Mill’s On Liberty

John Stuart Mill’s "On Liberty" was first published in 1859. In the 21st
century this text confirms Socrates’ claim that "it is only the life of true
philosophy that scorns the life of political ambition" (Plato’s Republic,
521). Mill’s thinking about freedom in civic and social life examines
fundamental principles shared among conservative, liberal, and radical
politicians. The life of true philosophy stands outside the political battles
that are rampant in society and seeks the political wisdom that is necessary
for a good life in any age. "On Liberty" should be read alongside the classic
documents that declare the basic nature and importance of human freedom and
liberty such as the "U.S. Declaration of Independence" (1776), the French
"Rights of Man" (1789), "The Declaration of Sentiments at the Seneca Falls
Convention" (1848), and the "United Nations Universal Declaration of Human
Rights" (1948). When the officials of any government seek to change the laws
that regulate individual liberty or when rhetoricians seek to change public
opinion about what individuals should or should not be allowed to say or do,
Mill’s "On Liberty" serves as an antidote to the poisons of excessive
intrusion into the lives of individuals.