Charles Taylor's wide-ranging works include the interpretations of the German philosopher Hegel, "Sources of the Self", the influential historical and philosophical investigation of the development of the modern identity and the discussion "Multiculturalism and 'The Politics of Recognition'", a key point of departure for ongoing debates regarding pluralism and cultural difference within modern societies. This study outlines Taylor's distinctive method of philosophical interpretation, examines its application through the concepts of modernity, freedom and community, and offers an overall assessment of his contribution to political theory and the theory and practice of democracy. Taylor's major works are sympathetically expounded and assessed in their own terms, and also situated in the context of debates - involving Taylor's own engagement with thinkers including Isaiah Berlin, John Rawls and Michel Foucault - that continue to shape the development of political philosophy.