The right of businesses to self-determination overrides whatever right or duty the government may have to protect the individual. It is the duty of private businesses to protect employees from harm in the workplace. Government intrusion into the policies and rules of private businesses is justified only when individuals might be harmed. The right of individuals to breathe safe air supersedes the right of businesses to be free from government intrusion.
Current legislation that requires designated sections for smokers and nonsmokers on the premises of privately owned businesses is an intrusion into the private sector that cannot be justified. The fact that studies indicate that nonsmokers might be harmed by inhaling the smoke from others' cigarettes is not the main issue. Rather, the main issue concerns the government' s violation of the right of private businesses to determine their own policies and rules.
Which one of the following is a principle that, if accepted, could enable the conclusion to be properly drawn?