The U.K. Smoking Ban Is Illiberal

6 hours ago

The author opposes the U.K.'s smoking ban as illiberal, arguing it violates bodily autonomy and natural rights despite personal distaste for cigarettes.
The ban permanently prohibits tobacco sales to those born in 2009 or later, aiming for a smoke-free generation but may lead to black markets and age discrimination.
Critics highlight the law's paternalistic flaw: the state should not stop adults from self-harm, as liberty requires autonomy over personal choices, even unhealthy ones.
The author emphasizes pluralistic tolerance, citing examples like David Hockney to argue that prioritizing longevity over personal freedom is life-denying and authoritarian.
The ban sets a dangerous precedent, potentially expanding to other behaviors, undermining liberal principles and treating state judgments as superior to individual choice.

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