“If all mankind but one were of the same opinion, mankind would be no more justified in silencing that person than he, if he had the power, would be justified in silencing humanity” ( Mill, 2002, pg.14) John Stuart Mill, a 19th century English philosopher, considered one of the most influential thinkers in the fields of social theory, political theory and political economy , had strong opinions about free speech. In the next quote, he states that if all of humanity had one opinion or action, and another individual had a different opinion, humanity would not be justified in silencing that individual just as that individual, if were given the power to do so, he would not be justified in silencing all of humanity. Mill's thesis is that every individual has value, meaning and power in their opinions and that we should not be the ones to prevent them from having the right to express their opinion. Their actions and who they are as people should not be silenced. In the spirit of the greater good of humanity and freedom of expression, one must have the right to freedom and free expression without being silenced and the right to one's freedom. John Stuart's most famous essay, On Liberty, was published in 1859. His father, James Mill, said to be a strict utilitarian, raised him. Mill had a difficult childhood; he had a nervous breakdown when he was 21 when we started questioning his beliefs. He later continued to struggle with the sense that utilitarianism was too emotionless and failed to capture or understand higher pleasures. Therefore, when On Freedom comes into play, this essay was created to broaden the meaning of utility and show that utilitarianism can in fact provide a strong advantage... middle of paper... having the freedom to make mistakes. and have discussions and debates in a healthy environment where others can learn from each other and be able to raise their voices without having to worry about being bullied. He strongly believed in having the freedom to develop one's personality and having the strength to make choices. Mills is only able to see progress in society if we enter a world of culture, free conformity and harm. We must have the right to free expression, to freedom and the right to freedom without fear of being threatened or of being silenced. It is because of these justifications that Mill believes that humanity would not be justified in silencing one individual just as that individual, if given the power to do so, would not be justified in silencing all of humanity. Through these actions, we as human beings will create the greatest good for humanity.