Prelude to an analysis of A Disquisition on Government / George A. Forsyth

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1974

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This thesis criticizes the traditional understanding of the doctrine of the concurrent majority. That tradition holds the doctrine is designed to protect the rights of the minority. To refute this interpretation, the author examines the introductory and middle sections of A Disquisition on Government, and the "Speech on the Slavery Question" (4 March 1850). It is argued the significant variable in Calhoun's political theory is not rights but, society. Calhoun is found to be engaged in the construction of a true science of politics, founded on strict empirical method.

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