Açıklama
The distinction between actions that affect only the person performing them and actions that affect the interests of others. The application of the harm principle depends upon maintaining this distinction, as only in matters that affect others may society legitimately “call an individual to account.” Choices that concern only the individual—such as lifestyle decisions or personal beliefs—cannot be coercively prevented, even in the face of society’s moral disapproval. By contrast, actions that carry a risk of harming others may, within a utilitarian framework, justify legal or social interventio.