The French idea of freedom is different from the English, and although I don't know for sure, I think it comes down to a difference in the origins of common law. An Englishman is (in theory at least) born free, and is constrained only by the specific rules set by the state and by whatever contract he might enter into with his fellow man. I could be wrong but I think the French laws of Napoleonic origin specify that nothing is permitted unless specifically authorised. For sure, if you are doing, or trying to do, something that is "non autorisé", you could be in trouble.
On the equality front, the French are pretty hot, especially on sexual equality. Applicants for citizenship are quizzed on their views, and if you express an opinion that differs from the values of the republic, you might find your application turned down. I have no insight into comparisons of the equality between or among the elite and the plebs, but England is looking pretty poor on this front, from where I'm sitting.
On the solidarity front, I find the French to be nothing short of impressive. There are many examples I could cite, but the most recent one involved our local school. Part of one of its walls fell down, and much of the rest of it was unsafe. An email went out to local residents calling for volunteers to help demolish the unsafe part of the wall, since local taxes weren't up to the expense. There must have been thirty people there from a village of 150 or thereabouts, which I reckon was good going. Everyone did their part, Christian was there with his big tractor; you put the biggest stones in the front scoop and he made a big heap of them farther up the road out of the way. I brought a pick-axe, cold chisel and lump hammer, plus some pastries left over from the gîte. Others provided coffee.
I forgot to take a camera with me, so all I have is a picture of the wall not being there, (there it is - gone!) and a big heap of stones. (More are up the road)
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