Contributions to the mathematical theory of human relations. IV

An attempt is made to define and treat analytically the concept of individual freedom in a society. Two possible definitions are briefly discussed. One takes as a measure of freedom the ratio (w₀ –w)w₀, wherew₀ is the maximum amount of work that a person can physically perform per unit time andw is the amount of work which he has actually to perform per unit time in a given society. The other definition takes as a measure of freedom that fraction of an individual's time during which he can indulge in any activity of his own choice without interfering with other individuals. Expressions are derived by way of illustration, giving the individual freedom in terms of other parameters which characterize the social structure.