Abstract

This chapter explores Mill’s views on the cultivation of character in light of his commitment to certain features of moral sentimentalism. Mill, unlike Bentham, was influenced by the sentimentalists in that he believed that human beings were sympathetic, as part of their natures, and not simply motivated by narrow self-interest. Enlarging sympathy, and developing the social feelings, was important to development of social virtue. In addition, along with the sentimentalists, Mill viewed one practical way of achieving a greater development of virtue in citizens was via aesthetic education. A proper moral education will see people develop social emotions that will serve to underwrite the social virtues — people will come to realize the good of others as something which makes a legitimate claim to their attention and resources.