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375 BCE
"The Republic" by Plato
"The Republic" is considered by some to be one of the earliest works concerning political and ethical justice. Plato expresses why it's in everyone's best interest to be just, aiding in justice's integration into most of society, especially the Justice system of the American government. -
"Leviathan" by Thomas Hobbes
The "Leviathan" is a book that argues that government is necessary to ensure collective security and avoid war and anarchy, possibly leading to the integration of a higher governmental power in most, if not all, places on earth. The "Leviathan" builds on "The Republic" in that it establishes what is necessary to establish justice for those who don't seek virtue. -
"The Social Contract" by Jean-Jacques Rousseau
"The Social Contract" aims to determine how freedom may be possible in civil society. Freedom is one of the leading ideals around the world, and the most prevalent ideal in America. While the importance of justice has been established, "The Social Contract" tries to establish a society in which government controls justice, while also allowing for individual freedoms. -
"The Wealth of Nations" by Adam Smith
"The Wealth of Nations" was a foundational study in the history of economics. It argued that a nation's wealth consists of the goods and services that it creates, contributing to today's free market and concept of capitalism. "The Wealth of Nations" argues that individual economic freedom would greatly benefit the government/society they take part in. -
"The Communist Manifesto" by Karl Marx & Friedrich Engels
"The Communist Manifesto" expresses the views of the Communist Party. How class differences and struggles are the motivating force behind historical developments. -
"On Liberty" by John Stuart Mill
The principles expressed in "On Liberty" are very similar to that of America's Constitution, the 1st Amendment, and other Amendments. It highlights the powers of individual citizens, and explains in what situations (such has harming others), the government has the right to step in. "On Liberty" establishes a fine line between governmental control on justice, and an individual citizen's rights. -
"The Road to Serfdom" by Friedrich Hayek
"The Road to Serfdom" also supports individual freedom, but in the economy. It warns of the dangers and the tyranny that comes with a government-run economy, leading to individual serfdom. This text warns of what would happen if the government controlled the economy, and is yet another text that supports an individual's economic freedoms. -
"The Swerve: How the World Became Modern" by Stephen Greenblatt
"The Swerve" highlights how ancient manuscripts can greatly effect the world today. The example used here is that of a manuscript by Poggio Bracciolini and the Renaissance. -
"Hamlet in Purgatory" by Stephen Greenblatt
"Hamlet in Purgatory" argues that Shakespeare transformed human desires, changing many things for humans today, including emotional, cultural, and material desires.