Quote:
Originally Posted by newsbone  What then is the end result of the good of the individual if not the good of the community as a whole, everyone plays his part for the good of all at the end. |
I'd also add to this that no individual survives forever, whereas human civilization may well survive forever (or at least a very long time), and therefore it's important to think in the long term - past the life times of everyone living right now.
On the other hand, I think granting freedom to individuals (or individuals taking it, rather) increases creativity. And creativity - whether you're building something or just thinking of new ideas - requires freedom of choice (see my signature
). The creativity that comes from the individual ultimately leads to a better life for everyone.
It also just feels much better for most people to be free than to be violently forced into submission. That's something we also have to take into consideration.