"If all mankind minus one, were of one opinion, and only one person were of the contrary opinion, mankind would be no more justified in silencing that one person, than he, if he had the power, would be justified in silencing mankind." (p. 515)
What a powerful passage on the freedom of speech. It would be quite a boring society if everyone was forced to agree with the masses. Being an African American, I have to imagine the bondage I would still be living in if great men and women didn't stand up and speak for, not only the present generation but generations to come. Being a woman, I appreciate those men who cared enough and the women who were brave enough to fight for our rights to be equally educated and paid. Being a mom, I don't have to sit back with the masses and settle for failing and inferior schools. I can voice my opinion to the principal, and if that's not heard, then to the school board.
In today's society we are often afraid to speak out against unfair treatment or injustices. Have you ever witness a parent going to far with the "spare the rod" concept in public? What do we do?....We look around to see if anyone else notices the incident so we can feel a since of camaraderie before we speak out. Are we wondering to ourselves, if we are the only one who thinks the parent is being abusive, or if others will think we need to mind our business? This passage is letting us know that even if we are the only one opposed to a situation, we have just as much right to speak out as others do to remain silent.
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5 comments:
I enjoyed your personal examination of John Mill. As a political scientist Mill is definately the writer I connect with the most. Where would we all be if men like Mill failed to stand up against the mentality of the mob.
I agree with your understanding of Mill's work.We as human can appreciate his boldness to stand up for waht is right for all.
This was a good blog on Mills. I think that we miss out on so much by censoring people. Many problems could be avoided if we did not want try to turn a deaf ear to people who believe differently then we do.
Sherri,
Great quotation by Mill to serve as the focus of your post. Also, good comments and connections to your own experiences and observations.
I agree that the passage you quoted is extremely powerful and is well remembered. One of the most liberating things that I have learned from this exploration of English literature has been a reminder that life has always been tumultuous. It is so easy to look around at what is certainly a chaotic world and agree with the old adage that "the world is going to hell in a handbasket." The truth of the matter is that civilization and societies have always been required to struggle for gains. Mill in his wonderfully logical mannger helped remind me of this fact. Enjoyed the blog!
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