The main concern of this book is to analyse the tradition which believes that "order" is the cardinal principle which takes precedence over "justice" through the study of its progenitors.

A school of thought traceable to the political writings of Bodin and Hobbes believes that "order" is the cardinal principle which takes precedence over "justice" - which is reduced to conformity. The main concern of this book is to analyse this tradition through study of its progenitors.

'The book's mix of approaches is refreshing ... its erudition impressive.' - The Journal of Politics