This parallels the thinkers of the Enlightenment: that reason should be used to discover rational answers as well as our own happiness. .
Despite his belief that happiness is the primary concern for an individual, Mill does acknowledge that differences in opinion exist within society. However, he believes that each opinion contains a portion of truth, and collectively, opinions can be used towards reaching a truth that can be beneficial to all of mankind. Mill argues that, "Truth, the great practical concerns of life, must be made the rough process of a struggle between combatants fighting under hostile banners" (Mills, 46). This implies, that yes there will be opinions that differ in life, but together they can be used to polish off the rough edges of the truth. The opinion that is discredited by the public can be used as evidence to further support the other opinion that is deemed correct by society. Mill supports this notion when he writes:.
"When there are persons to be found who form an exception to the apparent unanimity of the world on any subject, even if the world is right, it is always probable that dissentients have something worth hearing to say for themselves, and that the truth would lose something by their silence" (Mills, 46).
Mill believes the ultimate concern in life is to be happy. Once people are happy, and adhering to laws of equality, society will be able to progress towards a positive future. It is important to note, however, that Mill did make a distinction between opinions and actions. He believed that one's actions should never impede danger on another person's life. Mill stresses that an individual "carry his own opinion into practice at his own cost" and that man, "must not make himself a nuisance to other people" (53). Mill believes that opinions will bring progress and a stronger truth, but he also warns that hostile attempts at exercising one's opinion can interfere with the advancement of mankind.
