Social & Political Philosophy

Esteemed historian of the Soviet Union recommends five books on Communism, from novels and personal narratives to theoretical works.

The Hoover Institution scholar explores five books that he believes teach us something about how we are "failing to understand, appreciate and defend our liberty"

Lindsay Porter, author and cultural historian who has published widely on conspiracy theories, discusses five books on the different concepts of politically motivated killing and asks whether assassination can ever be justified

The chairman of the Equalities & Human Rights Commission says discrimination and social injustice won't be changed by what happens in courtrooms or parliament but by how we all behave

The lawyer who prosecuted Ariel Sharon discusses the brilliance of maverick political thinkers and says: "It takes at least a generation to establish democracy." Highlights work of philosopher Gilles Deleuze above all

Toleration is an ideal of conduct which involves putting up with something you find objectionable, says Professor Timothy Stanton. He chooses the best five books on toleration, from John Locke to more recent works.

Political scientist Gary Bass picks the five best books on human rights (this article was published on June 24th, 2009)