UtilitarianismIs there a basis for morality and human freedom independent of religious dogma? This great question, which still perplexes us today, was passionately explored by John Stuart Mill in the mid 19th century... and the answers Mill found continue to intrigue. One of Mills most influential essays, 1861s Utilitarianism is essential reading for anyone hoping to understand modern ethics, concepts of justice, and personal philosophy. In casual but powerful language, Mill explains the simple yet profound idea that maximizing human happiness, on both a personal and societal scale, must be the ultimate goal of all our thoughts and acts. How do we define happiness, and how do we put this scheme into motion? Mill examines these questions and others in one of the most provocative examinations of human motivations ever written. English philosopher and politician JOHN STUART MILL (18061873) was one of the foremost figure of Western intellectual thought in the late 19th century. He served as an administrator in the East Indian Company from 1823 to 1858, and as a member of parliament from 1865 to 1868. Among his essays on a wide range of political and social thought are Principles of Political Economy (1848), Considerations on Representative Government (1861), and The Subjection of Women (1869). |
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action admitted asso attainable believe benefit binding force capable cern character common conduct consider considerations COSIMO cultivated degree derives deserve desire happiness dictate of justice distinction duty Epicurean Epicurus equally eral ethics evil excitement existence expediency external sanctions fact faculties fellow creatures give Greatest Happiness Greatest Happiness Principle habit Herbert Spencer human nature hurt idea of justice impartiality individual inflict influence injustice instinct intel interest judgement mankind maxims of justice means means of happiness mind mode moral obligation moral right moralists motive natural justice necessary notion of justice object obligation of justice opinion origin pain particular person philosophical pleasure preference present principle of morals principle of utility proof punishment question rational recognise regard requires right and wrong rule sentiment of justice social Social Statics society Stoic superior supposed sympathy tence theory tion transcendental unjust utilitarian doctrine utilitarian morality vidual violate virtue word