The present invention is directed to a ferroelectric liquid crystal composition having quick response properties and assuming a smectic C* phase in an extensive temperature range inclusive of room temperature, and an optical switching element having a quick response property containing this composition.The ferroelectric liquid crystal composition is here disclosed which comprises at least one chiral compound (liquid crystal component A) having an optical activity site represented by the formula (A) ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 is a straight-chain or branched alkyl group having 2 to 18 carbon atoms or a straight-chain or branched alkoxy group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, and * indicates an asymmetric carbon atom,and at least one non-chiral compound (liquid crystal component B) having a smectic C phase (hereinafter referred to as "S.sub.C phase"; which shall apply in the following), an S.sub.I phase, an S.sub.F phase, an S.sub.G phase, an S.sub.H phase, an S.sub.J phase or an S.sub.K phase.