Liberalism and republicanism in the historical imagination
By: Joyce Appleby.
Publisher: Harvard University Press
Published: 1992
Place of publication: Cambridge, Mass
Language: eng
Number of pages: 351
Subjects: Liberalism -- United States -- History -- 18th century; Republicanism -- United States -- History -- 18th century; United States -- Intellectual life -- 18th century; United States -- History -- Revolution, 1775-1783 -- Influence
Description: The author claims that liberal assumptions color everything American, from ideas about human nature to fears about big government. Not the dreaded "L" word of the 1988 presidential campaign; liberalism in its historical context emerged from the modern faith in free inquiry, natural rights, economic liberty, and democratic government. The author contrasts this view with classical republicanism--ornate, aristocratic, prescriptive, and concerned with the common good. The two concepts, as the author shows, posed choices in their day and in ours, specifically in addressing the complex relations between individual and community, personal liberty and the common good, aspiration and practical wisdom.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references and index.