The most recent addition to the Fundamentals of Philosophy Series, Political Philosophy is a concise yet thorough and highly engaging introduction to the essential problems and arguments at the heart of the discipline. Organized topically and presented in a straightforward manner by an eminent political philosopher, A. John Simmons, it investigates the nature of political society and political philosophy, purported justifications of the modern state, the problems of state legitimacy and political obligation, the nature of social justice, the case for democratic government, and issues in international political philosophy. Each chapter focuses on a central problem, considers how it has been and could be addressed, and outlines the various philosophical positions surrounding it. The book offers an in-depth survey of the arguments advanced by major historical figures while also reflecting the author's views and contributions. Incorporating both historical and contemporary work, it demonstrates how past and present perspectives fit together and constitute a continuous concern with the same problems. Accessible to novices yet also useful for advanced students, Political Philosophy presents a unified and thought-provoking portrait of the issues that have been puzzling political philosophers for years. Book jacket.