Republicanism is a centuries-old political tradition, yet its precise
meaning has long been contested. The term has been used to refer to
government in the public interest, to regimes administered by a
collective body or an elected president, and even just to systems
embodying the values of liberty and civic virtue. But what do we
really mean when we talk about republicanism?
In this new book, leading scholar Rachel Hammersley expertly and
accessibly introduces this complex but important topic. Beginning in the
ancient world, she traces the history of republican government in theory
and practice across the centuries in Europe and North America,
concluding with an analysis of republicanism in our contemporary
politics. She argues that republicanism is a dynamic political language,
with each new generation of thinkers building on the ideas of their
predecessors and adapting them in response to their own circumstances,
concerns, and crises.
This compelling account of the origins, history, and potential future of
one of the world's most enduring political ideas will be essential
reading for anyone with an interest in republicanism, from historians
and political theorists to politicians and ordinary citizens.
