Utilitarianism is a classic work of ethical theory, arguably the most persuasive and comprehensible presentation of this widely influential position. While he didn’t invent utilitarianism, John Stuart Mill offered its clearest expression and strongest defense, and he expanded the theory to account for the variety in quality that we find among pleasures and pains. The complete text of the 1871 edition is included, along with selections from Jeremy Bentham’s An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation. Andrew Bailey’s detailed introduction examines the context of Mill’s writing and offers guidelines on how to read the text accurately and critically.

The complete text of the 1871 edition of Utilitarianism is presented here, with footnote annotations added to clarify unfamiliar references and terminology for the student reader. A detailed introduction by the editor is divided into brief digestible parts discussing the context of the text and offering guidelines on how to read it accurately and critically. This edition has its origin in the acclaimed Broadview Anthology of Social and Political Thought and adheres to the anthology’s format and high standard of accuracy and accessibility.

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Andrew Bailey is an award winning comedian, writer and monologist. His shows include The Adversary, Scrupulosity, Limbo and Putz. He is also one of the primary writers and actors of the Atomic Vaudeville cabaret, having appeared in more than fifty episodes since 2004. He lives in Vancouver

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“The world needs Mill’s vision as much as ever, and this fine student edition of one of his classic works should win a wide readership.” — Bart Schultz, University of Chicago

“Bailey’s introduction to this new edition of J.S. Mill’s acclaimed Utilitarianism is concise and elegant. It also succinctly highlights the significant charms of classical utilitarianism as well as the anxieties that continue to motivate its foes.” — D. Weinstein, Wake Forest University and Universität Oldenburg

“This is an especially valuable edition for introducing an eager student to Mill’s Utilitarianism. While the editor’s introduction is philosophically mature, and appropriately balances context, defense, and criticism, my highest praise of it is that I actually got goosebumps from the way in which Mill’s own voice explains his famous depression and recovery.” — Russell DiSilvestro, California State University Sacramento