| Popis: |
This chapter explores the relation between freedom and inequality in Montesquieu’s work through rhetorical analysis. It begins with a discussion of Montesquieu’s broader conception of the relation between language and regime, demonstrating how his typology of governments is complemented with a typology of rhetorical styles. It then proceeds to discuss Montesquieu’s rather nuanced discussion of equality as related to political regimes and his theory of freedom especially as developed in Book XI, chapter 6 and Book XIX, chapter 27 of The Spirit of the Laws. The chapter suggests that for Montesquieu political liberty in moderate regimes appears to rely on social inequalities. This does not make his theory irrelevant for contemporary purposes but rather offers some tools for unmasking realities underlying contemporary liberal democratic rhetoric. |
