Classics of Political Thought for Today: An Introduction

by Prof. Colin Farrelly

Humanity faces numerous critical challenges in the twenty-first century, from climate change and globalization to pandemics and the impact of technological advances. Can the ideas of past political thinkers help us refine the problem-solving skills needed to redress the practical predicaments of today? In Classics of Political Thought for Today, Colin Farrelly explores a wide range of historical political thinkers, demonstrating how the successes and limitations of these past figures can yield sage insights for how we identify and address the social and political problems of today. The book canvasses, and critically assesses, the ancient Greeks, social contract theory, conservatism, feminism, Black political thought, utilitarianism, and Marxism. Farrelly highlights the lessons we can learn from past political thinkers, engaging with their ideas in a way that facilitates the intellectual curiosity, insight, and optimism necessary for addressing the societal predicaments of today and tomorrow.

328 pages, Paperback

Published September 25, 2024

Reviews

[Jonathan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting to argue with at the very least. Also interesting that the author is Canadian. I feel like an American or Brit would have written about some of this very differently (with regard to liberalism).