First Principles: Self-governance in an Open Society Second edition

From John Locke to William F. Buckley, Jr., "First Principles" reviews the foundational authors who contributed to the development of American government and are still shaping it today. The job of governing appears easy for those who don't do it. The difficult part is in understanding how actual, not idealized or simplistic governance is best accomplished. The conclusion is that human nature must be given its due. "First Principles" offers, by means of 44 synopses of the great books of western political and economic thought, an abridged, easy-to-follow classical education for the modern, overwhelmed voter, candidate, office holder or government official.