Overview

In this groundbreaking book, Steven Forde argues that John Locke's devotion to modern science deeply shaped his moral and political philosophy. Beginning with an account of the classical approach to natural and moral philosophy, and of the medieval scholasticism that took these forward into early modernity, Forde explores why the modern scientific project of Francis Bacon, Pierre Gassendi, Robert Boyle and others required the rejection of the classical approach. Locke fully subscribed to this rejection, and took it upon himself to provide a foundation for a compatible morality and politics. Forde shows that Locke's theory of moral 'mixed modes' owes much to Pufendorf, and is tailored to accommodate science. The theory requires a divine legislator, which in turn makes natural law the foundation of morality, rather than individual natural right. Forde shows the ways that Locke's approach modified his individualism, and colored his philosophy of property, politics and education.

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9781107041141

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Reviews

Advance praise: 'Steven Forde's Locke, Science, and Politics makes a sparkling contribution to the ever-expanding universe of Locke studies. Forde draws upon his deep learning in political philosophy to produce a finely crafted argument that the core of Locke's moral and political philosophy is not the grasping and callous individualism that critics persistently imagine, but instead a complex teaching of natural law in which a concern for individual natural rights complements a morality of sociability and service. Written with uncommon elegance and lucidity, the book deserves a wide readership.' Peter C. Myers, University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire Advance praise: 'In this excellent new study of Locke, Forde gives a very concise, very clear, and very informative account of early philosophic positions, especially as they relate to issues that will prove important to Locke's moral and political philosophy.' Michael Zuckert, University of Notre Dame

Author Information

Steven Forde is Professor of Political Science at the University of North Texas.

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