Single Idea 23522

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / D. Ideologies / 6. Liberalism / a. Liberalism basics]

Full Idea

In an organised society it is impossible to identify classes of actions which harm no one, or no one but the individual who does them.

Gist of Idea

In an organised society all actions have some effect on other people

Source

H.L.A. Hart (Law,Liberty and Morality [1963], I 'Enforcement')

Book Reference

Hart,H.L.A.: 'Law,Liberty and Morality' [OUP 1968], p.5


A Reaction

This is attributed to 'some critics' of Mill. I agree with this. The idea that actions performed behind close doors never come to influence social life is an illusion, held by people whose quest for freedom is selfish.

Related Idea

Idea 7211 Prevention of harm to others is the only justification for exercising power over people [Mill]