Customer Reviews

A History of Western Political Thought

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Non-specialists often shun political philosophy because the primary texts can be unbearably dull. Is there anyone, save the Marxian fanatic, who would argue that Karl Marx wrote with clarity and grace? English speaking readers often find even the great English political philosophers, such as John Stuart Mill, to be somniferous. Thus, a well-written history of Western political philosophy is not only welcome, but it is a relief. McClelland's "A History of Western Political Thought" is such a book. McClelland not only writes well, but he presents the story of political philosophy in an interesting and enjoyable way. Both the specialist and the general reader will profit from this book.

This history of political thought (broadly understood) in the west from the classical greeks to today is superb. Using plain language, McClelland surveys the different ideas about society that has occurred in the west for the last 2500 years, why these ideas were developed in the first place, against what they were reacting, etc. In a way, this book is much more a history of culture and civilization than a history of politics.

This is a great book to gain a better understanding of the various concepts of western politcal thought...its sparknotes for any poli sci major, but on an intellectual level...its a great book.