Liberal realism: a realist theory of liberal politics

Political realism has recently moved to the centre of debates in contemporary political theory.

In this monograph, Matt Sleat presents the a comprehensive overview of the resurgence of interest in realist political theory and develops a unique and original defence of liberal politics in realist terms.

Through explorations of the work of a diverse range of thinkers, including Bernard Williams, John Rawls, Raymond Geuss, Judith Shklar, John Gray, Carl Schmitt and Max Weber, the author advances a theory of liberal realism that is consistent with the realist emphasis on disagreement and conflict yet still recognisably liberal in its concern with respecting individuals' freedom and constraining political power.