Community Conversations: Article Discussion–‘Two Concepts of Liberty’ by Isiah Berlin

“To coerce a man is to deprive him of his freedom.” Since it first appeared, Berlin’s essay has had a profound influence in the West—defining the coercive approach of “positive freedom” as responsible for the terrors of the French and Soviet revolutions, Berlin recommends, instead, “negative freedom” or the warding off of intrusions on the individual liberties of others. Is Berlin correct in his recommendation? Pick up a copy and let’s discuss.

Community Conversations
The brand new Community Conversations initiative at The New York Public Library introduces a space for discussion on local topics that matter most to you. Local librarians at select branches will co-facilitate these dialogues with community organizations, inviting anyone and everyone to the table to share and listen. Let’s create a truly democratic space where we can connect together through meaningful dialogue! Learn more and browse all of our conversations online here.