On Liberty

A foundational work of political philosophy examining the nature and limits of individual liberty within society.

In On Liberty, John Stuart Mill presents a sustained argument for the protection of individual freedom against social and governmental constraint. Central to the work is the principle that power may only be rightfully exercised over an individual to prevent harm to others, a concept that has shaped modern discussions of rights, autonomy, and the role of the state.

Combining philosophical reasoning with practical examples, Mill explores freedom of thought, expression, and action, as well as the dangers of conformity and majority opinion. The essay remains a central text in the study of political theory, ethics, and modern liberalism.