John Stuart Mill

This book offers a clear and highly readable introduction to the ethical and social-political philosophy of John Stuart Mill.Dale E. Miller argues for a "utopian" reading of Mill's utilitarianism. He analyses Mill's views on happiness and goes on to show the practical, social and political implications that can be drawn from his utilitarianism, especially in relation to the construction of morality, individual freedom, democratic reform, and economic organization. By highlighting the utopian thinking which lies at the heart of Mill's theories, Miller shows that rather than allowing for well-being for the few, Mill believed that a society must do everything in its power to see to it that each individual can enjoy a genuinely happy life if the happiness of its members is to be maximized. Miller provides a cogent and careful account of the main arguments offered by Mill, considers the critical responses to his work, and assesses its legacy for contemporary philosophy.Lucidly and persuasively written, this book will be a valuable resource for students and scholars seeking to understand the continued importance of Mill's thinking.

ContentsPrefaceAcknowledgmentsPart I: Foundations of Mill's Moral, Social and Political Thought1. A Singular Life2. Mill's Understanding of Human NaturePart II: Mill's Moral Philosophy3. The 'Proof' Principle of Utility4. The Higher Pleasures5. Utilitarianism: The 'Happiness Morality'6. Mill's Theory of Right and WrongPart III: Mill's Social and Political Thought7. Mill on Liberty and Individuality8. Millian Normative Political Economy9. Millian DemocracyPART IV: Concluding Remarks10. Mill's Utopian UtilitarianismNotesBibliographyIndex