In the 17th century, political philosophy was widely practised as a discipline adhering to the psychological-realist school. Whereby, theories of governance and the state were theorised based on what humans are, not as what the state ‘wants them to be’ (Spinoza, Tractactus Politicus 1/1). The...
When we talk about American history, particularly the late 19th and early 20th centuries, one movement that often gets overlooked is the American Anti-Imperialist League. Established in 1898, this organization came together as a response to America’s burgeoning imperial ambitions, especially in the wake of...
Authoritarianism is a type of government where all the power is concentrated in one central authority, and people’s political freedoms are limited. It’s often linked with a lack of transparency, restrictions on civil liberties, and no democratic processes. There’s a big debate among scholars and...
Niccolò Machiavelli is a name that often stirs up a mix of admiration and controversy. As one of the most significant figures of the Renaissance, his contributions extend far beyond his famous work, “The Prince.” To understand Machiavelli’s role during this transformative period in history,...
The quest to delineate the freedom definition within the ambit of modern political philosophy presents a rich tapestry of debate and discourse. This exploration is not just academic; it fundamentally shapes the ethos of democratic societies, influencing how justice, equity, and liberty are interpreted and...
Thomas Paine’s ‘Rights of Man’ is one of those texts that remains as relevant today as it was back in the late 18th century. Published in two parts in 1791 and 1792, this work is not only a powerful defense of the French Revolution but...
Communism and fascism are two political ideologies that have shaped the course of history in the 20th century. While they may appear to be polar opposites, they share several similarities in their methods of governance and control. This essay will compare and contrast communism and...
Introduction to Plato’s Ideal Society When we dive into the world of philosophy, one name that inevitably comes up is Plato. This ancient Greek thinker had some pretty revolutionary ideas about what an ideal society should look like. His vision, encapsulated primarily in his work...
The concept of “the end of history” has sparked intense debate and contemplation among scholars, philosophers, and thinkers in recent decades. Coined by political scientist Francis Fukuyama, this notion suggests that humanity has reached the endpoint of its ideological evolution, signifying the triumph of liberal...
When we think about communication, especially in the context of influencing people’s opinions and behaviors, two terms often come up: propaganda and persuasion. While they might seem similar on the surface, they actually diverge significantly in their intent, methods, and ethical implications. In this essay,...
In modern society, the political landscape is dominated by two major ideologies: modern liberalism and modern conservatism. These two ideologies have distinct beliefs and values that shape their approach to governance, social issues, and economic policies. This essay will explore the differences between modern liberalism...
Confederate systems have always intrigued political theorists and historians alike, largely because of the unique balance they attempt to strike between centralized authority and regional autonomy. A prominent example of this is the Confederate States of America (CSA), which emerged during the American Civil War....
In the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance, Italy was a divided and war-torn country. Great thinkers of the time sought to find solutions to strengthen the country’s power. One such thinker was Niccolo Machiavelli, a diplomat, philosopher, and writer. Machiavelli’s most famous work, “The...
American politics, if you look back, has these crazy times called critical realignments. These are not your usual election seasons but huge changes that flip everything – the parties, who votes for them, what policies they push. It’s like a whole new story for the...
When we think about the Declaration of Independence, it’s easy to picture that iconic moment in history where leaders of the American colonies decided to break free from British rule. But have you ever taken a deeper look at what this document actually contains? The...
Locke and Hobbes: A Comparison When discussing political philosophy, two names that often come up are John Locke and Thomas Hobbes. While they may have had differing views on certain aspects, there are also some striking similarities between the two thinkers. One of the key...
The Origins of the Terms When we think about patriotism and the sacrifices that come with it, certain terms resonate more than others. Two such terms are “Summer Soldier” and “Sunshine Patriot.” Both phrases have a rich historical background, originating from a tumultuous period in...
Understanding the Historical Context When we dive into the foundations of American political thought, two groups inevitably come to mind: the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists. These factions emerged during a critical period in U.S. history—the drafting and ratification of the Constitution in the late 18th...
Niccolò Machiavelli, a name synonymous with political intrigue and cunning, has left an indelible mark on the landscape of political thought during the Renaissance and beyond. His most famous work, “The Prince,” has sparked debates, controversies, and even admiration for centuries. But how exactly did...
Niccolò Machiavelli, an Italian philosopher and writer, was known for his controversial and complex understanding of politics and morality. In his renowned work, The Prince, Machiavelli promoted the idea that leaders should prioritize the stability and security of their states over traditional moral values. This...
Understanding the Trustee Model of Representation The concept of representation in a democracy is a topic that has sparked numerous debates and discussions among political theorists, students, and everyday citizens alike. One of the most notable models is the trustee model of representation. This idea...
Introduction to Enlightenment Thinkers When diving into the rich ocean of Enlightenment philosophy, one cannot help but notice the interconnectedness of ideas among various thinkers. Mary Wollstonecraft, John Locke, Adam Smith, and Voltaire each brought unique perspectives to the table, yet their core concepts often...
The influence of the English Bill of Rights on the U.S. Constitution is a fascinating topic that reveals how historical documents shape modern governance. To truly understand this influence, we need to dive into both texts and explore their similarities, differences, and the broader implications...
Absolutism, as a political theory, says that one ruler should have all the power over the state and its people. But, some smart folks like John Locke, Voltaire, and Mary Wollstonecraft didn’t agree with that. They had different ideas about how things should be run...
The Roots of Government Authority When we think about where a government derives its power, it’s important to look back at one of the most significant documents in American history: the Declaration of Independence. Written in 1776, this declaration did not just announce the colonies’...
Declaration of Independence
American History
Political Philosophy
Introduction to Wilson’s Vision of Freedom When we talk about war, especially in the context of history and ideology, one name that often comes up is Woodrow Wilson. The 28th President of the United States, Wilson was not just a politician; he was a thinker...
When discussing political systems, few topics generate as much debate as monarchy. This age-old institution has been a part of human civilization for centuries, with its roots often tracing back to ancient times. While some people view monarchy as an outdated relic that has no...
Liberty is a concept that has been debated and discussed for centuries, with various interpretations and perspectives. At its core, liberty is often equated with freedom, but what does this truly mean? In this essay, we will explore the definition of liberty as freedom, considering...
The Context of the Louisiana Purchase When we think about the Louisiana Purchase, it’s often celebrated as a monumental moment in American history. In 1803, President Thomas Jefferson made a deal with France to acquire over 800,000 square miles of territory for just $15 million....
Introduction: The Enduring Legacy of Machiavelli Niccolò Machiavelli, a Renaissance thinker often viewed as the father of modern political science, has had a profound impact on Enlightenment thought. His most famous work, “The Prince,” is notorious for its pragmatic approach to politics and power. While...
