This collection of 12 scholarly essays is especially timely, in light of the relentless attacks on liberalism ("the 'l' word") during the 1988 presidential campaign. The ideas presented in this volume build upon John Rawls's A Theory of Justice ( LJ 4/1/72) and other influential attempts to broaden and redefine conventional liberalism. Rosenblum's lengthy introduction provides a helpful overview of recent criticisms of liberalism and attempts to "create some order out of the proliferating types of liberalism." Some of the essay authors are familiar academic names: Judith Shklar, Benjamin Barber, Steven Lukes, George Kateb; all 12 bring analytical skill and originality to their pieces. A lengthy section of reference notes is appended. Recommended for university library collections to support graduate-level study in government or philosophy.

-Thomas A. Karel, Franklin & Marshall Coll. Lib., Lancaster, Pa.

Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.