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By Philosopher Michael Alan Prestwood

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Harm Principle

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By Michael Alan Prestwood

Sun 9 Jun 2024
Published 2 years ago.
Updated 6 months ago.
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“Causing no harm” is an aspiration, not a fantasy. Life brings tradeoffs. Even good choices can carry costs. The ethical person does not pretend harm never happens; they notice it, reduce it, justify it when necessary, and stay willing to recalibrate.

Harm Principle

Cause no harm.
In "On Liberty," pub. 1859.

30 Phil, Chapter 29, Mill, Touchstone 74: Harm Principle.

You’re free to do what you want, as long as you don’t harm others. It delineates between self-regarding and other-regarding actions as a basis for when societal intervention is justified. Self-regarding actions are those that primarily affect the individual who undertakes them. Other-regarding actions have broader social consequences, impacting others. 

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Michael Alan Prestwood
Natural Philosopher & Author
Prestwood explores science-first philosophy, with particular attention to the convergence of disciplines. Drawing on his TST Philosophy, his work emphasizes rational inquiry grounded in empirical observation while engaging questions at the edges of established knowledge. With TouchstoneTruth positioned as a living touchstone, this work aims to contribute reliable, evolving analysis in an emerging AI era where the credibility of information is increasingly contested.
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October 2026
Column Research….
1. Timeline Story
The Great Quaker Debates!
2. Linked Quote
“All men are prone to differ. It is no new thing in all former ages, in all parts. Each party is most right in his own eyes.”
3. Science FAQ »
Do facts actually change minds?
4. Philosophy FAQ »
When does persuasion become manipulation?
5. Critical Thinking FAQ »
How can you tell when a debate has stopped being productive?
6. History FAQ!
What is the history of debate?
Bonus Deep-Dive Article
Roger Williams Biography and Dedication to the Freedom of Conscience

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