David, I agree with your view in the sense that there are few absolutes these days, and precedents are important.

JM, the general notion of freedom doesn't change but its meaning depends on what you think of your circumstances and where you live.

Freedom to the majority of Iraquis or those in poverty or on the other side of a presidential veto may consider sovereignty, independence and self-determination differently.

Democratic societies struggle continually to balance values in the name of freedom. It's no easy job i.e. gun control, same-sex marriage, religion in schools.