John Stuart Mill’s Liberal Feminism: Assessing its Impact on Gender Equality and Individual Freedom

Abstract

In The Subjection of Women, which is widely recognized as one of the key books of Enlightenment liberal feminism of the 19th century, John Stuart Mill expresses his opinions on the issue of gender equality. These views are highlighted in this essay. In this essay, the author discusses Mill’s utilitarianism and liberalism as the primary philosophical underpinnings for his criticism of social conditions that oppressed women. He also provides a historical overview of Mill’s views and personal biography, which influenced his argumentation for the emancipation of women. She muses about some of the philosopher’s theories and justifications for friendship and equality between men and women that might still be seen as notable and pertinent. The key tenets of contemporary feminism’s acceptance of Mill’s liberal feminism are also discussed from the standpoint of this feminist philosophy, which primarily holds specific critical viewpoints. Despite certain problematic aspects of Mill’s arguments, one of the intellectually most intriguing interpretations of liberal feminist thought may be found in his article on women’s subjugation.