True freedom is the capacity for acting according to one's true character, to be altogether one's self, to be self-determined and not subject to outside coercion.

In this quote, Corliss Lamont defines true freedom as the ability to act in alignment with one's true character and to fully express one's self without being subject to external influences. Lamont suggests that freedom is not just the absence of physical constraints, but the ability to make choices based on one’s inner values and desires, rather than being coerced or manipulated by outside forces. To him, self-determination is the essence of freedom, where individuals are able to live authentically and pursue their own paths in life.

Lamont’s perspective on freedom challenges the traditional view that it is simply about the absence of restrictions. He argues that real freedom is about being able to express and live in accordance with one’s true self, without the pressure to conform to societal norms or expectations. This highlights his belief in individual autonomy and the importance of being true to one's inner nature, rather than succumbing to external demands.

The idea of self-determination is central to this quote. Lamont emphasizes that true freedom involves the power to make decisions and shape one’s life according to personal beliefs and values, without being unduly influenced by external coercion. This perspective aligns with existentialist philosophies, which emphasize the importance of personal freedom and responsibility in the face of societal pressures.

Ultimately, Lamont’s quote reflects a profound understanding of freedom as not just a political or social condition, but a psychological and moral state. True freedom, according to Lamont, is about living authentically, guided by one’s inner self and free from external manipulation or control. It speaks to the deeper, more personal aspects of freedom that go beyond legal rights, focusing on the autonomy to shape one's life in alignment with one’s true identity.