On This Day
08 May 1873
Death of John Stuart Mill, philosopher, economist and Liberal MP for Westminster 1865-68
The son of Scottish utilitarian philosopher James Mill, John Stuart Mill became one of the most important philosophers of the nineteenth century. His publications especially The Principles of Political Economy, Utilitarianism and, most importantly, On Liberty form the cornerstone of modern Liberalism. Mill’s defence of individual liberty and his unease at the excessive power and influence of the state still resonates today. In parliament Mill called for women to be given the vote and was a strong supporter of proportional representation and an extension of the franchise. In 2007 a poll organised by the Liberal Democrat History Group voted Mill as the greatest British Liberal.