Description:
In Utilitarianism in the Early American Republic James E. Crimmins provides a fresh perspective on the history of antebellum American political thought.
Review Quotes:
"No political and legal theorist since Bentham himself has had a better grasp of the rich meaning and powerful influence of Benthamite utilitarianism. This is a work for scholars and intellectuals in general to treasure, one that will challenge many deep-seated prejudices against the legacy of utilitarianism and role it played in the early history of the U.S."
Bart Schultz, Senior Lecturer in Philosophy, The University of Chicago
"[In sum], this historically and philosophically informed study illuminates well a small, neglected, yet significant aspect of early American history."
William H. Shaw, Canadian Journal of Political Science
"[Overall] Crimmins's work makes a valuable contribution to the history of utilitarian moral and political thought, and it provides excellent insight into its American origins and development as well as its successes and failings there."
Chris Riley, Utilitas