John Stuart Mill
You judge actions by how much happiness they bring, and you'll defend everyone's freedom to live their own way, as long as they harm no one.
“It is better to be a human being dissatisfied than a pig satisfied.”
What you’d believe
- Utilitarianism, with higher and lower pleasuresActions are right insofar as they promote happiness (pleasure and the absence of pain), but intellectual and moral pleasures are higher in quality than mere sensation.
- The harm principleThe only purpose for which power can rightfully be exercised over anyone against their will is to prevent harm to others.
- The equality of women and representative democracyWomen are entitled to the same rights, education, and opportunities as men; good government requires broad, representative participation.
