Summary of Utilitarianism and On Liberty

"Utilitarianism and On Liberty" is a book by the British philosopher John Stuart Mill that outlines his ethical and political theories. In the first part of the book, Mill introduces and defends the principle of utilitarianism, which holds that actions are morally right if they promote the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people. He argues that pleasure and the absence of pain are the only intrinsic goods and that the goal of morality should be to maximize happiness. In the second part of the book, Mill discusses his ideas on liberty and individual rights. He argues that individuals should have the freedom to act as they choose, as long as their actions do not harm others. He asserts that society should not interfere with individuals' personal choices and beliefs, and that only actions that directly harm others should be prohibited. Overall, the book explores the tension between the promotion of social well-being and the protection of individual freedom, and makes a compelling case for both utilitarianism and the importance of individual liberty.