"On Liberty" and "The Doctrine of Liberty in Its Application to Morals"

1. In his article, “The Doctrine of Liberty in Its Application to Morals”, James Fitzjames Stephen seems to disagree with the arguments John Stuart Mill makes in his own book “On Liberty”. However, at one point Mill says, “If any one does an act hurtful to others, there is a prima facie for punishing him, by law, or where legal penalties are not safely applicable, by general disapprobation” (chapter 1, page 7). And in his own article, Stephen says, “Society has at its disposal two great instruments by which vice may be prevented and virtue promoted – namely, law and public opinion” (page 272). Although their views on limits of power and expressing opinions to one another differ, they seem to agree, at least somewhat, in the sanctions of society. Either the law or the general public views will provide a punishment for a crime or bad action. Stephen only includes what he disagrees with Mills in his article but it seem they may agree on some things.

2. I agree with James Fitzjames Stephen when he says, “People form and express their opinions on each other, which, collectively, form public opinion, for a thousand reasons; to amuse themselves; for the sake of something to talk about; to gratify this or that momentary feeling…” (page 277). In contrast, John Stuart Mills says, “It is the duty of the government, and of individuals, to form the truest opinions they can; to form them carefully, and never impose them upon other unless they are quite sure of being right” (chapter 2, page 2). I disagree with this statement that Mills makes. I think that when people share their personal opinions and hear others’ opinions as well they become more informed and gain a better understanding on the topic at hand. I do not think people should only share their opinions with others if they are sure they are right. I agree with Stephen that people share opinions with others for a variety of reasons. This is the way it should be so that people are more informed and hear views from a variety of people. A person does not have to force his opinion on another; he can just share it so that others are able to hear another view on the issue.