John Stuart Mill's upbringing significantly influenced his perspectives on liberty and rights. Raised in a strict environment by his father, James Mill, Mill was exposed to rigorous utilitarian philosophy and educational principles from a young age. His father emphasized rational thought and individualism, which shaped Mill's understanding of personal freedom. Additionally, witnessing social injustices and participating in discussions about politics and ethics cultivated his belief in individual rights and the importance of personal autonomy. Thus, Mill's formative experiences laid the groundwork for his advocacy of liberty as a foundational principle in society.