Skip to content

And it is not difficult to show, by abundant instances…

“And it is not difficult to show, by abundant instances, that to extend the bounds of what may be called moral police, until it encroaches on the most unquestionably legitimate liberty of the individual, is one of the most universal of all human propensities.” quote by John Stuart Mill
Download Open image
“And it is not difficult to show, by abundant instances, that to extend the bounds of what may be called moral police, until it encroaches on the most unquestionably legitimate liberty of the individual, is one of the most universal of all human propensities.”

John Stuart Mill

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Expanding moral authority to restrict personal freedom is a common human tendency, often infringing on legitimate individual liberty.

In simple terms: People often try to control others, limiting true freedom.

Key Takeaway

Guard personal liberty against overreaching moral judgments.

Themes

freedom authority individual rights

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • workplace policies
  • social media regulation
  • family dynamics

Key Concepts

liberalism ethical boundaries

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does moral policing become unjust?
  • How can societies protect liberty while promoting ethics?
A Different Perspective

Balancing moral concerns with personal freedom is complex.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by John Stuart Mill

Explore all 524 John Stuart Mill quotes

More Bounds quotes

Browse all 1,649 Bounds quotes