JOHN  STUART MILL QUOTES

John Stuart Mill (1806 – 1873 was an eminent philosopher, theorist and economist, who is considered one of the principle philosophers of classical liberalism.

Apart from his profound thinking he is also known for his many memorable quotes. Many are as relevant now as they were 150 years ago. I have copied some of them below.

“The worth of the state in the long run is the worth of the individuals composing it.”

“That so few now dare to be eccentric marks the chief danger of the time.”

“In this age, the man who dares to think for himself and to act independently does a service to his race.”

“Conservatives are not necessarily stupid, but most stupid people are conservative.”

“A person may cause evil to others not only by his actions but by his inaction, and in either case he is justly accountable to them for the injury.”

“The only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilised community against his will is to prevent harm to others.”

“Originality is the one thing which unoriginal minds cannot feel the use of.”

I would appreciate your comments. My own personal definition of Liberalism is that it celebrates “the importance of the individual as an active member of a caring community.”