An Approach to Political Philosophy: Locke in Context

An Approach to Political Philosophy: Locke in Context brings together Professor Tully’s most important and innovative statements on Locke in a systematic treatment of the latter’s thought that is at once contextual and critical. Each essay has been rewritten and expanded for this volume, and each seeks to understand a theme of Locke’s political philosophy by interpreting it in light of the complex contexts of early modern European political thought and practice. These historical studies are then used in a variety of ways to gain critical perspectives on the assumptions underlying current debates in political philosophy and the history of political thought. The themes treated include government, toleration, discipline, property, aboriginal rights, individualism, power, labour, self-ownership, community, progress, liberty, participation, and revolution.

• Major general statement on Locke by one of world’s leading authorities • Topics discussed still at centre of political debates today • Excellent upper-level adoption potential

Part I. A Philosophy of Limited Government: 1. An introduction to Locke’s political philosophy; Part II. Property Disputes: 2. After the Macpherson thesis; 3. The framework of natural rights in Locke’s analysis of property; 4. Differences in the interpretation of Locke on property; 5. Rediscovering America: the two treatises and aboriginal rights; Part III. Governing Subjects: 6. Governing conduct: Locke on the reform of thought and behaviour; 7. Rights in abilities; 8. Progress and scepticism; Part IV. Freedom and Revolution: 9. Liberty and natural law; 10. Political freedom.

‘James Tully’s analysis is scholarly in its historical detail, imaginative in its search for meaning, provocatively ambitious in its scope and thoroughly engaging at all levels.’ Alsitais Edwards, Journal of Political Studies