This quote suggests that true freedom comes not from doing whatever one wants, but from living under the guidance of reason and making choices based on informed decisions. It implies that freedom is not about absence of constraints but about being able to choose wisely and rationally.

The ‘free consent’ part of the quote suggests that we are not truly free unless we willingly choose to live by reason. It’s not about being forced or coerced into a certain way of thinking or behaving, but about making a conscious choice to use reason as a guide.

In the context of today’s world, this quote can be applied in many ways. For example, in the realm of politics, it suggests that a truly free society is one where citizens make informed choices based on reason and not driven by emotions, misinformation or manipulation.

In terms of personal development, it implies that to achieve personal freedom, one needs to make decisions based on rational thinking and self-awareness. This could mean not being swayed by societal pressures or expectations, not acting on impulse or emotion without careful thought, and not letting irrational fears or beliefs dictate one’s choices.

In essence, the quote suggests that true freedom lies in the ability to think critically, to make informed decisions, and to take responsibility for one’s own life. It’s about being the master of one’s own mind, rather than being controlled by external forces or internal impulses.