Jacques Maritain: The Philosopher in Society (20th Century Political Thinkers) [Paperback]

James V. Schall (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0847686841 | ISBN-13: 978-0847686841 | Publication Date: March 12, 1998

The engaging and inquiring mind of French philosopher Jacques Maritain reflected on subjects as varied as art and ethics, theology and psychology, and history and metaphysics. Maritain's work on the theoretical groundings of politics arose from his diverse studies. In this book, distinguished theologian and political scientist James V. Schall explores Maritain's political philosophy, demonstrating that Maritain understood society, state, and government in the tradition of Aristotle and Aquinas, of natural law and human rights and duties. Schall pays particular attention to the ways in which evil appears in political forms, and how this evil can be morally dealt with. Schall's study will be of great importance to students and scholars of political science, philosophy, and theology.

Editorial Reviews

Review

Clear and solid. . . . A very valuable contribution to political philosophy. (Gerald A. McCool, S.J. International Philosophical Quarterly, Feb 1999 )

Schall's work is the first major exposition of Maritain's political thought in English. Schall's masterful teaching skill and exceptional writing ability enables his monograph to transcend the gaping hole in Maritain studies. A faithful exposition of his teaching. Anyone who has been looking for a book on Maritain's social and political thought should jump for joy at this work. I can think of no other book that so clearly and concisely presents Maritain's essential social and political thought. (Peter A. Redpath The Maritain Notebook: The Amer. Maritain Assoc. Newsletter )

Richly rewarding. . . . The value of Schall's study lies not only in presenting Maritain as a better guide than other modern philosophers but also in showing us how to read Maritain--giving us a guide to the guide. (Robert P. Kraynak The Journal Of Politics, August 1999, Vol. 61 No. 3 )

James V. Schall offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking introduction to the political thought of this influential French thinker in Jacques Maritain: The Philosopher in Society. (Guerra, Marc D. Fellowship Of Catholic Scholars Quarterly )

It would be hard to improve upon the choice of Fr. Schall, professor of government at Georgetown University, and a philosopher, theologian, and political scientist of considerable distinction, to escort us through the rich and often challenging politicalwritings of this great Catholic thinker. Professor Schall does an admirable job in taking the complex thought of Maritain and rendering it not only easy to follow, but, at times, almost inevitable. We can be greatfull that Fr. Schall has provided uswith this readable and instructive introdction to Maritain's political philosophy. It is a philosophy that is sufficiently rich that it provides considerable benefits for its students, quite apart from the issue of whether or not it can be implemented politically.. (Donald DeMarco Homiletic & Pastoral Review )

This book brings the considerable talents of the Reverand James V. Schall, S.J., to bear on the writings of an important and influential figure in Roman Catholic Political Philosophy (Glen Ellmers Religion And Liberty, Nov. And Dec. 1998, Vol. 8, N0.6 )

It would be hard to improve upon the choice of Fr. Schall, professor of government at Georgetown University, and a philosopher, theologian, and political scientist of considerable distinction, to escort us through the rich and often challenging political writings of this great Catholic thinker. Professor Schall does an admirable job in taking the complex thought of Maritain and rendering it not only easy to follow, but, at times, almost inevitable. We can be greatfull that Fr. Schall has provided us with this readable and instructive introdction to Maritain's political philosophy. It is a philosophy that is sufficiently rich that it provides considerable benefits for its students, quite apart from the issue of whether or not it can be implemented politically. (Donald DeMarco Homiletic & Pastoral Review )

Commendable work. (The Review Of Metaphysics )

The book's significant merits as a careful reading of the Maritain corpus. In responding to the student at the Fides et Ratio conference, Cardinal George observed that the totality of knowledge and wisdom, including fides, must be brought to bear on our political, social, and cultural problems. Schall's book is certainly a significant contribution to that quest. (The Journal Of Religion )

About the Author

James V. Schall is professor of government at Georgetown University. He is the author of numerous books, including At the Limits of Political Philosophy: From 'Brilliant Errors' to Things of Uncommon Importance, Does Catholicism Still Exist?, and Reason, Revelation, and the Foundations of Political Philosophy.

Product Details

• Paperback: 272 pages
• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers (March 12, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0847686841
• ISBN-13: 978-0847686841
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.9 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.5 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #696,089 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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