Origin Story John Stuart Mill & Harriet Taylor Mill – Part One – Liberalism's original power couple
May 29, 2024
Discover the passionate partnership of John Stuart Mill and Harriet Taylor Mill, the original power couple of liberalism. Their love story unfolds amid Victorian society's constraints, showcasing Harriet's unheralded influence on Mill's groundbreaking ideas. Explore Mill's emotional growth and Taylor's sharp social critiques, as they challenge norms and advocate for women's rights. Delve into the complexities of their collaboration, highlighting themes of freedom, feminism, and the enduring relevance of their philosophies in contemporary discussions.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Mill's Education
- John Stuart Mill's father, James Mill, implemented an intense education regime.
- This included Greek at three, Roman history at six, and Plato at seven, impacting his emotional development.
Philosophic Calculus
- Philosophic calculus, related to happiness, suggests that morality can be calculated.
- This appealed to Mill in his youth, offering seemingly simple answers to complex moral questions.
Mill's Emotional State
- Mill's upbringing lacked emotional connection, leaving him feeling like a "dry, hard logic machine."
- He had no friends or exposure to typical childhood experiences, hindering his emotional development.
