On Liberty
On Liberty, published in 1859, is John Stuart Mill's defense of individual freedom against both the state and public opinion. Its central rule, that the only ground for interfering with anyone's conduct is to prevent harm to others, is set out in the first chapter; the rest of the essay tests it against freedom of thought and discussion, individuality as an element of well-being, and the limits of social authority. Mill argues that even false opinions must be heard so that true ones stay alive, and that a society which crushes eccentricity dries up. Written with his wife Harriet Taylor, whom he credits in the dedication, it remains the standard statement of the liberal position. It is available to read online in your browser on Vinteuil, with the first chapter free.
Start reading right away, without signing up. The complete text is included in Vinteuil Reading, or yours forever with a one-time purchase.
Frequently asked questions about On Liberty
On Liberty by John Stuart Mill can be read online on Vinteuil, directly in your browser. The first chapter is free for everyone; the complete book is included in Vinteuil Reading ($4.99/month or $39.99/year) or yours forever for $2.99.
Can I read On Liberty online?
Yes. On Liberty opens right on this page, in a reader designed for long reading: adjustable text size, light, sepia and dark themes, a clickable table of contents and your place saved when you are signed in. No download or app is needed.
Is On Liberty free to read on Vinteuil?
The first chapter of On Liberty is free, without an account. To read the whole book, either buy its online reading for $2.99 (£2.99 in the UK) and keep it forever, or subscribe to Vinteuil Reading for $4.99/month (£4.99/month in the UK) or $39.99/year, with 1 month free for new subscribers. The subscription opens every book in the library and can be cancelled at any time.
Is On Liberty in the public domain?
Yes. On Liberty by John Stuart Mill is a public-domain work. Vinteuil offers a carefully prepared digital edition made for comfortable reading on screen.
How long does it take to read On Liberty?
About 3 h 28 min of reading, at an average reading pace. Your place is saved automatically when you are signed in, so you can read in several sittings and on several devices.
What kind of book is On Liberty?
On Liberty by John Stuart Mill is filed under "Philosophy" in the Vinteuil library.
