William Godwin (1756-1836) was one of the first exponents of utilitarianism
and the first modern proponent of anarchism. He was not only a radical
philosopher but a pioneer in libertarian education, a founder of communist
economics, and an acute and powerful novelist whose literary family
included his partner, pioneering feminist writer Mary Wollstonecraft, and
his daughter Mary Godwin (later Mary Shelley). This work offers for the
first time a handy collection of Godwin”s key writings in a clear and
concise form, together with an assessment of his influence, a biographical
sketch, and an analysis of his contribution to anarchist theory and
practice. Godwin”s work will be of interest to all those who believe that
rationality, truth, happiness, individuality, equality, and freedom are
central concerns of human enquiry and endeavor.