Joseph Priestley

An Essay on the First Principles of Government (eBook, ePUB)

Exploring the Philosophical Foundations of Governance in the Enlightenment Era

• Format: ePub

Produktbeschreibung

In "An Essay on the First Principles of Government," Joseph Priestley engages in a profound exploration of political philosophy, articulating the foundational elements that underpin legitimate governance. Written in the late 18th century, amidst the Enlightenment'Äôs fervor for reason and individual rights, Priestley's work promotes a rational discourse on democracy and represents a reaction against tyranny. Employing an accessible style interwoven with rigorous argumentation, he asserts that the primary purpose of government is to secure the greatest possible happiness for its citizenry, advocating for a model rooted in both ethical principles and the consent of the governed. Joseph Priestley, an eminent scientist and theologian, was deeply influenced by the sociopolitical dynamics of his time, including the American and French Revolutions. His background in natural philosophy and commitment to Enlightenment ideals informed his perspective on governance, prompting him to challenge established authorities and provide a framework for a more egalitarian political order. Priestley'Äôs diverse scholarly pursuits, ranging from chemistry to theology, enabled him to approach the subject with a unique interdisciplinary lens. This seminal work is essential reading for scholars of political theory and history alike. Priestley'Äôs insights resonate powerfully in today'Äôs climate of governance debates and can guide contemporary discussions on democratic principles. Readers will find that his rigorous argumentation and unwavering commitment to human rights make this essay not only relevant but invaluable.

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Produktdetails

• Verlag: Good Press
• Seitenzahl: 130
• Erscheinungstermin: 11. April 2021
• Englisch
• ISBN-13: 4064066443269
• Artikelnr.: 61707144

Autorenporträt

English scientist, theologian, and political theorist Joseph Priestley (1733-1804) made numerous contributions to chemistry, physics, and philosophy. Priestley, who was raised in Birstall, West Yorkshire, attended local schools before going to Daventry Academy, where he became very interested in natural philosophy. Priestley made significant scientific advances. His greatest-known distxtery, made in 1774, was oxygen, which he dubbed "dephlogisticated air." His investigations into gases and their characteristics, which are detailed in "Experiments and Observations on Different Kinds of Air," greatly enhanced our knowledge of chemistry. Priestley also studied nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide, among other gases. In addition to his scientific interests, Priestley was a prolific writer on theological and political topics as well as a dissident clergyman. He received criticism for his Unitarian beliefs and his perceived radical religious ideas. Priestley was a liberal and democratic idealist whose political writings shaped the early American history.

Inhaltsangabe

Preface
Introduction
1. Of political liberty
2. Of civil liberty
3. Of the progress of societies towards a state of greater perfection.