Introducing Political Philosophy [Paperback]

Dave Robinson (Author), Judy Groves (Contributor)

Book Description

Series: Introducing | Publication Date: July 28, 2002

Introducing Political Philosophy explains the central concepts of this intriguing branch of philosophy. It also describes and evaluates the key ideas of all the major political theorists, from Plato to Foucault, who have tried to think systematically about human beings, societies, and the purpose of governments.

Product Details

• Paperback: 176 pages
• Publisher: Totem Books; Second Edition edition (July 28, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1840467606
• ISBN-13: 978-1840467604
• Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 5.5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.1 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,409,781 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Not Bad, But Not Outstanding Either, September 28, 2008

By 

Irfan A. Alvi (Towson, MD USA) - See all my reviews
(TOP 500 REVIEWER)    (VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Introducing Political Philosophy (Paperback)

It should first be noted that this book series is in a "semi-cartoon" format, so the real content of this book is equal to only about a 50-page text-only book. The book is therefore a quick read and strictly introductory.

The subject of political philosophy is inherently challenging, and I have yet to find a book on the subject which is truly clear. Most books give a tour of relevant people and ideas, often through a historical approach, but without a creating a coherent intellectual structure within which everything can be framed (some books do attempt this latter aim, but the ones I've seen so far tend to be overcomplicated and thus too obfuscating).

This book suffers from the same limitation and weakness, but the shortness of the book at least helps to focus it, and thus helps to boost its clarity.

Overall, all things considered, I would rate this book as a decent introduction to the topic, and its value is enhanced by the apparent lack of direct competitors.