A Political Philosophy in Public Life: Civic Republicanism in Zapatero’s Spain

(Princeton University Press) In 2004, Jos é Luis Rodr í guez Zapatero was elected president of Spain, pledging to govern the country using the principles established in Pettit’s Republicanism. Zapatero followed through on his promise, inviting Pettit to monitor changes and comment on the idea’s success. This book details this major event, exploring the history of this decision, explaining civic republicanism, and presenting Pettit’s report on Spain’s progress. Also included are an interview with Zapatero and a discussion of what is needed for political philosophy to play a role in public life. Pettit is the Laurence S. Rockefeller University Professor of Politics and Human Values at Princeton University.