Plato And Aristotle On Constitutionalism

First published in 1998, this volume compares the political ideals and ideas of Plato and Aristotle to examine whether they are relevant in that era of American constitutional crisis. The author, Raymond Polin, felt that debate had been hampered by focusing too strongly on America’s existing constitutional system, and hoped that exploring the roots of Western political tradition and alternative conceptions of constitutionalism might increase the kind of understanding humanity should seek. He considers concepts of constitutionalism, gives summary accounts of the philosophers’ lives and times, identify their key political ideas and reproduces some of their work verbatim, with the aim being to serve as a textbook for constitutional education. It will be of interest to teachers and students of the American system of government.

First published in 1998, this volume compares the political ideals and ideas of Plato and Aristotle to examine whether they are relevant in that era of American constitutional crisis. The author, Raymond Polin, felt that debate had been hampered by focusing too strongly on America's existing constitutional system, and hoped that exploring the roots of Western political tradition and alternative conceptions of constitutionalism might increase the kind of understanding humanity should seek. He considers concepts of constitutionalism, gives summary accounts of the philosophers' lives and times, identify their key political ideas and reproduces some of their work verbatim, with the aim being to serve as a textbook for constitutional education. It will be of interest to teachers and students of the American system of government.

Books V and VI of Aristotle's Politics constitute a manual on practical politics. In the fifth book Aristotle examines the causes of faction and constitutional change and suggests remedies for political instability. In the sixth book he offers practical advice to the statesman who wishes to establish, preserve, or reform a democracy or an oligarchy. He discusses many political issues, theoretical and practical, which are still widely debated today - revolution and reform, democracy and tyranny, freedom and equality. David Keyt presents a clear and accurate new translation of these books, together with a commentary which, though primarily philosophical, also supplies a key to Aristotle's many historical references. It is intended to guide readers toward a proper understanding of this classic text in the history of political thought, and is well suited to the needs of students, including those with no knowledge of Greek and little knowledge of Greek institutions and history.

Aristotle's treatments of revolution and property rights are also covered, and the major presuppositions of his political theory are critically examined and related to contemporary issues including the liberalism-communitarianism debate.

Kenyon, F.G., editor. Aristotle on the Constitution of Athens. [Athenaion Politeia]. Third and Revised Edition. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1892. lxvii, 229 pp. Reprinted 2003 by The Lawbook Exchange, Ltd. LCCN 2002024316. ISBN 1-58477-261-1. Cloth. $70. * Reprint of the third revised and expanded edition. A carefully edited anthology of passages in Greek from the Politics and other works, as well as fragmentary passages. With thorough annotations, notes and an extensive introduction in English.

The Politics is one of the most influential texts in the history of political thought, and it raises issues which still confront anyone who wants to think seriously about the ways in which human societies are organized and governed. The work of one of the world's greatest philosophers, it draws on Aristotle's own great knowledge of the political and constitutional affairs of the Greek cities. By examining the way societies are run - from households to city states - Aristotle establishes how successful constitutions can best be initiated and upheld. For this edition Sir Ernest Barker's fine translation, which has been widely used for nearly half a century, has been extensively revised to meet the needs of the modern reader. The accessible introduction and clear notes by R F Stalley examine the historical and philosophical background of the work and discuss its significance for modern political thought. ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.