Progress in Philosophy

Paper Summary:

Philosophers throughout history have looked at progress within individuals and society differently. In this essay, the views of two of the most renowned philosophers are addressed. John Stuart Mill and Niccolo Machiavelli both have opinions that describe how the individual should be governed and what liberty should be given to them. Though only Mill describes in his writings that progress is indeed possible, this paper interprets Machiavelli's beliefs to disagree. This essay examines whether progress is possible, how it can be achieved, and if it cannot, why that is.

From the Paper:

"Progress is defined as improvement or development, and in this context, progress is the idea that we are moving forward towards the truth or a greater understanding of the truth. "I affirm no such thing. As mankind improves, the number of doctrines which are no longer disputed or doubted will be constantly on the increase; and the well-being of mankind may almost be measured by the number and gravity of the truths which have reached the point of being contested." (Mill 42) In this quote, Mill believes that we are on a road to the greater understanding of the truth. Mill has an overall idea that liberty is the catalyst for progress in a society and within an individual. He believes this is possible even through states that are not as developed. "

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