History of Political Theory: An Introduction not only explores the great works of Western political theory but demonstrates their continuing relevance. Volume II traces the origin and development of liberal political theory, and so the foundations for contemporary views. The work provides a readable, scholarly introduction to the great figures in Western political theory from Hobbes to Marx. Major theorists examined include Hobbes, Locke, Hume, Montesquieu, Rousseau, Burke, Mill, and Marx, not only major figures in the liberal tradition but liberal political theory's most important critics. Theorists are examined in their historical contexts, with extensive quotations allowing them to speak for themselves. Central concepts employed in their works are carefully examined, with special attention to both how they fit together to form coherent theories and how they bear on issues of contemporary concern. Major concepts examined include freedom, rights, political obligation, and revolution. Emphasizing depth rather than breadth, this work is an ideal introduction tool for instructors who have been searching for a text that combines careful exposition of important political theorists and clear, critical analysis.
About the AuthorGeorge Klosko works in both normative political theory and the history of political thought. His books include Political Obligations (Oxford, 2005) the Second Edition of The Development of Plato's Political Theory (Oxford, 2006). The Oxford Handbook of the History of Political Philosophy (2011), which he edited. He is Henry L. and Grace Doherty Professor of Politics at the University of Virginia.
ReviewsProfessor Kloskoas two volume examination of the extent to which the ideas of political thinkers actually inspire political actors has earned an established place in the teaching of the history of western philosophical thought. * Derek Hawes, Journal of Contemporary European Studies *
Book InformationISBN 9780199695454
Author George KloskoFormat Paperback
Page Count 592
Imprint Oxford University PressPublisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 870g
Dimensions(mm) 234mm * 157mm * 30mm