A Collection of John Stuart Mill
A Collection of John Stuart Mill
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On Liberty; On Representative Government; Utilitarianism
John Stuart Mill’s philosophy is characterized by his commitment to individual liberty, democratic governance, and utilitarian ethics. Mill’s utilitarianism, which seeks to maximize overall happiness, builds on Jeremy Bentham’s ideas but adds a qualitative dimension, distinguishing between higher (intellectual and moral) and lower (physical) pleasures. In On Liberty, Mill argues for the protection of individual freedoms against societal and governmental interference, asserting that personal autonomy is essential for human development and progress. In On Representative Government, Mill supports a representative democracy that includes broad political participation and an informed electorate, crucial for balancing various interests and promoting the public good.