For centuries past, the quest for liberty has driven political movements across the globe, inspiring revolutions in America, France, China and many other countries. Now, we have Iraq and the idea of liberation through preemption. What is this liberty that is so fervently pursued? Does it mean a private space for individuals, the capacity for free and rational choice, or collective self-rule? What is the difference between positive and negative liberty, or the relationship between freedom and coercion? Reflecting on these questions reveals a surprisingly rich landscape of ideas - and further questions. "The Liberty Reader" collects twelve of the most important and insightful essays on issues of freedom currently available. It is essential reading for students of social and political theory, political philosophy, and anyone who wants a deeper understanding of the variety of ideas and ideals behind perennial human strivings for liberty.
Author(s): David Miller
Edition: 1
Publisher: Routledge
Year: 2006
Language: English
City: New York
Cover
Half Title
Title Page
Copyright Page
Table of Contents
Introduction
1. Liberal Legislation and Freedom of Contract
2. Two Concepts of Liberty
3. Freedom and Politics
4. Freedom and Coercion
5. Negative and Positive Freedom
6. Individual Liberty
7. What’s Wrong with Negative Liberty
8. Capitalism, Freedom, and the Proletariat
9. Constraints on Freedom
10. Toward a Feminist Theory of Freedom
11. The Republican Ideal of Freedom
12. A Third Concept of Liberty
Selected Bibliography
Index
About the Editor and Contributors
