Philosophy 101
Study Questions, Mill's "Social Liberty" (from On Liberty)


1.  What does Mill mean by "the tyranny of the majority" (4)?  Why does he think it is a particularly
       real threat in European societies of his time?

2.  Mill introduces the thesis of the essay--often called the "principle of harm"--concerning the
        extent to which government is justified in interfering with individual liberty.  What is the main
        thesis he will defend on this matter?

3.  Consider the main principle he sets out regarding the limits of government interference with
         individual liberty.  Do you find this principle plausible?  Can you think of any counter-
          examples--situations in which the principle would wrongly rule out interference with
          someone's liberty?

4.  Mill argues that, concerning any opinion that the majority may want to suppress, the opinion
       might be true.  How does he develop this argument?  What objections does he consider
       against this argument, and how does he respond to them?

5.  Mill argues that society benefits from the free expression even of false opinions.  In what
       ways does he think society benefits?  In particular, what dangers does he think arise for
       opinions that are unchallenged?  What objections does he consider against his main
       argument, and how does he respond?

6.  Consider the overall case that Mill has made for liberty of thought and opinion.  Do you
       see any potential problems with his view or his arguments?  Do you agree that liberty
       of thought and opinion should be as unrestricted as Mill suggests?