Individual Liberty

Paper Summary:

An examination of individual liberty in John Stuart Mill's controversial essay, "On Liberty." In investigating this topic, the author looks at Mill's argument, the context of individual liberty in human history, the retention of elements in John Stuart Mill's philosophy and their practicability and democratic tyranny against individual liberty.

From the Paper:

"One of the prime spokesperson of liberalism in the 19th century, John Stuart Mill was a supporter of Utilitarianism in moral principles. He was specifically of the view that every individual in a society should perform his role in such a manner that he progresses maximum happiness for the majority of the people. Despite his belief in collective welfare, Stuart Mill was a strong advocate of individual liberty and rights. However, the simultaneous elements of individual liberty as well as the social well being in Stuart Mill's philosophy are considered controversial by most. Apart from this, he also promoted rights and liberty for women.
On Liberty was the most controversial essay of John Stuart Mill's works, stimulating much vehement manifestation of consent and censure. The composition was incited by the conversation between Mill and Harriet Taylor, his wife, in their letters on the subject that they lived in a society that was moving towards dearth of intrepid and gallant individuals."

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