Using Political Ideas

by B G O O D W I N (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  1992

  $3.25

  This text on political theory is divided into two sections. The first part examines ideologies, such as Marxism, anarchism and totalitarianism, while the second part looks at such specific ideas as democracy, power, freedom and social justice. Changes in Eastern Europe are reflected in this edition, but the chapters on Marxism and socialism have been retained since left-wing thought still provides a necessary challenge to liberal democratic thinking. In this edition the author has included examples to demonstate that restraints on exploitation of natural resources are urgently needed for the preservation of the environment, thus refuting any notion that a free-market ideology can rationally expect the support of reflective voters; She suggests that ecological arguments need to be evaluated as part of the process of criticism of other, more established ideologies.

• Used

  Paperback
  1997

  $4.19

  I asked my students about their views on this book. All of them agreed that its strength is its readability and comprehensive coverage of the main issues in a study of political ideologies and ideas. Goodwins was the book to which my students turned first to find out what the questions under discussion were all about. The strengths of the book are such that a fourth edition is most welcome. Lecturer, Aberdeen University Have we a duty to conserve the worlds resources for future generations? Does the majority have the right to dictate to minorities in a multicultural society? Is equality more important than personal freedom? Is nationalism a progressive force in the world? This book is of unique interest for everyone concerned with such questions. It offers a critique of contemporary political ideologies and an analysis of the ideas and concepts which we use in political arguments. By revealing the interplay between ideas and ideologies, it shows us why political opponents so often seem to argue at cross-purposes. The book emphasizes the relationship between ideologies, political ideas and day-to-day politics, and shows how political ideas influence not only argument but also political behaviour. The author stresses the importance of theoretical analysis for understanding the political world and for criticizing the ideas and agencies which govern our lives. Using Political Ideas has been strongly influential in the teaching of political philosophy since it was first published in 1982. Professor Goodwins lucid style and avoidance of technical jargon make her work accessible to a wide readership. This fourth edition of the book contains two important new chapters, on feminism and Green political thought, and the whole book has been revised to reflect the effect of contemporary events on political thinking. It is an immensely valuable and sophisticated book, while also accessible: Ive been dipping around in it, and shall continue to dip! Ben Pimlott, Professor of Politics and Contemporary History, University of London.