JOHN STUART MILL

Short Presentation of John Stuart Mill

Name: John Stuart Mill

Born: May 20, 1806, London, England

Died: May 8, 1873, Avignon, France

Field: Philosophy, Political Economy, Ethics

John Stuart Mill was one of the most influential British philosophers and political thinkers of the 19th century. He is best known for his work on liberty, utilitarianism, and individual rights. A child prodigy educated by his father, James Mill, and influenced by Jeremy Bentham, Mill became a leading voice in liberal thought.

In “On Liberty” (1859), Mill argued for the protection of individual freedom against the tyranny of the majority. He believed that people should be free to act however they wish—unless their actions harm others. His “harm principle” remains a cornerstone of liberal democratic theory.

In “Utilitarianism” (1863), he refined Bentham’s philosophy by emphasizing qualitative differences in pleasures, arguing that intellectual and moral pleasures are superior to mere physical satisfaction.

Mill also championed women’s rights, famously writing “The Subjection of Women” (1869), where he argued for legal and social equality between the sexes—an advanced position for his time.

His economic writings and support for political reforms made him a respected Member of Parliament and a tireless advocate for progress, reason, and social justice.

Legacy:

John Stuart Mill laid the philosophical foundation for modern liberalism and continues to influence political philosophy, ethics, and human rights discussions to this day.