Ten political ideas that have shaped the modern world

At a time when political labels are hurled carelessly in the public square, Sanford Lakoff provides a careful and highly accessible introduction to ten political ideas that have shaped modern thinking. Each chapter traces the history and examines the meaning of one of these ideas, clarifying its intent and impact by surveying its history and interpretation. By explaining what these ideas have come to mean, both those we may endorse and those we may deplore, Lakoff challenges readers' preconceptions and promotes critical thinking about the big questions of politics. Lakoff takes account of the belief that major ideas are apt to be "essentially contested" but contends that in many cases disputes about the meaning of political ideas can be resolved or at least considerably clarified.