American Political Thought

Readings and Materials

American Political Thought: Readings and Materials (New York: Oxford University Press, 2016) Buy It!

Table of Contents

Companion website with supplemental materials

American Political Thought: Readings and Materials presents a diverse collection of writings, speeches, judicial opinions, and other political documents, offering an introduction to the controversies and disputes that have mobilized Americans since the first settlements in North America. Ranging from the Colonial era to the present day-and featuring both traditional readings and lesser-known documents-this reader takes a historical approach that helps students see how political, economic, and social conditions led to the development of specific political ideas. Each chapter includes a substantial introduction and each reading is enriched by headnotes and discussion questions.

"The most thorough treatment of American political thought currently available." -- Kara E. Stooksbury, Carson-Newman University

"American Political Thought illuminates how ideas have shaped our politics." -- George Thomas, Claremont McKenna College

"This text that provides a succinct background on the forces that have shaped American political development, situating key debates about American values and patterns of social relations within the relevant historical and institutional environments." -- Gary Lee Malecha, University of Portland