"Political Thought in England: The Utilitarians from Bentham to J.S. Mill" by William L. Davidson is a comprehensive exploration of the political philosophy of the Utilitarian thinkers in England during the 19th century.
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| Political Thought in England |
The book delves into the lives and writings of key figures such as Jeremy Bentham, James Mill, and John Stuart Mill, examining their contributions to moral philosophy, social and political theory, jurisprudence, and more.
The book begins by discussing the Utilitarian position, outlining the core principles of the Utilitarian philosophy which emphasizes the greatest happiness for the greatest number. It then delves into the life and writings of Jeremy Bentham, one of the founding figures of Utilitarianism. Bentham's contributions to moral philosophy, social and political thought, government theory, legislation, political economy, and education are thoroughly examined, providing insight into his comprehensive worldview.
The book also explores Bentham's role as a jurist and law reformer, discussing his ideas on law reform, punishment, and prisons. The influence of Bentham's ideas on legal theory and practice is highlighted, showcasing his lasting impact on the field of jurisprudence.
Moving on to James Mill, the book discusses his life, psychology, theory of education, and his contributions as a politician and jurist. James Mill's ideas on government, political economy, and jurisprudence are analyzed, shedding light on his unique perspective on these subjects.
The book then turns its focus to John Stuart Mill, examining his life, writings, logic of politics, ethics, political economy, psychology, theory of knowledge, and advocacy for women's rights. Mill's famous work "On Liberty" is discussed in detail, exploring his arguments for individual freedom and the limits of state intervention in personal matters.
In addition to the main figures of Bentham, James Mill, and John Stuart Mill, the book also touches on the contributions of other Utilitarian thinkers such as George Grote, John Austin, and Alexander Bain. A bibliography and index are provided for further reference, making this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in the political thought of the Utilitarians in England during the 19th century.
Excerpt:
infrequently we find writers, men of letters and philosophers alike, referring to Utilitarianism as they might to Epicureanism of old, as a rounded and completed thing delivered once for all by a master, and handed down full-formed from the beginning, with little or no modification by succeeding generations.
But Utilitarianism, like most other philosophical systems, is a growth, beginning with a clear but restricted view, and needing experience and the critical sympathetic insight of others later on to widen its outlook, to tone down its dogmatism, to lop off excrescences, and to adjust it to fresh light and new situations. There is a school or succession of utilitariasm..
