History of Political Philosophy

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Summary: The standard text of Political Philosophy
Review: This is the best all around book on the great political philosophers of western culture. It is not light reading, nor is it easily accessable, but it is complete and well balanced. Every poltical science student / teacher should own this book.

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Summary: Good Book - Just be Aware of Strauss's Influence
Review: This is the source. Strauss and Cropsey certainly have compiled the authoritative reference for political philosophy. This is great for beginners and also seasoned scholars. There is a chapter on just about any philosopher you could imagine in here. Clearly-written essays provide for a greater understanding of each one.

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Summary: Essential Political Philosophy
Review: This is the source. Strauss and Cropsey certainly have compiled the authoritative reference for political philosophy. This is great for beginners and also seasoned scholars. There is a chapter on just about any philosopher you could imagine in here. Clearly-written essays provide for a greater understanding of each one.

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Summary: A roadmap for the amateur political philosopher
Review: While written as a textbook, this is a good guidebook for the person who needs an introduction to western political thought. It is a most effective tool if you actually have access to the writings of the philosophers discussed in the book. I followed the footnotes to the original writings, and it helped me understand the topic more thoroughly. For someone who lacks a formal education in philosophy or political science, this book offers such a strong foundation that a thorough "self-education" is quite possible.