VOLUNTARY SLAVERY Meaning and
Definition
-
Voluntary slavery refers to a concept or practice in which a person willingly and consciously submits themselves to servitude or bondage without any external coercion or force. It typically involves individuals who make a deliberate choice to surrender their autonomy, freedom, and personal rights to another individual or authority voluntarily.
In this context, voluntary slavery often signifies a metaphorical or philosophical concept rather than an actual legal institution. It challenges the conventional understanding of slavery, which primarily denotes a system of forced labor, oppression, and human rights violations.
The ideology behind voluntary slavery lies within various philosophical, religious, or ideological beliefs that advocate for self-sacrifice, subjugation of will, or relinquishing personal freedom to attain a higher purpose or enlightenment. The individual who aspires to become a voluntarily enslaved person might do so in pursuit of spiritual fulfillment, personal growth, or becoming a disciple of a particular cause or master.
It is important to note that voluntary slavery is a complex and multilayered concept, often accompanied by moral and ethical debates. Critics argue that it may enable exploitation, manipulation, or abusive power dynamics, while proponents argue for the autonomy and agency of individuals to make such choices.
Overall, voluntary slavery involves the intentional act of surrendering personal freedom and autonomy, without external coercion, in pursuit of spiritual, ideological, or other non-traditional objectives.
Etymology of VOLUNTARY SLAVERY
The term "voluntary slavery" is a juxtaposition of two words with contrasting meanings.
The word "voluntary" originates from the Latin word "voluntarius", which means "of one's free will" or "done willingly". In English, it has been in use since the late 14th century and refers to an action or choice that is made willingly and without coercion.
On the other hand, "slavery" has its roots in the Old English word "sclav" (a person who is enslaved or captured), which was derived from the Medieval Latin word "sclavus" (a Slav, because Slavic people were commonly enslaved in parts of Europe during the Medieval period). Slavery, as an institution, has been present in human societies throughout history and refers to the condition of being owned by, or in servitude to, another person.
