Priestley: Political Writings

A collection of the work of Joseph Priestley, arguably one of the most important political theorists of the English Enlightenment.

Joseph Priestley (Author), Peter Miller (Edited by)

9780521425612, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 3 June 1993

192 pages
21.5 x 13.8 x 1 cm, 0.256 kg

Joseph Priestley (1733–1804) was arguably one of the most important and interesting English theorists to focus on the issue of political liberty during the English Enlightenment. His concept of freedom is of crucial importance to two of the major issues of his day: the right of dissenters to religious toleration, and the right of the American colonists to self-government. Despite the fundamental importance of both these themes in liberal political theory and their contemporary relevance to national self-determination, Priestley's writings lack a modern edition. This new collection will be the first to make accessible to students Priestleys' Essay on the First Principles and The Present State of Liberty, which encapsulate his political ideology. An introduction and notes, together with guides to further reading and key figures in the text provide the student with all the material necessary for approaching Priestley.

Acknowledgements
Introduction
Chronology of Joseph Priestley's life
Biographical guide
Bibliographical guide
Essay on the First Principles
The Present State of Liberty
Index.

Subject Areas: History of ideas [JFCX]