The Political Theory of Possessive Individualism

The Political Theory of Possessive Individualism examines liberal democratic theory through analysis of key political philosophers from Hobbes to Locke. Macpherson traces the development of what he terms "possessive individualism" - the conception of the individual as owner of their own person and capacities. The book focuses on seventeenth-century English political thought and the foundations of modern liberal-democratic theory. Through close readings of Hobbes, the Levellers, Harrington, and Locke, Macpherson investigates how these thinkers conceptualized human nature and political society. The analysis moves from the English Civil War period through the Restoration, mapping the evolution of ideas about individual rights, property, and political obligation. Macpherson demonstrates how these theories shaped subsequent liberal democratic thought and institutions. This work presents a critical interpretation of liberal democracy's philosophical origins and raises questions about the relationship between market society and democratic values. The concept of possessive individualism provides a framework for understanding tensions within liberal democratic systems.

Readers note Macpherson's detailed analysis of Hobbes, Locke, and other theorists, with a focus on how early liberalism connected to market society. Many appreciate his critique of liberal democracy's foundations and his examination of property rights. Positive comments highlight: - Clear connection between liberal theory and capitalism - Strong historical context for political thought - Original interpretation of classic texts Common criticisms: - Dense academic writing style - Some arguments feel stretched or forced - Marxist bias affects objectivity of analysis One reader states: "His reading of Locke is controversial but thought-provoking." Another notes: "Takes work to get through but rewards careful study." Ratings: Goodreads: 4.13/5 (89 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (12 ratings) Google Books: 4/5 (31 ratings) Most academic reviewers engage seriously with the arguments while disagreeing with specific interpretations.

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🔷 C.B. Macpherson coined the term "possessive individualism" to describe how classical liberal thinkers viewed individuals as owners of their own capacities, owing nothing to society for them. 🔷 The book, published in 1962, examines seven key political theorists from Hobbes to Locke, showing how their views were shaped by the emerging market society of 17th-century England. 🔷 Macpherson's work significantly influenced New Left thinking in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly in its critique of liberal democracy's relationship with capitalism. 🔷 Though a Canadian academic, Macpherson was part of the British tradition of socialist thought, and his book became required reading in political theory courses across North America and Europe. 🔷 The book argues that modern liberal-democratic theory cannot be understood without recognizing its origins in a society that viewed human relations primarily as market relations.