Chapter 3 – Liberalism, Pt 2

Utilitarianism Utilitarianism emerges in 1800 as a new approach to Classical Liberalism Jeremy Bentham James Mill John Stuart Mill The Social Contract Theory of Hobbes & Locke was the first approach to Classical Liberalism.

Utilitarianism (con’t) Requires that political institutions should achieve “the greatest good for the greatest number of people.” Maximize utility (by helping people maximize long-term pleasure and minimize pain). Consistent with Smith’s laissez-faire liberalism Extending the franchise was required, to help achieve the greatest good, for the greatest number of people. Concerned with “progress” and a better society

John Stuart Mill and the Liberal Tradition John Stuart Mill began as a utilitarian who felt that one should be left alone so long as his actions do not cause harm to others. Mill was haunted by majority tyranny like Tocqueville, he prized uniqueness and eccentricity. Less government intervention would promote non conformism – and this would allow the best and the brightest to flower into genius and excellence. Mill also prized participation; but since he worried about majority tyranny he favored plural voting. The weight of your vote would be based on educational level.

John Stuart Mill and the Liberal Tradition Articulates the harm principle in On Liberty: “The only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others. His own good, either physical or moral, is not a sufficient warrant.” His liberalism is conditioned on the need for progress and improvement in society Liberal elements: critical inquiry, debate, and a free marketplace of ideas Democratic elements: Political participation is essential for the formation of and exercise of moral character and public minded civility The usual democratic fears: A tyranny of public opinion and enslavement to popular fashion was a serious risk. Remedies: Education, the encouragement of diversity, protection from governmental constraints, plural voting.