The chapter examines the complex problems surrounding Mill's active support for colonialism and empire. How did he rationalize his role in the colonial project, and reconcile his liberal values with the injustices and indignities of conquest, subjugation, and exploitation? These are the crucial questions of Mill's moral legacy that I address. Mill saw colonialism in moral terms. He justified it as an educational, civilizing mission and stimulus to development, freedom, and happiness. His utilitarian calculus was based on existing realities, rather (...) than theoretical ideals. This chapter is divided into four parts. After explaining the paradox, I examine Mill's time and place for the key ideas shaping his understanding of colonialism. I then explore his life experiences and how his thought evolved. I argue that Mill's qualified support for colonialism is consistent with his belief that progress and 'the improvement of mankind' are major components of his utilitarian value system. I conclude by analyzing how Mill might respond to some criticisms. (shrink)

This paper examines the political philosophy of Liberalism with particular focus on the principles of liberal neutrality and value pluralism. These principles, which are advocated by the most prominent contemporary liberal theorists mark a significant departure from classical liberalism and its monistic approach to seeking truth and the good. I argue that the shift to neutrality and pluralism have done a disservice to liberalism and that the cultivation of discrimination skills is needed to deal with the complex tasks of making (...) decisions intelligently and effectively. (shrink)