On Liberty and The Subjection of Women

This was the book where I learned a very critical piece of my reading personality:

I much prefer my philosophy tomes in novel form to essay.

This was such a difficult read only because I could not “watch the movie in my head” as I do with even most nonfiction. On the whole, it was an intriguing look into his philosophy of Utilitarianism, specifically as it relates to liberty. More people would do well to read this and understand its arguments, particularly when discussing political issues even 15o years later.

I have read ch. III of On Liberty and a short excerpt from On the Subjection of Women. What follows is my review of each:

• “Of Individuality” (from On Liberty): This chapter by John Stewart Mill argues in favor of personal liberty and freedom to express one’s individuality. Mill gives several reasons that freedom and individuality should be allowed to flourish. Rating: 3/5
• "On the Equality of the Sexes": John Stuart Mill explains the negative effects that male-domination have had on the expression of female thought and character. Rating: 3.5/5