The Masks of Proteus
Canadian Reflections on the State
Description
In this collection of twelve essays Philip Resnick provides a comparative perspective on the modern state, arguing that the power of the state, like the mythological god Proteus, takes many different forms and cannot be revealed by any single discipline. He delves into political theory, political economy, and political sociology, as well as examining a number of isms important to any treatment of the modern state.
Reviews
"An invigorating series of challenges to conventional thinking (on all sides of the political spectrum). With this book, Resnick confirms his Socratic role as intellectual gadfly to the sacred cattle of Canadian politics." Reg Whitaker, Canadian Journal of Political Science "Very readable and thought-provoking ... Resnick has intelligently synthesized and distilled from a clear and consistent critical radical liberal (popular participatory) perspective insights on the ever-changing character of the state derived from a wide variety of sources ranging from political theory and political sociology to social democratic theory and praxis in Canada." Martin Lubin, American Political Science Review "Despite the breadth and maturity of Resnick's scholarly knowledge of the subject, he intends not to develop a grandiose theory of the state, but to raise certain subjects for discussion in order to advance the reader's understanding of and reflections on the state. His objective is admirably realized. In examining a specific facet of the state, each essay presents a comprehensive synthesis and an incisive evaluation of theories from across the ideological spectrum; and each introduces fresh theoretical insights. As a result, each essay is likely to stir considerable debate among observers and theorists of the state - debate from which a wide variety of disciplines are likely to profit." A.F. Johnson, Choice