John Stuart Mill defended freedom of speech on several grounds in his influential work "On Liberty." Which of the following statements best encapsulates his position on this principle, and why?
1
According to Mill, freedom of speech should be unrestricted because all individuals naturally possess this right, and it could not be taken away under any circumstances.
2
Mill put forward that freedom of speech is essential for democracy since it permits the majority to freely voice their opinions, thereby supporting the 'tyranny of the majority'.
3
Mill argued that freedom of speech should be upheld as it allows for intellectual and moral advancement by facilitating the discovery of truth through vigorous debate and conflict of ideas.
4
Mill stated that freedom of speech should be limited only to philosophical discussions, whereas political or religious discussions should be curtailed for the sake of societal harmony.