Description of the Book: John Stuart Mill and the Religion of Humanity
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"Today, I believe, one ought to keep total silence on the question of religion when writing for an English audience, though indirectly one may strike any blow one wishes at religion beliefs."—John Stuart Mill to Auguste Comte (1845) "John Stuart Mill and the Religion of Humanity" introduces material that requires significant reevaluation of John Stuart Mill's contribution to the development of the liberal tradition. Raeder examines the religious thought and aspirations of the philosopher and shows that, contrary to the conventional view of Mill as the prototypical secular liberal, religious preoccupations dominated his thought and structured his endeavors throughout his life. She explores the influence of James Mill, Jeremy Bentham, Claude-Henri Saint-Simon, and Auguste Comte on Mill’s religious thought and aims. She treats Mill’s "Three Essays on Religion," discusses his participation in the Mansel controversy, and offers new interpretations of "On Liberty" and "Utilitarianism," both of which were crucial instruments in the accomplishment of his religious mission. For a proper appreciation of Mill's thought and legacy, the depth of his animus toward traditional transcendent religion must be recognized, along with the seriousness of his intent to found a nontheological religion to serve as its replacement.--BOOK JACKET.
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