Freedom of association
Freedom of association is a concept that refers to the right to peaceably assemble and petition a government. It is thought to be an effective way for people to join with similar greavances, and is meant to achieve some lawful political end. It also covers the right of individuals in society to meet and discuss issues together and to form groups that may undertake activities to achieve some purpose.There are important issues regarding American freedom of association, as guaranteed by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. These include controversial laws regarding demonstration permits, and instances of police brutality against protestors.
see also Jeremy Bentham, Anti-globalization movement
Freedom of association is a term popular in libertarian and anarchist literature. It is used to describe the concept of absolute freedom to live in a community whose values, laws, and culture are closely related to what one wants.
Most libertarians and anarchists believe that federally enforced laws and difficulty in moving between countries limits our freedom of association, and are in favor of autocracy and powerful local government.
Most people associate the concept of freedom of association with direct democracy and confederalism.
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