Wilderness State Reading Recommendations

Astrid made Pippi Longstocking as a symbol of personal freedom because she represents a freedom from social norms, an independence from authorities, and a courage to be oneself without compromise. She encourages readers to consider freedom as a valuable part of being human and to appreciate their own individuality.

Soren Kierkegaard believed in the driving force of the free individual through his concept of self-determination and choice. He emphasized that humans are responsible for choosing and defining their own existence, independent of external influences or determinism. 

Jean-Jacques Rousseau is considered a forefather of the free individual due to his ideas about natural rights and freedom of the individual. Rousseau argued that in its natural state, humanity is free and unrestricted by societal norms and conventions. He believed that society and its laws could restrict human freedom and natural rights, which he criticized in his work "The Social Contract."

Simone de Beauvoir's anti-authoritarian philosophy centers around existentialism and feminism, emphasizing individual freedom and autonomy. She critiques traditional authority structures that limit personal development and self-expression, advocating for individuals to define their own existence and resist societal expectations and norms that oppress or restrict them.

Nietzsche's philosophy exalts the free-spirited individual who strives for self-mastery, creativity, and authenticity, while rejecting the dominance of external authorities that seek to constrain personal freedom and potential. His work continues to inspire discussions on personal autonomy, ethical individualism, and the critique of authoritarianism in various forms.