The time appears to me to have come when it is the duty of all to make their dissent from religion known

The time appears to me to have come when it is the duty of all to make their dissent from religion known

John Stuart Mill, a prominent philosopher and advocate for individual liberty, famously argued for the importance of freedom of thought and expression in his work "On Liberty." In this work, Mill asserts that individuals should have the right to express their dissenting opinions, even if they go against prevailing societal norms or beliefs. He believed that open and honest discussion of differing viewpoints is essential for the progress of society and the development of knowledge.

One of the key areas in which Mill advocated for dissent was in the realm of religion. He believed that individuals should be free to question and challenge religious beliefs, and that it is their duty to make their dissent known. Mill argued that blind adherence to religious dogma stifles intellectual growth and inhibits the search for truth. By encouraging individuals to openly express their doubts and skepticism about religion, Mill believed that society could move towards a more rational and enlightened understanding of the world.

Mill's call for dissent from religion was rooted in his belief in the importance of individual autonomy and intellectual independence. He believed that individuals should be free to form their own beliefs and opinions, rather than simply accepting the beliefs of others without question. By encouraging dissent from religion, Mill sought to empower individuals to think for themselves and to challenge the status quo.