An Introduction to Political Philosophy

Now revised and updated and containing several entirely new chapters, this book provides a comprehensive introduction to political philosophy. It discusses historical and contemporary figures and covers a vast range of topics and debates, including immigration, war, national and global economics, the ethical and political implications of climate change, and the persistence of racial oppression and injustice. It also presents accessible, non-technical discussions of perfectionism, utilitarianism, theories of the social contract, and the Marxian tradition of social criticism. Real-life examples introduce students to ways of using philosophical reflection and debates, and open up new perspectives on politics and political issues. Throughout, this book challenges readers to think critically about political arguments and institutions that they might otherwise take for granted. It will be a vital and provocative resource for any student of philosophy or political science.

Author Biography

Colin Bird is Associate Professor of Politics at the University of Virginia. He is the author of The Myth of Liberal Individualism (Cambridge, 1999), and his work has also appeared in numerous major academic journals including Ethics, Philosophy and Public Affairs, The American Political Science Review, Political Theory, Polity, and The European Journal of Philosophy.