John Stuart Mill, Harriet Taylor Mill, and The Subjection of Women
May 22, 2024
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Grant Babcock, a fan of John Stuart Mill's work and Harriet Taylor Mill's influence, discusses the relevance of 'The Subjection of Women' in liberalism. They explore women's potential, societal constraints, and revolutionary ideas in governance.
The Subjection of Women highlights the societal restrictions on women's freedom, applicable to all individuals.
John Stuart Mill advocates for gender equality, challenging traditional roles and emphasizing women's capabilities.
Deep dives
John Stuart Mill's Argument for Women's Rights
John Stuart Mill's essay, 'The Subjection of Women,' delves into the societal constraints that limit women's potential, questioning the traditional roles imposed on them. Mill argues that women, when given equal opportunities, excel, pointing out instances where women have achieved success in various fields. He challenges the notion that women are naturally inclined towards certain roles, emphasizing that societal incentives play a significant role in shaping behaviors and opportunities.
Mill's Revolutionary Call for Change
John Stuart Mill's call for gender equality in 'The Subjection of Women' challenges existing institutions and norms, advocating for a radical shift towards recognizing women's capabilities and autonomy. He critiques the societal practices that restrict women's independence and talents, highlighting the need for a reevaluation of traditional gender roles. Mill's work underscores the ongoing importance of liberalism in promoting human rights and questioning authority in shaping a more equitable society.
The contours of freedom advanced in The Subjection of Women apply to us all. The influence of his wife, Harriet Taylor Mill, in the work’s final form is hard to miss. That is in part why the essay remains a favorite of Libertarianism.org's Grant Babcock.