So let me get this right.  It seems we define freedom, and the amount of freedom we enjoy, now by how deregulated an economy is.  That is the story I seem to be getting.  We can't nationalize the banks?  Why?  Because then their ability to operate at a profit will be hindered and by extension their 'freedom'...it is Socialism don't you know.  And we know that Socialism is what Russia had, right?  Probably not but that doesn't stop it from being said.  Can't have public financed health care.  It is un-American if profit can't be made off of it...more socialism.  Any talk of regulation or higher taxes on highly wealthy individuals...socialism and the loss of the American Way.  We measure the freedom in other countries by how open the markets are.  Not by having a freely elected government, nor their adherence to civil rights, nor of their observance of the Rule of Law.  As long as they are part of the 'global marketplace' that represents freedom.  And the more deregulated their economy is the freer they are. 

When did the 'Freedom' train go off the tracks?