The first of his famous BBC Reith lectures in which Russell examines Ancient Greek philosophy, the French Revolution and the modern welfare state with characteristic clarity and deep understanding. This is Russell at his intellectual best.

From Ancient Greek philosophy to the French Revolution to the modern welfare state, in Authority and the Individual Bertrand Russell tackles the perennial questions about the balance between authority and human freedom. With characteristic clarity and deep understanding, he explores the formation and purpose of society, education, moral evolution and social, economical and intellectual progress. First of the famous BBC Reith lectures, this wonderful collection delivers Russell at his intellectual best.