"...the sole end for which mankind are warranted, individually or
collectively, in interfering with the liberty of action of any of their
number, is self-protection. The only purpose for which power can be
rightfully exercised over any member of a civilised community, against
his will, is to prevent harm to others. His own good, either physical or
moral, is not sufficient warrant. He cannot rightfully be compelled to
do or forbear because it will be better for him to do so, because it
will make him happier, because, in the opinion of others, to do so would
be wise, or even right...The only part of the conduct of anyone, for
which he is amenable to society, is that which concerns others. In the
part which merely concerns himself, his independence is, of right,
absolute. Over himself, over his own body and mind, the individual is
sovereign."
-John Stuart Mill