Skip to content

Association Quote by John Stuart Mill

“The form of association, however, which if mankind continue to improve, must be expected in the end to predominate, is not that which can exist between a capitalist as chief, and work-people without a voice in the management, but the association of the labourers themselves on terms of equality…” quote by John Stuart Mill
Download Open image
““The form of association, however, which if mankind continue to improve, must be expected in the end to predominate, is not that which can exist between a capitalist as chief, and work-people without a voice in the management, but the association of the labourers themselves on terms of equality, collectively owning the capital with which they carry on their operations, and working under managers elected and removable by themselves.””

John Stuart Mill

About This Quote

Source Book: Principles of Political Economy, John Stuart Mill, 1848

Mill envisions a future where workers collectively own and manage capital, ensuring equality and democratic control over production.

In simple terms: Workers should own and run businesses together.

Key Takeaway

Promote cooperative ownership and democratic management.

Themes

equality cooperation democracy economics labor rights

Mood

optimistic determined inspirational

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • cooperatives
  • employee‑owned firms
  • community‑run enterprises
  • policy advocacy

Key Concepts

collective ownership worker self‑management economic democracy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can existing corporations transition to worker ownership?
  • What safeguards ensure true democratic control?
A Different Perspective

Implementation requires cultural shift and legal frameworks.

2.5 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by John Stuart Mill

Explore all 524 John Stuart Mill quotes

More Association quotes

Browse all 863 Association quotes