The Ancient Idea of Founding & the Contemporary Study of Political Change

Professor Edington distinguishes development of regimes (the natural end of an incremental process) from founding of regimes (by deliberate intention, the exercise of rational will by a person or persons). Classical writers appreciated the distinction and the importance of founding; contemporary writers (notably Almond) do not, Edington suggests. He seeks to revive an appreciation of the role of founders. A result of emphasis sought in the article is to reclaim the distinctly political elements, for founding leads one to ask about deliberate political goals, the kind of regime sought. From a study of ancient political philosophy comes a message, a brotherly challenge, to the modern student of political development.