Mill's 'Utilitarianism': A Reader's Guide

Description

In Mill's 'Utilitarianism': A Reader's Guide, Henry R. West offers a clear, thorough and detailed review of the key themes and a lucid commentary that will enable readers to rapidly navigate the text. Geared towards the specific requirements of students who need to reach a sound understanding of the text as a whole, the guide explores the complex and important ideas inherent in the text and provides a cogent survey of the reception and influence of Mill's seminal work.

Henry R. West is Professor of Philosophy at Macalester College. He is the author of An Introduction to Mill's Utilitarian Ethics (CUP, 2004) and the editor of the Blackwell Guide to Mill's Utilitarianism (Blackwell, 2005).

West's guide to Mill's Utilitarianism is not only an excellent companion volume for the first-time reader of Mill, but also a valuable resource for Mill scholars. West provides close analysis of Mill's text, illuminating historical context, and-most useful of all-passages from Mill's lesser-read works, including correspondence, that bear on topics central to, but only briefly or cryptically discussed in, Utilitarianism. Ben Eggleston, Assistant Professor of Philosophy, University of Kansas, USA 'West's newest book will be of great value to students of every level ...Beginning students will particularly appreciate the detailed textual commentary and the chapters describing Mill's historical and philosophical context. More advanced students will also benefit from West's probing questions and his illuminating discussions of the many controversial issues found in Utilitarianism. All readers will find that West's rare combination of clarity and insight will enhance their encounter with Mill's duly famous work.' Alan E. Fuchs, Professor of Philosophy, College of William and Mary, USA. "West's book is thorough and reliable, and will prove a useful resource for anybody looking at Utilitarianism in detail." - Journal for the History of Philosophy, 2009