Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The research finds that John Locke and his contractarianist philosophies have been more influential in shaping the 21st-century America of today. John Stuart Mill’s philosophies of liberalism have not come to fruition throughout history as much as Locke's. Mill believes at the time of his work, liberalism is a political ideology that happens to be more utilitarian. Over time, America has changed to believe in liberalism, which does not draw as much inspiration from his work. It is his utilitarian philosophy that would reject 21st-century America and the way that it has formed over time. He simply believes in fundamental liberties because at the time of his writing, the benefits outweigh the consequences. In today’s America, society is built on the philosophy that all citizens agree to the rules they decided on collectively and sometimes that happens to be the wrong thing. John Locke is a true champion of liberalism, influencing America and where it is today. He would fight for liberties regardless of how the times are. It is worthwhile to appreciate Mill's views on free speech but there is something lacking in his utilitarian outlook on it as well as his lack of protection of property rights. With everything considered, 21st century America and its outcomes have been influenced much more by John Locke and his philosophy of contractarianism.
Author: O'Brien, Sean
Institution: Governors State University
Language: English
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7014538070
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