"A person may cause evil to others not only by his actions but by his inaction, and in either case he is justly accountable to them for the injury"
- John Stuart Mill
About this Quote
This quote by John Stuart Mill recommends that an individual can be held liable for the damage they cause to others, not only through their actions, however likewise through their inaction. Mill is suggesting that a person can be delegated the damage they cause to others, even if they do not actively do anything to trigger it. This might include not doing something about it to prevent damage, or not taking action to help somebody in need. Mill is emphasizing that an individual needs to be held responsible for the harm they trigger, no matter whether it is through their actions or their inactiveness. This quote highlights the significance of taking responsibility for our actions and inactions, and the effects they can have on others.
About the Author