Romantic Rationalist : a William Godwin Reader by Marshall, Peter instant download

Romantic Rationalist : a William Godwin Reader by Marshall, Peter instant download

1 online resource (193), William Godwin (1756-1836) was one of the first exponents of utilitarianism and the first modern proponent of anarchism. He was not only a radical philosopher but a pioneer in libertarian education, a founder of communist economics, and an acute and powerful novelist whose literary family included his partner, pioneering feminist writer Mary Wollstonecraft, and his daughter Mary Godwin (later Mary Shelley). This work offers for the first time a handy collection of Godwin's key writings in a clear and concise form, together with an assessment of his influence, a biographical sketch, and an analysis of his contribution to anarchist theory and practice. Godwin's work will be of interest to all those who believe that rationality, truth, happiness, individuality, equality, and freedom are central concerns of human enquiry and endeavor, Print version record, Front Cover; Praise; Title Page; Copyright; Dedication; Contents; Acknowledgements; Editor's Note; Foreword by John P. Clark; Introduction; I. Influence; II. The Making of an Anarchist; III. Analysis; Selection; I. Summary of Principles; II. Human Nature; 1. Necessity and Free Will; 2. The Characters of Men Originate in their External Circumstances; 3. The Voluntary Actions of Men Originate in their Opinions; 4. Equality; 5. Individuality and Society; 6. Perfectibility; III. Ethics; 1. Morality; 2. Moral Rules; 3. Justice; 4. Private and Domestic Affections; 5. Benevolence; 6. Duty; 7. Rights, 8. Coercion9. Promises; 10. Marriage; 11. Religion; IV. Politics; 1. Political Enquiry; 2. Government; 3. Social Contract; 4. Constitutions; 5. Legislation; 6. Law; 7. Punishment; 8. Obedience and Authority; 9. Freedom of Thought and Expression; 10. Patriotism; 11. Monarchy; 12. Aristocracy; 13. Democracy; 14. Republicanism; 15. Representation; 16. Ballot; 17. Assemblies; 18. Political Associations and Parties; 19. Revolutions; 20. Reform; V. Economics; 1. Importance of Property; 2. Effects of Unequal…