Abstract

This thesis examines John Stuart Mill's philosophy of government from the perspectives of the individual in society and of society and its institutions. A critique of scholarly opinion regarding Mill's philosophy on representation leads to a repudiation of charges of inconsistency and elitism. While it concurs with revisionist interpretations, which stress the systematic and democratic aspects of Mill's thought, it advocates a third position. A broader interpretation is reached by the inclusion and consideration of Mill's political solutions. After a brief discussion of the historical background of late seventeenth- and early eighteenth-century England three major topics are examined. The first is Mill's theoretical approach to representative government, which requires an analysis of his views regarding the political development of society, the development of representative government, the individual in society and the nature of "true" and "false" democracies. Special attention is given to Mill's reaction to the political thought of Alexis de Tocqueville. The second is Mill's approach to politics, which leads to an examination of British policies in regard to representation, the Reform Movement, British party politics, the weighted franchise and women's suffrage. Special attention is given to the impact of Hare's proposals of personal representation on Mill's thought. The third examines the contemporary controversy regarding Mill's work.