Theological and Sociological Perspectives on the Current Concept of Freedom

Abstract

In this study we aim to present the importance of freedom of religion and equality between different religions coexisting in the same country. We start with an etymological and theological analysis of the concept of freedom, stressing that man is born with certain inalienable rights, rights which any state or organization must recognize and protect. We highlight two important elements as being a suitable way for peaceful living between religions: respect and dialogue. We also refer to a letter of protest The New-Protestant Denominations and Human Rights in Romania, produced by six religious dissidents from Romania during the communist era, in the year of 1977, to show how liberty of religion was restricted during that time. Finally, we conclude that freedom is an important segment of life, which has to be protected by governments, by state and by organizations.