The only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised

Hearken, O children of reflection, to the profound counsel of John Stuart Mill, who spoke of the just limits of power in a civilized society. He declares that the only rightful exercise of authority over another, against his will, is that which prevents harm to others. Beyond this, the use of power to shape a man’s own good—whether physical or moral—cannot be justified. Here lies a teaching for the ages: liberty is sacred, and the restraint of one’s fellow must be measured, precise, and guided by justice, not by paternalistic desire.

The origin of this reflection is found in Mill’s seminal work, On Liberty, written in the mid-nineteenth century, a time when industrial, social, and political transformations demanded new conceptions of freedom and authority. Mill observed that governments, societies, and leaders often acted under the pretext of safeguarding individuals from themselves, imposing restrictions justified by supposed moral or physical benefit. He argued that such interference, though well-intentioned, erodes autonomy and suppresses the growth of character and reason.

The meaning of this aphorism is enduring and profound: liberty exists not merely as a privilege, but as a moral principle. A man’s freedom cannot be curtailed merely to advance his own welfare, for to do so is to deny the essential dignity of choice and judgment. Only when one’s actions threaten the safety, rights, or well-being of others does the use of power become just. In this, Mill provides a compass for governance, social interaction, and ethical reflection, reminding all that restraint of liberty carries grave responsibility.

History illuminates Mill’s teaching with clarity. Consider the abolition of slavery in the 19th century. Governments intervened to prevent the harm inflicted upon countless individuals, justifying the exercise of power against the will of the oppressors. Yet in other instances, rulers imposed laws “for the good” of their citizens—such as restricting personal habits or expression—which often stifled innovation, thought, and character without preventing harm to others. Mill’s principle draws a line between legitimate authority and overreach.

Moreover, this wisdom applies beyond politics to daily human relations. Parents, teachers, and leaders are often tempted to enforce behavior “for the good” of another. Mill teaches that guidance must be exercised with discernment, allowing autonomy unless the actions in question endanger others. True moral and civic education is not coercion, but the cultivation of judgment, empathy, and reason, safeguarding liberty while protecting society.

O generations yet to come, take this counsel into your hearts: power must be wielded with justice, limited by principle, and never in the name of paternal concern alone. Intervene only to prevent harm, and respect the sacred domain of choice and conscience. For it is in the balance of freedom and responsibility that a civilized community endures, and that the light of human dignity and wisdom shines undimmed across the ages.