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Quote#Politics & Power

The only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any…

Quote byJohn Stuart Mill · 1806–1873

Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: On Liberty (1859), Ch. 1: Introductory.

English (original)

The only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others. His own good, either physical or moral, is not a sufficient warrant.

— John Stuart Mill

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