Explain John Stuart Mill on individual liberty.

John Stuart Mill, a 19th-century British philosopher and economist, is renowned for his defense of individual liberty as articulated in his seminal work "On Liberty." Mill's conception of liberty revolves around the principle that individuals should be free to act and express themselves as they wish, provided their actions do not harm others. His arguments for individual liberty remain influential in political theory and continue to shape debates about the limits of government intervention and the protection of individual rights.

Mill contends that individual liberty is essential for human flourishing and the advancement of society. He argues that allowing individuals to pursue their own interests, opinions, and lifestyles fosters creativity, diversity, and innovation, leading to progress and social improvement. Mill asserts that society benefits from the free exchange of ideas and the competition of different perspectives, as it enables the discovery of truth and the correction of error.

Moreover, Mill emphasizes the importance of protecting minority rights and dissenting voices in a democratic society. He warns against the tyranny of the majority, arguing that even well-intentioned majorities can suppress minority opinions and stifle individual expression. Mill advocates for robust safeguards for individual liberty, including constitutional limits on government power and legal protections for freedom of speech, assembly, and association.

However, Mill also recognizes that individual liberty has limits, particularly when it infringes upon the rights and interests of others. He introduces the "harm principle," which asserts that the only justification for restricting individual liberty is to prevent harm to others. According to Mill, actions that only affect the individual's own well-being, such as personal beliefs, lifestyle choices, or self-regarding conduct, should be beyond the scope of government interference.

In summary, John Stuart Mill's defense of individual liberty is grounded in the belief that freedom is essential for human development, social progress, and the preservation of democracy. His arguments for protecting individual rights against state interference and majority tyranny continue to shape contemporary debates about civil liberties, human rights, and the proper limits of government authority. Mill's advocacy for individual liberty remains a cornerstone of liberal political philosophy and a guiding principle for democratic governance.