Liberty, Equality, Fraternity

past, present, future

Abstract

This paper shows that the triad liberty, equality and fraternity appeared gradually in the evolution of humanity. Freedom was the first to become a human yearning, considering both its exterior and interior (free will) aspects. It is shown how the latter only makes sense from a spiritual point of view, and the question of following social laws in freedom is addressed. Equality is being developed today in the form of human rights, and its origin is shown in the perception of other people’s selves, which leads to universalism and respect for other people. Fraternity or solidarity existed in ancient times in a community form; its universal form appeared with the Christ and has not yet become a sense felt by general people. This is apparent in the fact that there are no general laws obliging people to help each other. Freedom and equality were given to humankind as a grace; fraternity must be developed in consciousness, as self-education, starting from the knowledge of the spiritual organization of the human being. Its development is one of humanity’s missions.