Assess the View that Freedom of Action Leads to Happiness for the Individual
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Mill not only believed in giving freedom of thought and speech to people, but also freedom of action. By freedom of action we mean giving people the right to actually do whatever it is they like, that is, so long as they stick to the guidelines which Mill puts forward. His primary guideline for freedom of action is the Harm Principle, which states that we are free to do as we like so long as we don't cause harm to others. This only applies to those whom Mill would deem capable of being individuals (which excludes children and those in the care of others). Mill also sets out another exception to people's freedom of action in the corn dealer example. This example expresses Mills view that peoples freedom should be restricted if it openly incites violence.
Mill first argues that with freedom of action those in our society who are capable of genius (originality) will be able to realise their full potential and develop new ideas and progress humanity. As a result the crowd will imitate the new ideas that are good, improving their lives and becoming happier. An example you could give for Mills argument are violent or controversial films. It is only due to the freedom given to filmmakers that such films can be made and a lot of people enjoy watching them...