Tag: John Stuart Mill

The most cogent reason for restricting the interference of government is the great evil of adding unnecessarily to its power.

The only power deserving the name is that of masses, and of governments while they make themselves the organ of the tendencies and instincts of masses.

The general tendency of things throughout the world is to render mediocrity the ascendant power among mankind.

The only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others. His own good, either physical or moral, is not sufficient warrant.

If all mankind minus one were of one opinion, mankind would be no more justified in silencing that one person than he, if he had the power, would be justified in silencing mankind.