Economic Independence Through Knowledge Work

Sor Juana's position at the Viceroy's court and her income from writing and teaching provided her a degree of economic independence unusual for colonial women. Libertarian justice recognizes that freedom requires economic autonomy—the ability to support oneself through one's own labor without coercion or dependence on others' charity. Knowledge work, intellectual contribution, and creative production generate real economic value that should flow to the creator. Sor Juana's earnings from her writings and intellectual services demonstrate that the mind produces wealth; protecting this pathway to independence is essential to libertarian justice. Economic freedom depends on individuals' right to control and benefit from their own productive capacity.