The Founders of the American Republic set up a remarkable experiment in self-government. Today, debates rage as to the philosophical legacy of this ongoing experiment. In this fascinating study, Timothy Roth offers a critical analysis of modern liberalism and the economic theory to which it is conjoined - social welfare theory. The author argues that social welfare theory cannot be reconciled with the American Founders' procedurally based, consequence-detached republican self-government project. The book goes on to explore and expound the Founders' desire to promote respect for the moral law, their appreciation of the reciprocal relationship between morality and law, and their commitment to the promotion of justice in the sense of impartial institutions; ideas which find expression in contractarian, constitutional political economy.

Scholars and students in economics, political science, law and philosophy will find this marvelous treatise an engaging and thought-provoking read.