Mill, John Stuart

Mill, John Stuart (1806–73). Utilitarian and liberal philosopher. The son of James Mill, a disciple of Jeremy Bentham, Mill was converted to Benthamite utilitarianism at the age of 15, but later rejected its egoistic psychology and mechanical concept of pleasure. He was employed for 35 years by the East India Company, afterwards serving as an independent member of Parliament for Westminster (1865–8), arguing for radical measures such as votes for women. In Principles of Political Economy (1848), Mill adopted a modified laissez-faire position, believing in the efficiency of free enterprise, but aware of the frequent failure of the market to maximize utility. In Utilitarianism (1861) Mill revised Benthamism, distinguishing between higher and lower pleasures, and affirming a moral duty to promote happiness. In On Liberty (1859) Mill wrote the most celebrated defence of individual freedom to appear in the English language, based on utilitarian values, not natural right. In Considerations on Representative Government (1861) he defended democratic participation, but only under strict conditions designed to protect the position of the virtuous élite. Finally, in Subjection of Women (1869) Mill defended the rights of women on equal terms with men—a landmark in the history of feminist writing. Mill's legacy as a founding father of liberal thought is unrivalled.

Tim S. Gray