Philosophy

An intellectual portrait of the iconic 19th-century slave and abolitionist who took the lead in applying the Founders’ doctrine of natural rights to the plight of African Americans. Reveals how Douglass’s vision still guides contemporary liberalism.

Nineteenth-century psychologist and pragmatist philosopher William James is rarely considered a political theorist. This first book by a political theorist devoted exclusively to James's theory argues that political concerns were in fact central to his intellectual work.

By tracing the birth of the idea of cultural pluralism to its Midwestern roots during the tumultuous years surrounding World War I, Horace M. Kallen in the Heartland provides fresh historical context to recurring waves of white nativism and exclusionary nationalism that continue a century later.

Provides a bold thesis that the current crisis of democracy can be traced back to a fateful transformation of democratic theory during the early stages of the Cold War.

Drawing on the work of Aristotle, Aquinas, Edmund Burke, and John Finnis, A Vindication of Politics argues for the intrinsic value of political association. Rather than an activity defined by law and government, politics emerges as a cultural enterprise that connects generations and ennobles our common life.

This book sheds new light on the conservative movement in America by focusing on those right-wing movements that exist outside the mainstream political debate.

A thought-provoking critical survey of the evidence for life after death that is reflective, wide-ranging, and witty. Covers near-death and out-of-body experiences, reincarnation, and transitional states of consciousness. Draws on a diverse array of scientific, religious, philosophical, psychological, literary, and even cinematic approaches in its exploration of the engrossing topic of life after death.

The first book on the political thought of John C. Calhoun pays close attention to his advocacy of consensus rule. A respectful but critical look at Calhoun's rationale, which upheld states' rights to maintain slaves—ultimately contributing to secession and war.

Examines what it means to be a responsible professional, including the sorts of things thoughtful, conscientious people ought to perceive and care about.