In this major 2003 study of the foundations of modern political theory the eminent political philosopher Ross Harrison explains, analyzes, and criticizes the work of Hobbes, Locke, and their contemporaries. He provides a full account of the turbulent historical background that shaped the political, intellectual, and religious content of this philosophy. The book explores such questions as the limits of political authority and the relation of the legitimacy of government to the will of its people in non-technical, accessible prose that will appeal to students of philosophy, politics, theology and history.
Introduction; 1. The word; 2. The great beast Leviathan; 3. The state of nature's law; 4. The birth of justice; 5. War and peace; 6. Locke's law; 7. Disobedient Locke; 8. The key to Locke's property; 9. Why utility pleases.
