Having the ability to
choose as one wishes, with no external
obstacles or
restrictions was proposed by philosopher
Isaiah Berlin, who concentrated on "Two Concepts of
Liberty". Philosopher
John Stuart Mill (author of "On Liberty") might add that as long as we
protect ourselves and do not
infringe on others'
crucial human rights (which define our freedom) we have true negative
freedom.
See also:
positive freedom for Berlin's other
concept of liberty