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Evil Quote by John Stuart Mill

“The most cogent reason for restricting the interference of government is the great evil of adding unnecessarily to its power.” quote by John Stuart Mill
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“The most cogent reason for restricting the interference of government is the great evil of adding unnecessarily to its power.”

John Stuart Mill

About This Quote

Source Essay: On Liberty, 1859, John Stuart Mill, 1859

Government power should be limited because expanding it unnecessarily leads to greater evil, emphasizing the danger of excessive state control.

In simple terms: Limit government power to avoid greater harm.

Key Takeaway

Guard against unnecessary expansion of authority.

Themes

freedom government power political philosophy

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • legislation
  • civil rights activism
  • public policy debates
  • education curricula

Key Concepts

liberalism checks and balances

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is government intervention justified?
  • How can citizens monitor power growth?
A Different Perspective

Some interference may be necessary for public safety.

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