On Liberty ; and, Utilitarianism (Bantam Classics) - Softcover

Mill, John Stuart

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0553214144 ISBN 13: 9780553214147

Publisher: Bantam Books Inc, 1993

Synopsis

Together, these two essays mark the philosophic cornerstone of democratic morality and represent a thought-provoking search for the true balance between the rights of the individual and the power of the state. Thoroughly schooled in the principles of the utilitarian movement founded by Jeremy Bentham, John Stuart Mill nevertheless brings his own unique intellectual energy to issues such individual freedom, equality, authority, happiness, justice, and virtue. "On Liberty" is Mill's famous examination of the nature of individuality and its crucial role in any social system that expected to remain creative and vital. Utilitarian brilliantly expounds a pragmatic ethic based on one controversial proposition: actions are right only if they promote the common good and wrong if they do not. While much of Mill's thinking was eventually adopted by socialists, it is in today's democratic societies--with their troubling issues of crime, freedom of speech, and the boundaries of personal liberty--that his work resounds most powerfully.

About this title

Review:

Mill's On Liberty stands among the most important achievements in the history of political thought. His arguments are as pertinent today as ever. This much-needed new edition is especially useful, as it includes Steven M. Cahn's helpful annotations as well as an excellent Introduction and thought-provoking Study Guide by C. L. Ten.--Robert B. Talisse, Vanderbilt University

Book Description:

Published in 1859, this essay by British philosopher and economist John Stuart Mill (1806–73) remains a major influence upon liberal political thought today. In this work, Mill defines liberty as an absolute individual right, and defends freedom of speech as a necessary condition of social and intellectual progress.

About this edition

• Publisher: Bantam Books Inc
• Publication date: 1993
• ISBN 10: 0553214144
• ISBN 13: 9780553214147
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 272