"Bert Schwitters’ newly released book, Liberating Liberty: Life, Liberty, Pursuit of Happiness and the Creator of Man, delves into the core principles underlying the United States’ foundation, as articulated in the Preamble to the Declaration of Independence. At its essence, Schwitters argues that the ultimate objective, or Telos, of the nation is the collective protection of unalienable rights, notably those to Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. These rights, as Schwitters posits, are not arbitrary but are inherently linked to divine intent, suggesting that they originate from a Creator — typically interpreted as the God of Genesis. This connection implies that true Happiness, referenced in the Declaration, transcends material wealth and is rooted in a form of Divine Happiness or "eudaimonia." As a result, the pursuit of Happiness necessitates an individual’s quest for oneness with their Creator, embodying the profound state of "I am."
Schwitters’ exploration goes far beyond a mere philosophical analysis; he constructs a comprehensive defense of Natural Law through a methodical examination of historical, philosophical, and theological texts. His approach is meticulously detailed, employing linguistic analysis across multiple languages including Hebrew, Greek, Latin, French, German, and English. This multi-faceted investigation draws on a wide spectrum of intellectual traditions from the likes of Aquinas, Augustine, and Plato to more contemporary thinkers like Mises and Rothbard. Importantly, Schwitters does not shy away from critiquing influential figures such as Hegel, Marx, and Nietzsche, suggesting a meticulous engagement with both classical and modern thought, thereby enriching his overall argument.
One of the cornerstones of Schwitters’ framework is his reliance on the thoughts of Eric Voegelin, a key figure in political philosophy whose influence is particularly evident in Schwitters’ discourse on Natural Law. Through this reliance, Schwitters not only bridges historical context with contemporary scholarship but also navigates the complexities of political systems and their moral bases. The breadth of sources employed illustrates Schwitters’ ambition: to synthesize various intellectual currents into a coherent narrative that reaffirms the principles of liberty and moral responsibility enshrined in the American ethos.
Describing Schwitters as a “renaissance man,” the book reflects his diverse expertise, spanning journalism, entrepreneurship, and broader humanities. His multifaceted background lends credibility to his arguments, as he weaves together insights from various fields — including health, nutrition, regulatory affairs, and political philosophy — to forge a robust defense of unalienable rights. Throughout the text, Schwitters’ adeptness as a communicator shines, making complex ideas accessible while maintaining a scholarly rigor that appeals to both lay readers and academics alike.
Readers drawn to Liberating Liberty will find the work not merely a philosophical treatise but also a personal reflection of Schwitters’ scholarly journey. His amicable interaction with those interested in exploring the themes of liberty, exemplified through personal exchanges with readers on platforms such as LRC, further enriches the narrative. This connection between author and audience enhances the reading experience, allowing for a transactional appreciation of the ideas presented in the text.
In conclusion, Liberating Liberty stands as a significant scholarly contribution that not only defends core principles of American freedom but also invites readers to reconsider their own pursuits of happiness and understanding of liberty. By framing the discourse around divine intent and Natural Law while drawing on a vast array of intellectual resources, Schwitters elevates the conversation surrounding these enduring values. This book can be seen as a compelling call to reconnect with the original intentions of the nation’s founders, emphasizing that true happiness is rooted in a just relationship with the Creator, ultimately reflecting the book’s broader moral and philosophical ambitions."
