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Join us as we delve into the life and legacy of John Stuart Mill (1806–1873), one of the most influential thinkers of the 19th century. This seminar explores how Mill's intellectual development was shaped by the close-knit network of families, mentors, and philosophical allies surrounding him. Raised under the rigorous tutelage of his father, James Mill—a key figure in the utilitarian movement—Mill was groomed to advance the utilitarian ideals of reason, reform, and social progress.

We’ll examine Mill’s contributions to ethics, liberal political theory, and statecraft, alongside his engagement with the pressing issues of his time, including colonialism. Our discussion also sheds light on the personal struggles Mill faced, from a nervous breakdown at the age of 20 to his eventual recovery through the romantic poetry of William Wordsworth, which provided a much-needed balance to his rationalistic upbringing.

Through this lens, we’ll uncover how Mill’s ideas were not just products of solitary genius but deeply influenced by the intellectual and cultural currents of his era. Join us to explore the tensions and harmonies between rationalism and emotion in Mill’s life and thought, and what his legacy means for us today.

#JohnStuartMill #Utilitarianism #PhilosophySeminar #IntellectualHistory #PoliticalTheory #JeremyBentham #Ethics #Liberalism #Romanticism #PhilosophyCommunity

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In this new episode of Beyond the Text, we're introducing an exciting format going forward! Join Samuel Woodall (PhD Candidate in Intellectual History) and Jack Thomson (MA in Philosophy), both from the University of Buckingham, as they team up to explore Jean-Jacques Rousseau's The Social Contract.

Together, they delve into the revolutionary ideas of the General Will, the principles of civic religion, and Rousseau's vision of a political community. This engaging discussion blends historical insight with philosophical depth, offering fresh perspectives on one of the most influential texts in intellectual history.

Don't miss this dynamic co-hosted conversation—perfect for history buffs, philosophy lovers, and anyone curious about the origins of modern political thought!

As cohosts of the History of Ideas Club, which meets every other Thursday in Central London, Samuel and Jack bring their collaborative energy to the podcast. This cohosted format will define Beyond the Text's future episodes, so if you enjoy please subscribe and stay tuned.

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John Locke (1632–1704), a key figure of the Enlightenment, is known for his contributions to philosophy, politics, and epistemology.

His Essay Concerning Human Understanding introduces the concept of the tabula rasa, arguing that the mind begins as a blank slate, acquiring knowledge solely through experience. This empiricist view challenged traditional notions of innate ideas, such as Plato’s Forms or the Christian doctrine of original sin.

A Letter Concerning Toleration further advocated the separation of church and state, promoting religious freedom as essential to individual and societal well-being.

Locke’s political philosophy, most notably in Two Treatises of Government, laid the foundation for modern liberal democracy. He emphasized natural rights—life, liberty, and property—and argued that governments derive legitimacy from the consent of the governed, not divine authority. This is the text from which the chapter we will be looking at today originates.