arguments against intervention to protect people from own mistakes (paternalism)

Paternalism is the belief that it is acceptable for the state to limit people’s freedom in order to protect them from their own mistakes. Intervention to protect people from their own mistakes is a form of paternalism and so, there are several arguments against such intervention. First, it could be argued that paternalistic intervention limits individuals’ personal autonomy. It assumes that the state knows better than the individual what is best for them and denies them the right to make decisions regarding their own lives. Second, paternalism could be said to be paternalistic in itself as it is based on the assumption that people are not capable of making wise decisions and so, need to be protected from themselves. This could be seen as being both patronising and demeaning. Third, intervening in people’s lives could have a chilling effect, particularly if the government is seen as having a heavy-handed approach when it comes to interventions. This could lead people to avoid taking risks due to a fear of being punished should their decision turn out to be unwise. Finally, it could be argued that paternalistic interventions are a form of control as they limit people’s options and choices and force them to do what is deemed to be in their best interest. This could be seen as a violation of people’s right to choose their own paths.