Political Philosophy and the Republican Future

Rezensionen / Stimmen

"The fragmentation of knowledge among competing schools in our time is not unlike the competing schools of philosophy confronting Cicero. This fragmentation-in his time and ours-manifests itself in the loss of public space. Without a public space-rooted in the phenomena of a shared public life-there can be no genuine knowledge and no free and active political life. In penetrating analysis, Gregory Bruce Smith engages Cicero as a master of the phenomenological method presented here and as a republican statesman opening opportunities for citizens-not subjects-to shape their own future." -Christopher A. Colmo, Dominican University

"Gregory Bruce Smith's book is significant as scholarship because there is no other comprehensive presentation that is more thorough or intelligent. Smith is especially effective in his presentation of Cicero as a kind of phenomenologist who does not forget the source of philosophy in everyday discourse, or 'public space.' He usefully argues that for Cicero the combination of rhetoric, public speaking, statesmanship, and philosophy is more worthwhile and significant than merely contemplative philosophy on its own." -Mark Blitz, Claremont McKenna College

"Gregory Smith presents a thoughtful and expansive study of Cicero the republican. It is also an argument for Cicero's relevance today that becomes a rescue operation for him from modern neglect and postmodern levity. The book explores Cicero and his surroundings through the lens of political philosophy to illuminate our present situation." -Harvey Mansfield, Harvard University; senior fellow, Hoover Institution

"Throughout his presentation, Smith makes clear that Cicero always begins with what is given, and seeks to weave strands together, to open the space necessary for a republican future. This book is highly recommended for scholars interested in phenomenology, as well as for undergraduates looking for an introduction to Cicero's political philosophy." -Choice

"Smith's burning care for future generations' possession of republican liberty makes this an important piece of political writing that reflects on the life well lived and exhorts us toward it." -The Review of Politics