Political Philosophy

by Simmons, A. John

• ISBN13: 9780195138023
• ISBN10: 0195138023
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2007-05-11
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

The most recent addition to the Fundamentals of Philosophy Series, Political Philosophy is a concise yet thorough and highly engaging introduction to the essential problems of the discipline. Organized topically and presented in a straightforward manner by an eminent political philosopher, A. John Simmons, it investigates the nature and basis of political authority and the structure and organization of political life. Each chapter focuses on a central problem, considers how it could be addressed, and outlines the various philosophical positions surrounding it. Covering both historical and contemporary work, this unique text offers a survey of major concepts and debates while also reflecting the author's views and contributions. Accessible to novices yet also useful for advanced students, Political Philosophy presents a unified and accessible portrait of the issues that have been puzzling political philosophers for years.

Author Biography

A. John Simmons is Commonwealth Professor of Philosophy and Professor of Law at the University of Virginia

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments	p. vii
Preface	p. ix
Morals and Politics	p. 1
Political Philosophy	p. 1
Moral Philosophy	p. 3
Political Society	p. 6
The Problems of Political Philosophy	p. 8
Ideal and Non-ideal	p. 11
The Book	p. 13
States?	p. 15
Why Have Political Societies?	p. 15
Justifying the State	p. 18
Hobbesian Games	p. 24
Anarchist Doubts	p. 33
Obligations	p. 39
The Problem of Political Obligation	p. 39
Justifying Obligation	p. 45
Associations, Transactions, and Natural Duties	p. 49
Anarchism Again	p. 62
Justice	p. 67
Justice in Political Philosophy	p. 67
Utility and Equality	p. 72
Rawls on Justice	p. 77
Merit and Entitlement	p. 88
Critical Traditions	p. 94
Democracy	p. 105
Justifying Democracy	p. 105
Democracy and Obligation	p. 112
Majorities and Representatives	p. 118
Participation and Deliberation	p. 124
The World of States	p. 128
An International State of Nature?	p. 128
Legitimacy and Territoriality	p. 134
Self-Determination and Secession	p. 143
Intervention and Assistance	p. 149
Notes	p. 158
Index	p. 176
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