Political philosophy - Mel Thompson

Teach Yourself Political Philosophy is a fascinating guide to the principles upon which our legal and political systems are founded. It explores the key political concepts that underpin our society (what exactly is freedom? what makes us think democracy is the best form of government? where is the balance between rights and responsibilities?) and unravels fundamental political and economic theories such as capitalism, Marxism, conservatism and anarchism. Each of these concepts and theories are put into context by looking at the key figures in political thought from Aristotle and Hobbes to Rawls and Wollstonecraft. Political Philosophy need not be confined to the past or the realms of academia - this book brings the issues to life and discusses the questions raised daily by our politicians, their critics and the media. Is political philosophy dead? How does political philosophy shed light on environmentalism, multi-culturalism and globalization? What are human rights?