Synopses & Reviews
In 1974, Robert Nozick's book Anarchy, State, and Utopia moved libertarianism from a relatively neglected subset of political philosophy to the center of the discipline, as one of the most cogent critiques of social democracy and egalitarian liberalism.
Nozick developed a rights-based account of libertarianism to show that a minimal state can legitimately arise, that nothing more than a minimal state is justified, and that the minimal state is not only morally right, but can also be an inspiring 'meta-utopia'. This volume presents Nozick's contributions to political philosophy in the context of his work in analytical philosophy. It also provides a biography of Nozick and considers the initial reception and long-term influence of his work.
Synopsis
Volume 11 of the Conservative and Libertarian Thinkers series focuses on Robert Nozick and his work on libertarianism.
Synopsis
Synopsis
Volume 11 of the Conservative and Libertarian Thinkers series focuses on Robert Nozick and his work on libertarianism.
Synopsis
Synopsis
In 1974, Robert Nozick's book Anarchy, State, and Utopia moved libertarianism from a relatively neglected subset of political philosophy to the center of the discipline, as one of the most cogent critiques of social democracy and egalitarian liberalism.
Nozick developed a rights-based account of libertarianism to show that a minimal state can legitimately arise, that nothing more than a minimal state is justified, and that the minimal state is not only morally right, but can also be an inspiring 'meta-utopia'. This volume presents Nozick's contributions to political philosophy in the context of his work in analytical philosophy. It also provides a biography of Nozick and considers the initial reception and long-term influence of his work.
About the Author
Ralf M. Bader read Philosophy, Politics and Economics at the University of Oxford (St Edmund Hall), gaining a First Class degree. Having completed an MLitt in Philosophy with Distinction at the University of St Andrews, he is now working on his PhD at St Andrews and is currently a visiting researcher in the Philosophy Department at Stanford University.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Biography Nozick's life Nozick's approach to philosophyChapter 2: Critical Exposition The Moral Foundation Rights considered as side constraints The basis of libertarian side constraints Against Anarchy State of nature theorizing From anarchy to the minimal state Nothing More Than the Minimal State Theories of justice Against patterns Moral luck, equality and entitlements The Minimal State as an Inspiring Utopia The best possible world Individuality, diversity and the minimal state Beyond Anarchy, State, and UtopiaChapter 3: Reception and Influence Critique of rights-based libertarianism Against the legitimate state More than the minimal state? Problems with the meta-utopia Chapter 4: Relevance Rights-based libertarianism Taking anarchism seriously Justice and entitlements The meta-utopiaBibliographyIndex