James Mill's view on Asian societies

Background: James Mill was a British philosopher and historian who lived in the 18th and 19th century. He was a staunch advocate of utilitarianism and believed that societies should be organized in a way that maximizes happiness and minimizes pain.

View on Asian societies: According to James Mill, all Asian societies were at a lower level of civilization when compared to Europe. He believed that this was due to a number of factors, including their religion, their political systems, and their lack of scientific knowledge.

Religion: Mill believed that the religions of Asia, particularly Hinduism and Buddhism, were hindering progress and preventing people from developing their full potential. He saw these religions as being fatalistic and passive, and believed that they discouraged people from taking an active role in improving their lives.

Political systems: Mill also criticized the political systems of Asia, which he saw as being despotic and oppressive. He believed that the rulers of Asian societies were more concerned with maintaining their own power than with promoting the well-being of their people.

Lack of scientific knowledge: Finally, Mill believed that Asian societies were lacking in scientific knowledge and technological innovation. He saw Europe as being far ahead of Asia in these areas, and believed that this was due to Europe's emphasis on reason and empirical observation.

Conclusion: Overall, James Mill believed that Asia was inferior to Europe in terms of civilization. While his views were influenced by his own cultural biases and prejudices, they were widely influential in shaping Western attitudes towards Asia in the 19th century.

J S Mills liberal political thinker who are put the democracy are highest form political structure of the state however according to him political system can survive there where higher education% population and people are rational and participate most of public function. at the time of independence india are lagging some of his measure thereby he point out india lower