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On Liberty

By John Stuart Mill
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Philosophy & Ethics

About This Book

The work defends broad individual liberty against social and governmental coercion, arguing that individuals should be free to act, think, and express themselves unless their conduct causes direct harm to others; this harm principle sets the boundary for permissible interference. It advocates robust freedom of opinion and discussion as necessary for truth and social progress, warns against the subtle tyranny of public opinion, and promotes individuality and experimentation in lifestyles as essential to personal and collective development. The argument is extended to practical political and social questions, considering how limits on authority and social pressure should be calibrated to protect autonomy.

About the Author

Mill, John Stuart portrait

John Stuart Mill

John Stuart Mill (1806-1873) was a British philosopher, political economist, and civil servant, known for his contributions to liberal thought and utilitarianism. His seminal work, "On Liberty," explores the nature and limits of individual freedom, advocating for personal autonomy and social progress. Mill's writings on political economy, particularly in "Principles of Political Economy," address the complexities of economic theory and its implications for society. He also engaged with social issues, as seen in his essays on representative government and socialism. Mill's intellectual legacy continues to influence contemporary discussions on ethics, politics, and economics.

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