John Stuart Mill: 'Originality is the one thing which unoriginal minds cannot feel the use of.'

Originality is the one thing which unoriginal minds cannot feel the use of.

In his quote, "Originality is the one thing which unoriginal minds cannot feel the use of," John Stuart Mill highlights the significance of originality and its lack of appeal to unoriginal minds. The quote suggests that those who lack originality, or creativity, fail to recognize its value and purpose. This straightforward interpretation emphasizes the importance of originality as a quality that sets individuals apart and drives innovation. However, delving deeper into this concept, we can introduce the philosophical concept of existentialism and explore how it relates to Mill's assertion.Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought that emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, delves into the individual's subjective experience and the search for meaning and purpose in life. It emphasizes the importance of personal choice, responsibility, and authenticity. When we apply this concept to the quote by John Stuart Mill, we can draw fascinating comparisons and contrasts.Existentialism emphasizes the individual's freedom to create their own meaning and purpose in life. It encourages a rejection of societal expectations and the search for one's unique path. This aligns with the idea of originality as the one thing that unoriginal minds cannot understand. Individuals who adhere to societal norms and fail to think outside the box may find it challenging to comprehend the value of originality and its potential for personal growth and fulfillment.Moreover, the existentialist idea of authenticity connects with the concept of originality. Authenticity refers to living in accordance with one's true self, free from external influences and expectations. In this context, originality becomes a tool for expressing one's authentic voice, ideas, and creativity. Those who lack originality may struggle to tap into their authenticity, as they are more likely to conform and imitate rather than explore their unique perspectives and creative potentials.On the contrast, some may argue that originality is not as crucial as Mill suggests. They may contend that there is value in building upon existing ideas and refining them rather than constantly striving for completely original concepts. While this viewpoint has merit, it should not undermine the significance of originality itself. Originality has played a pivotal role in transforming various fields, including art, science, and technology. Many groundbreaking discoveries and revolutionary artistic movements were sparked by original and divergent thinking.Furthermore, even within the realm of building upon existing ideas, originality remains essential. It allows individuals to bring fresh perspectives, innovative approaches, and unique insights to the table. Without originality, progress would stagnate, and human endeavors might lack the transformative and mind-expanding experiences that drive society forward.Returning to Mill's quote, we can now appreciate its relevance and profundity in light of the existentialist ideas discussed. It reminds us that originality is not merely valued for its own sake but is intimately linked to the individual's self-discovery, fulfillment, and contribution to the world. Originality connects us with our true selves, helps us navigate our existential journey, and enables us to leave a lasting impact on society.In conclusion, John Stuart Mill's quote, "Originality is the one thing which unoriginal minds cannot feel the use of," encapsulates the importance of originality in personal growth, intellectual progress, and societal development. When viewed through the lens of existentialism, this quote gains further depth, highlighting the connection between originality and authenticity as crucial components of human existence. Ultimately, embracing originality allows individuals to discover their unique voice, contribute to the world with fresh perspectives, and fulfill their existential longing for meaning and purpose.