In this lively and engaging book, Norberto Bobbio, the distinguished contemporary Italian philosopher, and the political theorist Maurizio Viroli, explore a range of themes relating to the idea of the Republic and some of the major political and ethical issues of the day. A lively discussion of politics and political theory by one of the world's most distinguished political theorists and philosophers. Provides an excellent introduction to the work of Bobbio for the newcomer. Explains the idea of the Republic and some of the major political and ethical themes of the day. Demonstrates philosophy in action, with a breadth of reference including Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Kant, Rousseau, Pettit and Skinner.