JS Mill's 'On Liberty': an ode to intellectual curiosity, tolerance and open-mindedness

Join this eight-week course to explore John Stuart Mill's 'On Liberty' and discuss key themes such as individuality, freedom of expression and tolerance.

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  • Start Date: 12 Apr 2027
    End Date: 14 Jun 2027
    Mon (Daytime): 14:45 - 16:45
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 8 sessions (over 10 weeks)
    Course Code: HP249
    Full fee £239.00 Senior fee £191.00 Concession £155.00
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In stock
SKU
246496
Full fee £239.00 Senior fee £191.00 Concession £155.00

What is the course about?

This course will explore Mill’s text "On Liberty" through the analysis of his utilitarian view on individual liberty and tolerance. We will compare Mill’s harm principle, serving as a foundation for freedom of speech, with the values of our contemporary society. Throughout the course, we will explore concepts such as liberty, authority, individuality, tolerance, freedom of speech, tyranny of the majority, harm, and conformism.

What will we cover?

We will cover the main ideas developed in Mill's 'On Liberty', and spend time looking at his principles of individuality, freedom of expression and tolerance.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• a clear understanding of the main ideas developed in ‘On Liberty’.
• a clear understanding of Mill’s principles of individuality, freedom of expression and tolerance.
• Development of specialised terminology and philosophical language relevant to the course, critical thinking skills, analytical rigour and discussion skills.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is designed for both beginners and individuals with prior exposure to philosophy. An open mind and willingness to listen and respond to ideas with which you may not always agree are more important than specific levels of skill.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Each lesson will include interactive activities and discussion, multimedia stimuli from power point (videos, pictures) and a selection of reading to complete in class or at home (to be used as a starter the following lesson).

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No additional costs. You may want to bring notetaking materials.

Cristina Paterno

Cristina holds two Honours Degrees in Philosophy and Science of Education with History. She worked as a researcher and lecturer at the University of Cagliari in Italy, focussing on classical and modern European and Asian philosophy with a particular emphasis on metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and political philosophy. She moved to the UK in 1994 and taught at universities, adult education institutions, and secondary schools, as well as successfully assumed leadership roles, including that of a head of department. In addition to teaching at City Lit, Cristina is the coordinator of Italian at Imperial College. Her teaching style is engaging and transformative, characterised by interactive strategies tailored to accommodate diverse learning styles. Cristina’s commitment to incorporate human rights into the fabric of her teachings symbolises her conviction in the practical implications of philosophical theories and her belief in the real-world implications of philosophical ideas. For Cristina philosophy isn't just an academic pursuit, it is a means to foster critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the human experience.

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.