Mill's "Utilitarianism" is one of the most important texts in the teaching of ethics. Utilitarianism as an ethical philosophy is one of the competing theories at the present time and Mill's "Utilitarianism" is the classic text in this area. As such, it is a hugely important and exciting, yet challenging piece of philosophical writing. In Mill's "'Utilitarianism': A Reader's Guide", Henry R. West offers a clear and thorough account of this key philosophical work. The book offers a detailed review of the key themes and a lucid commentary that will enable readers to rapidly navigate the text. Geared towards the specific requirements of students who need to reach a sound understanding of the text as a whole, the guide explores the complex and important ideas inherent in the text and provides a cogent survey of the reception and influence of Mill's seminal work. This is the ideal companion to study of this most influential of texts. "Continuum Reader's Guides" are clear, concise and accessible introductions to key texts in literature and philosophy. Each book explores the themes, context, criticism and influence of key works, providing a practical introduction to close reading, guiding students towards a thorough understanding of the text. They provide an essential, up-to-date resource, ideal for undergraduate students.

A key addition to the Reader's Guides series, covering Mill's Utilitarianism in a concise and accessible way with a student-friendly presentation and price.

About the Author
Henry R. West is Professor of Philosophy at Macalester College, USA. He is the author of An Introduction to Mill's Utilitarian Ethics (CUP, 2004) and the editor of the Blackwell Guide to Mill's Utilitarianism (Blackwell, 2005).

Reviews
West's guide to Mill's Utilitarianism is not only an excellent companion volume for the first-time reader of Mill, but also a valuable resource for Mill scholars. West provides close analysis of Mill's text, illuminating historical context, and-most useful of all-passages from Mill's lesser-read works, including correspondence, that bear on topics central to, but only briefly or cryptically discussed in, Utilitarianism. Ben Eggleston, Assistant Professor of Philosophy, University of Kansas, USA
'West's newest book will be of great value to students of every level ...Beginning students will particularly appreciate the detailed textual commentary and the chapters describing Mill's historical and philosophical context. More advanced students will also benefit from West's probing questions and his illuminating discussions of the many controversial issues found in Utilitarianism. All readers will find that West's rare combination of clarity and insight will enhance their encounter with Mill's duly famous work.' Alan E. Fuchs, Professor of Philosophy, College of William and Mary, USA.
"West's book is thorough and reliable, and will prove a useful resource for anybody looking at Utilitarianism in detail." - Journal for the History of Philosophy, 2009



Book Information
ISBN 9780826493026
Author Professor Henry R. West
Format Paperback
Page Count 148
Imprint Continuum International Publishing Group Ltd.
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Weight(grams) 202g