An Introduction to Political Philosophy

Providing a comprehensive introduction to political philosophy, this book combines discussion of historical and contemporary figures, together with numerous real-life examples. It ranges over an unusually broad range of topics in the field, including the just distribution of wealth, both within countries and globally; the nature and justification of political authority; the meaning and significance of freedom; arguments for and against democratic rule; the problem of war; and the grounds for toleration in public life. It also offers an accessible, non-technical discussion of perfectionism, utilitarianism, theories of the social contract, and of recently popular forms of critical theory. Throughout, the book challenges readers to think critically about political arguments and institutions that they might otherwise take for granted. It will be a provocative text for any student of philosophy or political science.

• Includes frequent reference to topical examples, helping students to place ideas within a real-world context • Gives readers a sense of the full range of topics discussed by political philosophers today • Offers a provocative and accessible commentary on classic works in political philosophy

Introduction; Part I. Politics and Justification: 1. The puzzle of justification; 2. The common good; 3. Utilitarianism; 4. The social contract; Part II. Topics in Political Philosophy: 5. Property and wealth; 6. Economic justice; 7. Authority; 8. Liberty; 9. Democratic rule; 10. War; 11. Living with difference; 12. Radical criticism.