In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the philosophy of John Stuart Mill has never been more relevant. Can we reconcile individual liberty with the demands of the common good? Mill's central concern was to modify the Utilitarian ethical theory of Jeremy Bentham and his father, James Mill, in a manner that would safeguard human rights. However, many philosophers - most notably John Rawls - have argued that Mill's attempt was either inconsistent or incoherent. This new reading of Mill defends him against these charges, and shows the value of his approach to the world we live in today. John Fitzpatrick argues that, properly understood, Mill's liberal utilitarianism can indeed support a system of rights rich enough to guarantee individual liberty. Combining fresh interpretations of Mill's writings on ethics, politics, and political economy with the historical Mill that can found in his autobiography, the book will be of substantial interest to a wide audience.

This title presents a new introduction to Mill, guiding the student through the key concepts of his work by examining the overall development of his ideas. John Stuart Mill was one of the most important and influential British philosophers. When one considers his overall intellectual contributions, Mill is arguably the most important intellectual figure of the nineteenth century. Covering all the key concepts of his work, "Starting with Mill" provides an accessible introduction to the ideas of this hugely significant thinker. Clearly structured according to Mill's key works, the book leads the reader through a thorough overview of the development of his thought, resulting in a more thorough understanding of the roots of his philosophical concerns. Offering coverage of the full range of Mill's ideas, the book explores his contributions to metaphysics and epistemology, logic, psychology, political economy, ethics, utilitarianism, and liberalism. Crucially the book introduces the major thinkers whose work proved influential in the development of Mill's thought, including Jeremy Bentham, James Mill, Adam Smith, John Locke and the other British Empiricists. This is the ideal introduction for anyone coming to the work of this hugely important thinker for the first time. "Continuum's Starting" with...series offers clear, concise and accessible introductions to the key thinkers in philosophy. The books explore and illuminate the roots of each philosopher's work and ideas, leading readers to a thorough understanding of the key influences and philosophical foundations from which his or her thought developed. Ideal for first-year students starting out in philosophy, the series will serve as the ideal companion to study of this fascinating subject.