The Elements of Politics

An examination of theoretical and practical aspects of governance, published in 1891 by one of Britain's leading political philosophers.

Henry Sidgwick (Author)

9781108043939, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 26 January 2012

670 pages
21.6 x 14 x 3.8 cm, 0.84 kg

One of the most influential of the Victorian philosophers, Henry Sidgwick (1838–1900) also made important contributions to fields such as economics, political theory and classics. A proponent of the utilitarianism of Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, which he analysed in his classic work The Methods of Ethics (1874; also reissued in this series), he later turned to the practical side of politics in this work, published in 1891. His aim was to have a 'rational discussion of political questions in modern states', and he offers a thorough examination of Victorian politics, beginning with a discussion of political theory before moving on to more concrete matters such as property and law. The later chapters discuss the function of government through themes such as procedural matters, international affairs, war, political parties, and public participation, giving a comprehensive account of both ideas about and the functioning of late-nineteenth-century government.

Preface
Part I: 1. Scope and method of politics
2. Fundamental conception of politics
3. General principles of legislation
4. Individualism and individualism minimum
5. On property
6. Contract
7. Inheritance
8. Remedies for wrongs
9. Prevention of mischief and paternal interference
10. Socialistic interference
11. The maintenance of government
12. Governmental encroachments and compensation
13. Law and morality
14. The area of government - states and districts
15. Principles of international duty
16. The regulation of war
17. International law and morality
18. Principles of external policy
Part II: 19. Methods and instruments of government
20. The legislature
21. The executive
22. Relation of legislature to executive
23. Two chambers and their functions
24. The judiciary and its relation to other organs
25. Local and sectional government
26. Federal and other composite states
27. The control of the people over government
28. The state and voluntary associations
29. Parties and party government
30. Classification of governments
31. Sovereignty and order
Index.

Subject Areas: Social & political philosophy [HPS]