1st Edition

Political Thinking Exploring the World through Theory and Concepts

By Paul Graham Copyright 2027
718 Pages
by Routledge

718 Pages
by Routledge

This essential textbook provides a through, engaging and illuminating introduction to political concepts and theories, allowing for an in-depth exploration of key arguments, issues and topics facing the world in the 21st century. By encouraging students to define concepts carefully, weigh evidence for and against a position, and develop a structured argument, it provides a clear framework to see... Read more

Introduction: Political Thinking

Part 1: Living Together

1. Sovereignty, the State, and Political Obligation

2. Disobedience

3. Democracy

Part 2: Freedom and Coercion 

4. Freedom

5. Harm and Consent

6. Paternalism

7. Freedom of Speech

8. Freedom of Association

9. Punishment

Part 3: Equality and Distributive Justice  

10. Equality

11. Distributive Justice

12. Sex and Distributive Justice

13. Race and Distributive Justice

14. Animals and Distributive Justice

Part 4: Global Politics 

15. International justice

16. War

17. Resources, Climate, and Justice between Generations

18. Migration

Part 5: Remaking Humanity 

19. Genetic Engineering

20. Artificial Intelligence

Biography

Paul Graham is a Senior Lecturer in Political Theory at the University of Buckingham, UK.

“Graham's book achieves a very difficult balancing act. It is a work of high quality and sophisticated analytical political theory. At the same time, the writing is very clear and accessible, suitable for the general reader as well as undergraduates. The use of countless examples to illustrate themes is a particular joy. I highly recommend the book.”

Robert Garner, University of Leicester, UK

“This book by Paul Graham is a masterpiece for anyone interested in politics. It should be essential reading for university instructors seeking to help students develop their analytical skills. The concrete case studies presented throughout the book demonstrate that political theory and political thinking are not merely abstract concepts but have practical applications in real-world contexts.”

Katarzyna Stoklosa, University of Southern Denmark