JAMES HARRINGTON Meaning and
Definition
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James Harrington (1611-1677) was an English political philosopher and republican thinker of the seventeenth century. He is significant for his contributions to the theory of political science and his works that explore the nature of power, government, and the ideal state.
Harrington's most famous work, "The Commonwealth of Oceana" (1656), presents a compelling vision of a democratic republic governed by an agrarian nobility. In this utopian work, he proposes a system based on the ideal of equality, where power rests in the hands of a balanced and virtuous elite. Harrington argues that political stability and freedom are achieved when property ownership and political representation are broadly distributed among the citizens.
Harrington's ideas heavily influenced the thinkers of the Enlightenment and laid the foundation for republican theories of government. He advocated for the rotation of political offices, providing opportunities for various segments of society to participate in governance, thus preventing the consolidation of power.
Apart from "The Commonwealth of Oceana," James Harrington wrote several other influential works, including "The Art of Lawgiving" (1659) and "A System of Politics" (posthumously published in 1700), which further developed his ideas on political balance and the role of law in shaping society.
Harrington's lasting impact can be seen in his practical contributions to republican political thought, particularly in terms of decentralization of power and the importance of civic participation in decision-making. His ideas remain relevant today, serving as an inspiration for those seeking to create more inclusive and democratic forms of government.
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Etymology of JAMES HARRINGTON
The word "James Harrington" is not derived from any etymology. It is a personal name composed of the given name "James" and the surname "Harrington". The given name "James" originates from the Hebrew name "Yaʿaqov" which means "supplanter" or "heel grabber". The surname "Harrington" is of English origin and refers to someone from the town of Harrington in either Lincolnshire or Cumbria in England.
