Philosophy
Republicanism and the Political Ideal of Non-Domination
Quick fact
Republican thinkers like Quentin Skinner and Philip Pettit argue that even in a benign dictatorship, citizens are not free, because their choices depend on the ruler's goodwill.
Why this is interesting
You might think freedom means being left alone to do whatever you want. But what if you live under a kind master who never actually interferes with your choices—are you truly free?