People often ask that according to liberalism, if an individual becomes completely free in their decisions, would they also be free to harm others? The answer to this question is given by John Stuart Mill in his book “On Liberty” in the following manner, which is called the HARM PRINCIPLE:
“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. The only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilised community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others.”
Core Argument : Mill’s argument was that every individual has the complete right to live their life and make their own decisions, but this freedom will remain valid as long as their actions do not harm the rights, liberty, or welfare of another individual. If someone harms others, then the state or society can intervene and impose restrictions on them.This means an individual has the right to live according to their own will, but with the condition that their freedom does not deprive someone else of their freedom.(Negation of one’s both positive or negative liberty) Also according to this principle, homosexuality should not be criminalized – as private consensual relationships between adults do not cause harm to others and therefore should remain outside the scope of state interference.
