Redeeming American Political Thought
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Book Overview
Noted political philosopher Judith Shklar declined to write a book about American political thought because, she once claimed, "the subject is too hard." She finally took on this formidable task late in her career, but her untimely death left most of the work unpublished. Now Redeeming American Political Thought makes these essays, some published here for the first time, available to readers. In these thirteen essays, Shklar explores two themes crucial to discussions of American democracy: first, what she terms the "fundamental social condition" of American life, the tension between expansive political equality and persistent social inequality; and second, "redeeming" American political thought for those who believe it lacks the complexity and depth of the European tradition. She covers issues ranging from the use of history in political discourse to the effect of skepticism on politics and thinkers from Hamilton and Jefferson to Melville. The strength and depth of this collection underscore Shklar's reputation as one of this century's most important liberal scholars. Judith N. Shklar (1928-1992) was Cowles Professor of Government at Harvard University and the author of nine books in political philosophy.
Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0226753484
ISBN13:9780226753485
Release Date:January 1998
Publisher:University of Chicago Press
Length:228 Pages
Weight:0.75 lbs.
Dimensions:0.5" x 6.1" x 9.0"
Customer Reviews
1 rating
Don't let the title fool you
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 20 years ago
This book puts together a perspective of American history from a philosophical and historical framework that is groundbreaking. One of the wierd things I liked about this book is found in the 8th Chapter of the precisions that she gives in understanding American history using the ideas embodied in the 'Two Concept of Liberty' found in Isaiah Berlin's work in the classic 'Four Essays of Liberty.' After reading this book and see how she sharply employs the fine element of criticism when referring to DeTocqueville on his view of Democracy and Thomas Jefferson you will see things and even the world differently. This is a book that has been decades overdue.
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