Freedom Quote by Milton Friedman
![“John Stuart Mill, 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… [T]he only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against his…” quote by Milton Friedman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a2c/milton-friedman-616_freedom_john-stuart-mill-the-sole-end-for-which_2682277.jpg)
““John Stuart Mill, 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… [T]he 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… The only part of the conduct of any one, 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.2””
About This Quote
Source Book: Capitalism and Freedom by Milton Friedman, 1962
The only justified reason for society to limit individual liberty is to prevent harm to others; personal choices that affect only oneself are beyond societal authority.
In simple terms: Society may only restrict actions that harm others, not personal choices.
Key Takeaway
Protect others, respect personal sovereignty.
Themes
liberty
harm principle
individual rights
societal limits
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
concerned
Type
philosophical
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- legal frameworks
- personal decision making
- community standards
- public health
Key Concepts
John Stuart Mill
harm principle
individual sovereignty
Questions to Reflect On
- When should personal freedom be limited for public safety?
- How do we define “harm” in modern societies?
A Different Perspective
Balancing collective safety with personal freedom can be contentious.
