Mill worries that these pressures can lead to self-censorship, as people avoid expressing controversial opinions out of fear of being labeled immoral or heretical.

This suppression stifles intellectual growth and denies society the opportunity to benefit from ideas that could combine with existing beliefs to create better outcomes.

Mill argues that, while freedom of expression is crucial, views should not be protected by law from criticism. Instead, society should value the right to freely express, share, and discuss opinions, even if the public disapproves of how those opinions are presented.