Question

Write a short note on James Mill's view of India? (3 marks)

Answer 1

Mill was a Scottish economist and political philosopher, who published a massive three-volume work, A History of British India. His work was based on his understanding of India. These were:

• Mill thought that all Asian societies were at a lower level of civilisation than Europe.
• According to his telling of history, before the British came to India, Hindu and Muslim despots ruled the country. Religious intolerance, caste taboos and superstitious practices dominated social life.
• British rule, Mill felt, could civilise India.Mill, in fact, suggested that the British should conquer all the territories in India to ensure the enlightenment and happiness of the Indian people.