This Oxford Reader contains 140 essential readings covering the most important debates in the Western political tradition and presents samples of the major political ideologies. Issues discussed include: the role of human nature in determining social arrangements; the political significance of gender differences; the justification for the powers of the state; democracy and the rights of minorities; the tension between liberty and equality; the way in which resources ought to be distributed; and international relations. Authors range from Plato and Aristotle to Martin Luther King, Michel Foucault and Isaiah Berlin.Contents:Preface Introduction 1. Human Nature 2. The Justification of the State 3.: Democracy and Its Difficulties 4. Liberty and Rights5. Economic Justice 6. Justice Between Groups 7. Alternatives to Liberalism8. Progess and Civilization Appendix: Fundamental Political Documents