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Daily Archives: September 30, 2009

Free to Err <- J.S. Mill


On-LibertyThat 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.

John Stewart Mill, On Liberty ch. 1 (1859)

 
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Posted by on September 30, 2009 in Politics, society

 

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Strive against Oppression


I can't believe we still have to protest this crapThe best Jihad
is to speak a just word
to an unjust ruler.

Mishkat al-Masabih, quoting Muhammad.

 
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Posted by on September 30, 2009 in Foreign Policy, Politics

 

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