This book provides an introductory survey of Montesquieu's economic ideas and a fresh examination of the longstanding controversy over the meaning and purpose of Montesquieu's The Spirit of the Laws. No one doubts that Montesquieu helped to formulate the core liberal ideals at the heart of the development of liberal republican traditions on both the European and American continents. Yet, questions remain about Montesquieu's political intentions. In particular, the view of Montesquieu as a conscious proponent of commercial modernity has come under increasing scrutiny. While not ignoring recent scholarly challenges, Bibby moves the debate forward by uncovering the many hidden connections between commerce, liberty, and religion in The Spirit of the Laws. A failure to make these connections, Bibby argues, has led to significant interpretative errors. This book attempts to eliminate one source of the confusion which continues to cloud Montesquieu's political philosophy inobscurity.

Autorentext
Andrew Scott Bibby is Interim Director of the Center for Constitutional Studies, Utah Valley University, USA. Previously, he was Visiting Assistant Professor of American Studies at Christopher Newport University, USA and Research Associate at the James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions, Princeton University, USA. Bibby's current research focuses on Montesquieu's influence on the American Founding and the early republic. He teaches courses on American political thought and the intellectual foundations of the US Constitution.

Zusammenfassung

This book contributes to the recovery of political philosophy by analyzing Montesquieu's economic thought. Engaging, eclectic, and inventive, this fresh examination clarifies the longstanding controversy over the purpose and meaning of Montesquieu's The Spirit of the Laws.

Inhalt

1. Montesquieu économiste
2. Commerce in The Spirit of Laws
3. Commerce, Honor, and Monarchy
4. The Maligned Merchant and the New History of Commerce
5. Commerce and the Rhetoric of Toleration
6. The Problem of Property in the The Spirit of the Laws