Acting Quote by John Stuart Mill
“To think that because those who wield power in society wield in the end that of government, therefore it is of no use to attempt to influence the constitution of the government by acting on opinion, is to forget that opinion is itself one of the greatest active social forces. One person with a belief is a social power equal to ninety-nine who have only interests.”
About This Quote
Source Book: On Liberty, John Stuart Mill, 1859
Society’s power lies not only in formal authority but also in public opinion, which can drive change more effectively than institutions.
In simple terms: Opinion can be a powerful social force.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and shape public opinion.
Themes
politics
influence
public opinion
social power
Mood
thoughtful
determined
Type
political
inspirational
When to use this quote
- campaigning
- grassroots activism
- media strategy
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
democracy
social dynamics
collective belief
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you mobilize public opinion for change?
- What limits opinion’s power?
A Different Perspective
Opinion alone may lack enforcement mechanisms without institutional support.
![“[For people] to refuse a hearing to an opinion, because they are sure that it is false, is to assume that their certainty is the same thing as absolute certainty. All silencing of discussion is an assumption of infallibility.” quote by John Stuart Mill](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c53/john-stuart-mill-477_doubt_for-people-to-refuse-a-hearing-to-an-opi_63929.jpg)
