Readings from Liberal Writers

English and French

John Plamenatz

• Publisher: Routledge
• Year: 2025
• eBook ISBN: 9781040302521
• Topic: Philosophy
• Subtopic: Utilitarianism

Originally published in 1965, this volume provides selections of writings by English and French historians, philosophers and political scientists around the themes of freedom and opportunity; the functions of government; the spirit and machinery of free government; the freedom of thought and speech. The selections include Burke's speeches, Locke's Treatise of Civil Government, Mill on Liberty, Tocqueville on Democracy in America and Tawney on Equality. At a time in the 21st Century when freedom and democracy are under threat across the world, this book with its explanatory introduction by John Plamenatz has an enduring relevance.

Table of contents

• Cover Page
• Half Title page
• Title Page
• Copyright Page
• Original Title page
• Original Copyright Page
• Contents
• Notes on Three of the French Writers by the Editor
• Introduction
• Part One Freedom and Opportunity
• Part Two The Functions of Government and the Limits of Authority
• Part Three The Spirit and Machinery of Free Government
• Part Four Freedom of Thought and Utterance
• Part Five Freedom Endangered Dbnis Diderot