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The Commonwealth of Oceana and System of Politics: A Visionary Blueprint for a Democratic Society

Bryce Foster

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Published in Harrington: The Commonwealth Of Oceana And A System Of Politics (Cambridge Texts In The History Of Political Thought)

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In the annals of political philosophy, James Harrington's masterpiece, "The Commonwealth of Oceana," stands as a towering achievement. Published in 1656, during the turbulent era of the English Civil War, this seminal work offers a profound and enduring vision of a society founded upon the principles of liberty, equality, and the rule of law.

Harrington's Oceana is more than a mere treatise on government; it is a comprehensive blueprint for a democratic society that addresses the fundamental questions of political power, economic justice, and the preservation of individual rights.

Harrington: 'The Commonwealth of Oceana' and 'A System of Politics' (Cambridge Texts in the History of Political Thought)

by James Harrington

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	33060 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	332 pages

The Theory of Oceana

At the heart of Oceana lies Harrington's belief that the stability and prosperity of a society depend upon the equitable distribution of property. He argued that a society where a small elite controls the wealth and power is inherently unstable and prone to tyranny.

To prevent this, Harrington proposed a system of government in which land ownership is widely dispersed among the citizens. He believed that this would create a balance of power and prevent any one person or group from amassing excessive wealth and influence.

Harrington also recognized the importance of education and civic virtue in a democratic society. He advocated for a comprehensive system of education that would foster critical thinking, political awareness, and a sense of shared responsibility.

The System of Politics

The "System of Politics" outlined in Oceana is a complex and innovative model for a democratic republic. Harrington proposed a bicameral legislature, with a lower house elected by the people and an upper house composed of landowners. This system was designed to ensure both popular representation and the stability provided by a landed elite.

Harrington also established a system of checks and balances to prevent any branch of government from becoming too powerful. He believed that the executive, legislative, and judicial branches should have overlapping responsibilities and the ability to restrain one another.

Economic Justice and Social Harmony

Harrington was deeply concerned with the issue of economic justice. He believed that a society where the majority of people are impoverished and exploited is inherently unjust and unsustainable.

In Oceana, Harrington proposed a system of land reform that would ensure that every citizen had a stake in the economy. He also advocated for fair wages, reasonable working conditions, and a social safety net for the poor and vulnerable.

Harrington recognized that a stable and prosperous society requires more than just political institutions; it also requires a shared sense of community and common purpose.

Legacy and Influence

The Commonwealth of Oceana was a profound and influential work that shaped the course of political thought and practice. Its ideas about the importance of property distribution, civic virtue, and the separation of powers were widely adopted by subsequent thinkers.

Harrington's work had a direct impact on the development of democratic institutions in England, the United States, and other nations. His ideas continue to resonate with contemporary political philosophers and activists who seek to create more just and equitable societies.

James Harrington's "The Commonwealth of Oceana" is a timeless work that offers a profound and enduring vision of a democratic society. Its insights into the nature of power, the importance of economic justice, and the role of civic virtue remain as relevant today as they were in the 17th century.

As we face the challenges of the 21st century, Harrington's work serves as a reminder that the pursuit of a just and equitable society is an ongoing struggle that requires the active engagement and participation of all citizens.

Harrington: 'The Commonwealth of Oceana' and 'A System of Politics' (Cambridge Texts in the History of Political Thought)

by James Harrington

4.6 out of 5