Considerations on Representative Government  (Paperback, John Stuart Mill)

Here are some key ideas and considerations from Mill's work: Suffrage and Participation: Mill supports a broadening of the suffrage to include more individuals in the democratic process. He argues that the more people who participate in decision-making, the better the chances of reaching wise and just outcomes. However, he does acknowledge the need to consider education and social status when determining the extent of suffrage. Protection of Individual Rights: Mill emphasizes the importance of protecting individual rights within a representative democracy. He warns against the "tyranny of the majority," where the majority can potentially suppress the rights and freedoms of minority groups. He suggests that a strong system of checks and balances, along with constitutional protections, is necessary to prevent such abuses. Competent Representatives: Mill discusses the qualities that make for competent and effective representatives. He believes that representatives should possess knowledge, intelligence, and a sense of responsibility to the public good. He advocates for electing representatives based on their qualifications rather than relying solely on popularity.