The Political Theory of The Federalist

The Political Theory of The Federalist by David F. Epstein. Hardcover edition. ISBN: 9780226212999.

In The Political Theory of â The Federalist,â David F. Epstein offers a guide to the fundamental principles of American government as they were understood by the framers of the Constitution. Epstein here demonstrates the remarkable depth and clarity of The Federalistâ s argument, reveals its specifically political (not merely economic) view of human nature, and describes how and why the American regime combines liberal and republican values. â While it is a model of scholarly care and clarity, this study deserves an audience outside the academy. . . . David F. Epsteinâ s book is a fine demonstration of just how much a close reading can accomplish, free of any flights of theory or fancy references.â â New Republic â Epsteinâ s strength lies in two aspects of his own approach. One is that he reads the text with uncommon closeness and sensitivity; the other is an extensive knowledge of the European political thought which itself forms an indispensable background to the minds of the authors.â â Times Literary Supplement