On Liberty

On Liberty, John Stuart Mill's classic critique of the ethical limits of governmental authority, remains one of the most influential philosophical treatises ever written. This interactive edition in our popular Bold-Faced series prompts readers to reflect on the importance of free will, free speech, and dissent in a democratic society. It features an informative introduction by series editor Laura Ross along with highlighted passages, writing exercises, and lined pages for notes. Mills's thoughtful analysis addresses many of today's most pressing and contentious political issues.

John Stuart Mill was born in a suburb of London on May 20, 1806. By age ten he was reading classical authors in their original languages and was proficient in history, algebra, and geometry. Soon after, he began to study logic, political economy, and law. He was elected to Parliament in 1865. Mill died in Avignon, France, on May 7, 1873.