Thinker

John Stuart Mill quotes

6 passages in English · 1806–1873 · Utilitarianism / liberalism.

Overview

John Stuart Mill (1806–1873) refined utilitarianism and authored On Liberty, a classic defense of individuality against social and political tyranny.

Main ideas

Mill’s harm principle limits interference with liberty; higher and lower pleasures revise Benthamite calculation; and The Subjection of Women argues for equality. Representative government and free discussion are institutional ideals.

Major works

  • On Liberty
  • Utilitarianism
  • The Subjection of Women
  • Considerations on Representative Government

Legacy

Mill remains a primary reference for liberal democracy, free speech, and utilitarian ethics.

Themes in this archive

Happiness (2) · Language (1)

Quotes by theme

John Stuart Mill on liberty · John Stuart Mill on happiness · John Stuart Mill on dignity

  1. The only freedom which deserves the name is that of pursuing our own good in our own way, so long as we do not attempt to deprive others of theirs.
  2. It is better to be a human being dissatisfied than a pig satisfied; better to be Socrates dissatisfied than a fool satisfied.
  3. The only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others.
  4. He who knows only his own side of the case, knows little of that.
  5. It is better to be a human being dissatisfied than a pig satisfied.
  6. Over himself, over his own body and mind, the individual is sovereign.