This is an important book, not only because it breaks new ground in the articulation and exploration of one of the most profound yet undeservedly neglected philosophers of the 20th century, but also because in revealing the genius of its subject (John Macmurray) Frank Kirkpatrick helps us to engage with some of the most important social and political challenges of our time. -- Michael Fielding, University of Sussex
A timely retrieval of a seminal political and religious thinker. Kirkpatrick performs an essential service in making the work of John Macmurray available to 21st century debates about freedom, justice, community and society. -- Christopher Lind, Senior Fellow, Massey College; Executive director, Sorrento Center
Kirkpatrick presents a clear introduction to the whole of Macmurray's work. Recommended. * CHOICE *
Frank Kirkpatrick has written a deceptively short and simple work. It contains an excellent brief biography as well as a clear, concise and precise account of John Mcmurray's thought. * Political Studies Review *
Frank Kirkpatrick reminds us how much we need to hear the voice of John Macmurray for Macmurray touches on issues and frames his philosophical discourse in ways that make possible a dialogue between those concerned with the importance of the human freedomand individuality with those for whom equality and justice are of prime value. Macmurray's relational model of human nature challenges not only pessimistic interpretations of human nature, but assumptions that govern human behavior. Living in a societythat is dominated by forms of market fundamentalism Macmurray, in effect, brings into question competitive, individualist, and reductionistic understandings of human possibilities that stand in marked contrast to seeing community as a way of affirming the mutuality of relations among persons and fostering a concern once again for the common good. In addition, Kirkpatrick's understanding of Macmurray provides a venue for a discussion of religion, and its importance in human life, that is not reducible totheological abstractions or divisive religious claims. -- Robert H. Craig, The College of St. Scholastica
Frank Kirkpatrick reminds us how much we need to hear the voice of John Macmurray for Macmurray touches on issues and frames his philosophical discourse in ways that make possible a dialogue between those concerned with the importance of the human freedom and individuality with those for whom equality and justice are of prime value. Macmurray's relational model of human nature challenges not only pessimistic interpretations of human nature, but assumptions that govern human behavior. Living in a society that is dominated by forms of market fundamentalism Macmurray, in effect, brings into question competitive, individualist, and reductionistic understandings of human possibilities that stand in marked contrast to seeing community as a way of affirming the mutuality of relations among persons and fostering a concern once again for the common good. In addition, Kirkpatrick's understanding of Macmurray provides a venue for a discussion of religion, and its importance in human life, that is not reducible to theological abstractions or divisive religious claims. -- Robert H. Craig, The College of St. Scholastica
