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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
2 pages in length. John Stuart Mill had the best in mind for all when he offered up his harm principle. The writer discusses that by recognizing the inherently negative aspects associated with seemingly innocent actions, the philosopher was able to see beyond the obvious. No bibliography.
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2 pages (~225 words per page)
File: LM1_TLCMills.doc
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to see beyond the obvious. That his harm principle was created as a means by which to avoid potentially damaging situations, Mills desire was to alert the masses as
to the underlying consequences of individual actions. A prime example of this concept is the notion of paying taxes. What harm is done if one person chooses to
disobey the law and not file his return for one, two or even ten years? The likelihood of his actions harmfully influencing anyone besides himself are quite slim; however,
if millions of people adopted that same attitude - thinking all along that they were the only ones doing so - there would ultimately be no tax money to support
societys needs. Living within a community atmosphere, Mill contended, requires a community-minded demeanor. This same argument holds true for other aspects of life, including military participation and standing
witness to a trial. Mills harm principle stresses the fact that the ethical and moral obligations of a singular action do not always openly demonstrate their synergistic potentialities. Mills
harm principle addresses utilitarianism inasmuch as it speaks to the bigger picture; in other words, utilitarianism purports to maintain its existence for the benefit of all concerned. Utilitarianism can
be viewed as a doctrine where the useful is good and the determining consideration of right conduct should be the usefulness of its consequences. In other words, this is
a theory where the aim of action should be the largest possible balance of pleasure over pain, or the greatest happiness of the greatest number. The greatest good for
the greatest number of people is emphasized within a utilitarian society. The harm that comes to those who are in no way associated with a particular action is the
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