Computer Writing and Research Lab | University of Texas at Austin

Harm Principle and Helmet Laws

For anyone teaching Mill this summer: I never thought helmet laws would be a very interesting topic to discuss in relation to Mill's harm principle (or at all, really), but these days some of your students may be interested in the subject due to the recent helmet-less motorcycle crash that injured Ben Roethlisberger (the quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers). Although he was not at fault in the accident, he's been ticketed for not wearing a helmet.

Do it for the team...

Good idea, Jamie. I do think that some students might find access to the harm principle through issues surrounding Ben's crash. I was surprised how much both commentators as well players and coaches were talking about his throwing arm and if it was injured in the accident. The guy was still in critical condition and the big question was whether he was going to be okay to play in the fall. But one can clearly argue that, despite Ben's heralded free spirit, this independent choice certainly effects more than just the individual. Then again, maybe that's just my high school soccer coach still yelling at me not to do any number of things that might hurt the season.