Western Political Thought: From Socrates to the Age of Ideology (2nd Edition) - Softcover

Nelson, Brian R.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0131911724 ISBN 13: 9780131911727

Publisher: Pearson, 1995

Synopsis

Written simply and directly — but without sacrificing intellectual depth — this book presents the basic terms, ideas, and dilemmas of Western political thought through an in-depth analysis of a limited number of major thinkers — from the pre-Socratics to the contemporary era. It views the thinkers in historical context and examines them in terms of the changing relationships of ethics and politics in Western political philosophy. The book deals with each thinker in detail — explains basic concepts in depth, and draws out and analyzes the implications of various political theories; organizes theorists historically — from pre-Socratic philosophers to those of the contemporary era — with general historical context provided for each; explores an overarching theme throughout — the changing relationships of ethics and politics in Western political thought from Socrates to the present time.

About this title

From the Publisher:

Written simply and directly -- but without sacrificing intellectual depth -- this text presents the basic terms, ideas, and dilemmas of Western political thought through an in-depth analysis of a limited number of major thinkers -- from the pre-Socratics to the contemporary era. It views the thinkers in historical context and examines them in terms of the changing relationships of ethics and politics in Western political philosophy.

Review:

"Waveland's decision to pick up the book and price it affordably does my future students a real service. In my view, Nelson has written the best introduction to political thought when judged by its thoroughness of treatment, clarity of presentation, significance of content, and attention to scholarship." --Wes Martin, Keene State College

"Nelson's text is a contemporary classic. It explains the major concepts of each philosopher's political theory in a sophisticated way and yet is accessible to the beginner." --Sharon Murphy, Nazareth College

"Well-organized, in-depth, no-nonsense text at a good price." --Margaret Cecere, Lord Fairfax Community College

About this edition

• Publisher: Pearson
• Publication date: 1995
• ISBN 10: 0131911724
• ISBN 13: 9780131911727
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 393