A Dialogue Between a Philosopher and an English Common Law Scholar (Library of the Centuries)

Author: (English) Hobbes, translated by Mao Xiaoqiu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-08-01
Features: Hobbes' monumental work, Leviathan, focuses on the "politics-theology" theme, while this dialogue-based work set against the backdrop of the English Civil War addresses its lesser-known "politics-law" issues. The dialogue between the philosopher and the common law scholar reveals two main threads: one is the philosopher's effort to reform common law and ultimately subordinate it to the authority of the sovereign; the other, sparked by the topic of "The King in Parliament," explores the relationship between the British monarch and the British Parliament. Hobbes' late work initiates a dialogue between legal scholars and sovereigns, not only establishing a tradition in British jurisprudence but also gradually becoming part of the intellectual origins of American constitutional thought. This book serves to complement and refine a comprehensive understanding of Hobbes' political philosophy.