Foundations of American Political Thought: Readings and Commentary

American political thought was shaped by republicanism,liberalism,and covenant theology, with each chapter including primary sources and commentary to explain the historical context and significance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 419 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

American political thought was profoundly shaped by a remarkable confluence of theoretical influences, including republicanism, liberalism, and covenant theology. This comprehensive reader delves into the intricate interplay of these influences, tracing their historical development from the arrival of the Puritans in the New World to the Civil War. Organized chronologically, each chapter presents carefully selected primary sources and substantial commentary to elucidate the historical context and significance of the excerpts. By centering the analysis on the distinct assumptions of the people—the republican understanding as a unified corporate entity and the liberal understanding as a diverse multitude of individuals—that intertwined during the founding, the book offers a coherent interpretative framework.

In addition to its focus on American political thought, this reader also includes two chapters on non-American authors who were widely quoted during the era and who captured the core principles of republicanism and liberalism. These chapters provide valuable insights into the broader international discourse on political philosophy. Furthermore, the book includes excerpts from lesser-known sources, such as Puritan covenants, the first state constitutions, and Native American speeches, which shed light on the diverse range of influences that shaped American political thought.

Overall, this reader is an essential resource for scholars and students interested in exploring the rich tapestry of political ideas that contributed to the formation of the United States. It offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the historical and theoretical foundations of American politics, providing a valuable foundation for further research and discussion.

Weight: 790g
Dimension: 176 x 255 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108733557