John Stuart Mill and the Ethic of Human Growth

In this study of J.S. Mill, the author argues that the persistent, dominant theme of Mill's life and work was his passionate belief in human improvement and progress. Several Mill scholars recognize this; however, numerous writers overlook his "growth ethic", and this has led to misunderstandings about his value system. Drawing from the wide range of his writings, and numerous secondary sources, this study defines and establishes the importance of Mill's growth ethic and clears up misinterpretations surrounding his notions of higher and lower pleasures, positive and negative freedom, the status of children, the legitimacy of authority, and support for British colonialism.