The significance of political thought cannot be overemphasised. The task of understanding the more profound implications of the present situation and future planning can be assisted by a careful study of the political thought of the ages. The study of political thought from a historical perspective leads to mature thinking and enables political leaders to solve contemporary problems in a better way. The political thought of the modern world is based on Western political thought. It is always preferred to begin the study of political thought with the Western thinkers, predominantly Greeks, because, unlike their Eastern counterparts, their speculations are exclusively contained in independent treatises and do not form part of literature which was mainly religious and ethical. Accordingly, this volume begins with Homer and includes prominent thinkers of the West of all ages—Plato, Aristotle, Aquinas, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Hume and Burke, to name a few. Analytically presented, this book is concise and easily comprehensible. Since pieces of evidence have been drawn from authentic originals and the books of eminent Western authors, it aptly caters to the academic needs of students of Political Science. It also includes a bibliography and a list of questions to aid in exam preparation. Teachers will find it an ideal reference, while general readers will find it both informative and engaging.
Political thinkers of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries sought a harmonious balance between the individual and the state, as well as between the state and the international human community. This research took many forms, including Utilitarianism, Idealism, Positivism, Socialism, Anarchism, Pluralism, Behavioralism, and Democracy. The era of classical political thought has passed, and today, there is a need for a more balanced, integrated perspective. While a universal political ideology is impossible, the principle of “multiplicity in unity” remains fundamental, particularly in political thought. Modern political thought must account for psychological, social, economic, ethical and spiritual factors. Therefore, a study of political thinkers from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries is essential. Western Political Thought, Volume II offers an in-depth analysis of influential political theorists from Bentham (1748–1832) to Russell (1872–1969), evaluating their contributions and their relevance in today's world. This book presents the material analytically, incorporating insights from their original works, and includes exam questions from various universities to familiarise students with contemporary examination trends. A comprehensive and concise study, it serves as an ideal textbook for postgraduate Political Science students and is aligned with most Indian university syllabi. Additionally, it provides valuable insights for teachers and general readers alike.<
Urmila Sharma is a recipient of four gold medals for her outstanding performance in MA. She obtained her PhD degree from Lucknow University and also received a UGC Research Fellowship. She has worked as a lecturer in the PG Department of Political Science at RG College, Meerut. She has been continuously engaged with research and writing work. Many of her books on Political Science, both in English and Hindi, have received an overwhelming response. In this respect, her work Humanism in Contemporary Indian Political Thought deserves particular mention.
S K Sharma, MΑ (History), ΜΑ (Political Science), LLB, PhD (London), taught Political Science to undergraduate and postgraduate students for three decades and retired as Head of the Department of Political Science, Meerut College, Meerut. Author of about fifty research papers, Dr Sharma has guided PhD research scholars and attended numerous seminars in India and abroad. He obtained a PhD degree from London University for his now-published work on Harold Laski.
