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Utilitarianism/On Liberty

By: John Stuart Mill
Narrated by: Derek Le Page
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Summary

John Stuart Mill (1808-1873) was a torchbearer for liberal thought in the 19th century, including liberty of the individual and freedom of speech, and he championed women's suffrage in Parliament. A remarkable man - he learned Greek aged three and at eight had read Herodotus, Xenophon and Plato - he campaigned all his life for a just society. These two essays are his key works.

In Utilitarianism (published in 1863, four years after On Liberty), Mill observes that 'the principle of utility' equates to the 'greatest-happiness principle' and that this should be the basis of an ethical life. Mill expands on this view in five chapters and deals with difficulties and criticisms, including the balance of individual versus general happiness.

In On Liberty (published in 1859 and written with his wife, Harriet Taylor, who died a year earlier), Mill applied his already established views on utilitarianism to the society and the state. He discusses the necessary balances between authority and liberty; the individual must have freedom, but within a utilitarian (greatest-happiness principle) compass. Nevertheless, he considers the 'tyranny of the majority', and he acknowledges that in certain societies rule by command may benefit the majority. But he emphasises the fundamental importance of individual liberty, so long as it does not harm others. Though it has had its critics, On Liberty remains a key document and has a special resonance for world politics today.

Public Domain (P)2016 Ukemi Productions Ltd

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Very enjoyable and accessible.

This is a very enjoyable, accessible and beautifully narrated presentation for both students of philosophy and the general reader. It is many years since I first read these 2 works of John Stuart Mill and, in my 80s, I have decided to revisit a number of philosophical writings that I enjoyed in my youth. This is the first that I have returned to and I have nothing but admiration and praise for this Audible presentation which has helped recapture my original excitement on reading this work. Derek Le Page's narration is beautifully clear, well-paced and a pleasure to listen to. Highly recommended

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Quite astounding

It’s amazing how On Liberty was written 150 years ago, but is so relevant to today.

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Very useful👍🏾

they are great books, they would be because they are written by JS Mill. fantastic 👍🏾😁

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