On Liberty and Utilitarianism

by John Stuart Mill

This volume unites two foundational works of political philosophy and ethics by John Stuart Mill (1806-1873), one of the most influential thinkers in the English-speaking world. On Liberty (1859) explores the nature and limits of power that society can legitimately exercise over the individual, introducing the concept of "social liberty" and arguing that individual freedom is essential to human flourishing. Utilitarianism (1863) presents Mill's refined version of consequentialist ethics, arguing that actions are right in proportion as they promote happiness and wrong as they produce the reverse. Mill's qualitative approach to pleasure went far beyond Jeremy Bentham's utilitarian calculus, making his work both influential and controversial. A bridge between classical and modern liberalism, Mill advocated for limited government intervention while championing reform in representation, women's rights, and voluntary associations. These works remain essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the philosophical foundations of individual liberty and ethical decision-making.

Foreword

On Liberty

Introductory
Of the Liberty of Thought and Discussion
Of Individuality, as One of the Elements of Well-being
Of the Limits to the Authority of Society Over the Individual
Application

Utilitarianism

General Remarks
What Utilitarianism is
Of the Ultimate Sanction of the Principle of Utility
Of What Sort of Proof the Principle of Utility is Susceptible
Of the Connection Between Justice and Utility

Index

About This Book

On Liberty (1859) is Mill's most famous work and one of the most influential defenses of individual freedom ever written. It introduces the "harm principle" - the idea that the only legitimate reason for society to interfere with an individual's liberty is to prevent harm to others.

Utilitarianism (1861) is Mill's defense and refinement of Jeremy Bentham's utilitarian philosophy, arguing that actions are right in proportion as they tend to promote happiness and wrong as they tend to produce the reverse of happiness.