Republicanism is a centuries-old political tradition, yet its precise meaning has long been contested. The term has been used to refer to government in the public interest, to regimes administered by a collective body or an elected president, and even just to systems embodying the values of liberty and civic virtue. But what do we really mean when we talk about republicanism?

In this new book, leading scholar Rachel Hammersley expertly and accessibly introduces this complex but important topic. Beginning in the ancient world, she traces the history of republican government in theory and practice across the centuries in Europe and North America, concluding with an analysis of republicanism in our contemporary politics. She argues that republicanism is a dynamic political language, with each new generation of thinkers building on the ideas of their predecessors and adapting them in response to their own circumstances, concerns, and crises.

This compelling account of the origins, history, and potential future of one of the world's most enduring political ideas will be essential reading for anyone with an interest in republicanism, from historians and political theorists to politicians and ordinary citizens.

About the Author
Rachel Hammersley is Senior Lecturer in Intellectual History at Newcastle University.

Reviews
A wonderfully clear and wide-ranging survey of republican ideas. Essential reading for intellectual historians, political theorists, as well as anyone interested in the practical relevance of inspiring political ideas.
Cecile Laborde, University of Oxford

Remarkably wide-ranging, consistently lucid and intelligent, and grounded in a deep understanding, this is the indispensable introduction.
Jonathan Scott, The University of Auckland

Book Information
ISBN 9781509513420
Author Rachel Hammersley
Format Paperback
Page Count 276
Imprint Polity Press
Publisher John Wiley and Sons Ltd
Weight(grams) 408g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 150mm * 23mm