Revisiting J.S. Mill’s theory of education in the age of partisan division: Its utility in teaching political theory

Abstract

‘Reading too much, too quickly, ' John Stuart Mill warned, hinders the ability to think clearly and critically, and undermines public life and democratic politics. Today, perhaps more than in Mill’s time, it is tyranny, not merely of princes, but of polarized public opinion expressed in ‘virtual’ communities, confirming rather than challenging beliefs that we must now be on guard. Mill’s case in seeking truth depends on vigorous debate, but applying his ideas may be easier said than done. This paper considers the possibilities and limitations of putting his philosophy of education into practice when using a tutorial methodfor teaching political theory.