Just Freedom: A Moral Compass for a Complex World

In this slim volume, Princeton University political philosopher Pettit (Republicanism) reiterates his long-held idea that universal freedom revolves around non-domination. Pettit begins the book with tests of freedom: the eyeball test, the tough luck test, and the straight talk test. Unfortunately, he doesn't follow through on these themes or build his book around them. Instead, he abstractly ponders the relationship between the individual and private and public power. This earnest book reminds us that freedom is a precious thing and emanates from republican ideals. Stating that these ideals of freedom, justice, and democracy have achieved more than other political systems, Pettit nonetheless tries to spin something more cosmopolitan. (Pettit is Australian-born and teaches part-time at Australian National University.) His "ideal of global sovereignty" is far-fetched and implausible. Pettit's political instincts and efforts to extend republicanism are commendable, even noble, but the compass he uses, while erudite, is more appropriate to the ivory tower. Pettit's book contains far too many "oughts," never confronting the many confident enemies to freedom of thought and action in today's complex, often amoral world. (Mar.)