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Single Idea 7212

[filed under theme 24. Political Theory / A. Basis of a State / 3. Natural Values / a. Natural freedom ]

Full Idea

Over himself, over his own body and mind, the individual is sovereign.

Gist of Idea

Individuals have sovereignty over their own bodies and minds

Source

John Stuart Mill (On Liberty [1857], Ch.1)

Book Ref

Mill,John Stuart: 'Utilitarianism (including On Liberty etc)', ed/tr. Warnock,Mary [Fontana 1962], p.135


A Reaction

If I should not even think about evil deeds, then neither should you. I would prevent you if I could. I would prevent you from drinking yourself to death, if I could. It is just that intrusions into private lives leads to greater trouble.


The 8 ideas with the same theme [freedoms implied merely by being human]:

Only self-knowledge can liberate us [Spinoza, by MacIntyre]
In nature men can dispose of possessions and their persons in any way that is possible [Locke]
If men are born free, are women born slaves? [Astell]
A savage can steal fruit or a home, but there is no means of achieving obedience [Rousseau]
Man is born free, and he is everywhere in chains [Rousseau]
No man has any natural authority over his fellows [Rousseau]
Individuals have sovereignty over their own bodies and minds [Mill]
I am naturally free if I am not tied to anyone by a contract [MacIntyre]