John Stuart Mill (May 20 1806 - May 7 1873)

Publication of A System of Logic

1843

A publication called A System of Logic, Ratiocinative and Inductive, became the first major publication of John Stuart Mill. This six-volume work argues for the primacy of induction over deduction and is what secured Mill's philosopher reputation. This work also contains what is considered by some to be the most important contribution to social science methodology before Emile Durkheim.

Publication of The Principles of Political Economy

1848

The second major publication of John Stuart Mill. This publication was a textbook that was very popular and went through 32 editions in 50 years. Mill stated that even though the laws of nature constrains production, how income is distributed is a choice that is made by society. Mill thought that socialism was the key to improving society, but the plans that socialists created were considered to be either inconsistent or impractical with individual freedom.

Publication of On Liberty

1859

This publication is one of the most celebrated texts on its subject. The book talks about freedom of an individual based on utilitarian values. The text argues that an individual should have unlimited freedom of choice except when the choices can cause harm to others.

Publication of Utilitarianism

1863

This publication was a revision of Benthamism. In this text, a distinction between high and low pleasures is argued. This argument affirmed an ethical duty for the promotion of happiness.