Though it is not uncommon for historians to have something to say concerning philosophical strands in Jefferson’s thought, that something is usually insubstantial-often misleadingly so-or inchoate. Overall, precious little has been said. The significance of the man and the richness of his thought demands that this defect be remedied.

Thomas Jefferson and Philosophy is a collection of nine new essays on philosophical elements in Jefferson’s writings. The first of its kind, this collection should lead to further philosophical analysis of Jefferson’s thinking-especially by philosophers, who tend to appreciate Jefferson only as the author of the Declaration of Independence-and to greater appreciation for the man who gave to statesmanship a large number of the prime of his years out of a moral sense of duty to others. In that regard, Jefferson was always first a philosopher.

This book will be a valuable read for students and scholars of history, political theory, and philosophy, as well as anyone interested in the thought of Thomas Jefferson.