According to the ‘harm principle’, who cannot be the subject of harm?Question 23Select one: A childOne’s selfAn adultAll of the above

The 'harm principle' is a concept primarily associated with the philosopher John Stuart Mill, particularly from his work "On Liberty." According to Mill, the harm principle states that the actions of individuals should only be limited to prevent harm to other individuals. In other words, individuals are free to act as they wish unless their actions cause harm to others.

To answer the question step by step:

1. Understanding the Harm Principle: The harm principle suggests that the only reason for exercising power over any member of a civilized community, against their will, is to prevent harm to others. This principle is about preventing harm to others, not about preventing harm to oneself.

2. Application to Different Subjects:

   • A child: According to the harm principle, a child can be the subject of harm. The principle would support intervention to prevent harm to a child.
   • One’s self: The harm principle does not apply to self-harm. Mill argues that individuals have the right to make decisions about their own lives, even if those decisions might harm themselves.
   • An adult: An adult can also be the subject of harm. The harm principle would support intervention to prevent harm to another adult.

3. Conclusion: The harm principle is concerned with preventing harm to others, not with preventing individuals from harming themselves. Therefore, the correct answer is:

One’s self

So, the correct option is: One’s self