Harm principle from "summary" of Utilitarianism and On Liberty by John Stuart Mill
The Harm Principle, as expounded by John Stuart Mill, posits that the only justification for interfering with an individual's liberty is to prevent harm to others. This principle asserts that each individual is the best judge of their own interests and that society should only step in when someone's actions pose a direct threat to someone else. In this way, the Harm Principle serves as a safeguard against tyranny and promotes personal autonomy. Mill argues that individuals should be free to pursue their own happiness as long as they do not harm others in the process. This means that society should not intervene simply because it disapproves of certain behaviors or finds them offensive. Instead, the focus should be on preventing tangible harm to individuals or society as a whole. By restricting interference to cases where harm is likely to occur, the Harm Principle allows for maximum personal freedom while still maintaining societal order. Furthermore, Mill emphasizes the importance of allowing for diverse opinions and behaviors within society. He believes that individuals should have the freedom to experiment with different ways of living and thinking, as long as they do not infringe upon the rights of others. This diversity of perspectives is essential for progress and intellectual growth, as it allows for the exchange of ideas and the discovery of new truths. The Harm Principle also recognizes the limitations of individual judgment and the need for some level of regulation within society. While individuals are generally best equipped to make decisions about their own lives, there are instances where external intervention is necessary to prevent harm. In these cases, the Harm Principle provides a clear standard for determining when such intervention is justified.- The Harm Principle serves as a guiding principle for balancing individual liberty with societal interests. It ensures that individuals are free to pursue their own happiness while also promoting the well-being of society as a whole. By focusing on the prevention of harm, the Harm Principle offers a practical and ethical framework for navigating the complexities of personal freedom and social responsibility.
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