B. Individualism in On Liberty
He argues for freedom of thought and discussion, freedom of action, and freedom of association.
Self regarding Actions: Society or government has no right to interfere with actions affecting only oneself, that is self-regarding actions: “ The object of this essay is to assert one very simple principle, as entitled to govern absolutely the dealings of society with the individual in the way of compulsion and control, whether the means used be physical force in the form of legal penalties, or the moral coercion of public opinion. That principle is that the sole end for which mankind are warranted, individually or collectively, in interfering with the liberty of action of any of their number, is self-protection. That 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 a sufficient warrant. He cannot rightfully be compelled to do or forbear because it will be better for him to do so, because it will make him happier, because in the opinions of others to do so would be wise or even right. These are good reasons for remonstrating with him, or reasoning with him, or persuading him, or entreating him, but not for compelling him, or visiting him with any evil in case he do otherwise. To justify that, the conduct from which it is desired to deter him must be calculated to produce evil to someone else. The only part of the conduct of anyone for which he is amenable to society is that which concerns others. In the part, which merely concerns himself, his independence is, of right absolute. Over himself, over his own body and mind, the individual is sovereign.” (On Liberty, ch. 1)
Mil opposes the stifling of the individual by government officials as well as by public opinion, the “tyranny of the majority” (whether the majority be a numerical majority or an influential minority accepted as the majority). In defending individual freedoms, he bases his arguments on “utility in the largest sense, grounded on the permanent interests of man as a progressive being.” (On Liberty, ch. I)
