philosophy：Contemporary Moral Problems

1. Why does Mill say it is important to consider two different “branches” of argument regarding the suppression of an opinion?

 

2. What does Mill say is “assumed” by the person who wishes to suppress an opinion because they are sure it is false?

 

3. Why does Mill say that learning through experience is not enough?

 

4. Why does Mill support freedom of expression of even a false idea?

 

5. What is Mill’s point in criticizing the Christians of his day? Do you think that criticism (or something like it) is still accurate?

 

6. Many people support freedom of speech as long as the conversation remains polite or civil. Mill opposes using this as a restriction (“temperate” is his word). What is his argument? Do you think he has a good point?