Like wealth, or health, political freedom may simply be something that people don't value if they've always had it.

The quote by Anne Applebaum suggests that political freedom is often undervalued by those who have always had access to it, much like wealth or health. Applebaum is highlighting a common human tendency to take for granted things that are always available, particularly when those things are seen as foundational to one's way of life. She implies that people may only truly appreciate freedom when it is threatened or lost, just as individuals often realize the importance of good health or wealth only after experiencing a loss or a lack of them.

Applebaum’s statement points to the complacency that can arise when individuals live in a society where political freedoms are guaranteed and protected. People may not fully grasp the value of their democratic rights—such as the ability to vote, express opinions, or participate in free elections—if these rights are simply a part of their everyday experience. In this sense, freedom becomes a privilege rather than a conscious choice or a hard-won right, which can lead to a lack of appreciation for its significance.

The origin of this quote lies in Applebaum’s extensive work as a journalist and historian, particularly in her research on totalitarian regimes and the history of Eastern Europe. Applebaum’s writing often explores how societies transition between freedom and oppression, and how people adapt—or fail to adapt—to changes in their political environments. This quote reflects her belief that the value of freedom is often best understood in contrast to oppression.

In essence, Applebaum’s quote reminds us that political freedom, like other aspects of life that we often take for granted, requires active awareness and appreciation. It also serves as a warning that complacency can lead to a lack of vigilance, which in turn may allow freedoms to erode without recognition. Her words encourage individuals to reflect on the importance of democratic values and to remain mindful of the liberties that shape their society.