Free delivery on all orders above $30
Get 10% off all year round! Join Thryft Club
Get 10% off all year round and $10 off your next order! Join Thryft Club

Your cart

Your cart is empty

Check out these collections!

Bestselling Fiction
Bestselling Nonfiction
Bestselling Books for Children
Vintage and Rare Books
Vinyl Records
Women's Clothing
Men's Clothing

Stay in touch and win free books

Keep up with our latest sales and events, and receive
recommendations direct to your inbox. We'll only send the good stuff, promise!

By completing this form, you are signing up to receive our emails and can unsubscribe at any time

Philosophy Books

Dive into the realm of thought with our Philosophy collection. Here, you'll unearth treasures from the great minds such as Aristotle, Confucius, and Derrida. Whether you're a seasoned philosopher or a curious learner, you'll find works that challenge and inspire.
Popular Filters Classics Theory

37 Results

Switch between grid and list views for a better book browsing experience!
Government
Clear all

37 Results

No results

Government
Clear all
Declaration Universelle Des Droits De L'Homme Dans 6 Langues ONU
Various | Folio

Declaration Universelle Des Droits De L'Homme Dans 6 Langues ONU

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$3.90

If you're intrigued by global perspectives and value human rights, this collection might just enrich your worldview. Through the translation of pivotal human rights concepts into six different languages, you'll gain insight into the universal principles that bind us together, while appreciating the nuance and beauty of each language's interpretation. It's a unique journey through cultural and linguistic landscapes, all focused on a shared vision for humanity.
Reflections of a Siamese Twin: Canada at the End of the Twentieth Century
John Ralston Saul | Penguin Canada

Reflections of a Siamese Twin: Canada at the End of the Twentieth Century

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$11.90

This is a thoughtful, provocative read for anyone curious about what really holds Canada together. Saul challenges the usual English-French, east-west, Native-settler binaries and makes the country feel more complex, more uneasy, and more interesting. If you like big-picture political writing that questions national myths and gives you fresh language for debates you thought you knew, this one can feel surprisingly clarifying.
Critical Theories of the State: Marxist, Neo-Marxist, Post-Marxist
Clyde W. Barrow | University Of Wisconsin Press

Critical Theories of the State: Marxist, Neo-Marxist, Post-Marxist

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$10.90

82% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the complexities of political power and how it intertwines with economic systems, "Critical Theories of the State" could be a compelling read for you. Clyde W. Barrow does an impressive job of breaking down dense Marxist and post-Marxist theories, making them more digestible. This book stands out as an educational tool, likely sparking deep thought and providing a foundation for anyone interested in political science, sociology, or even history. It's a dense read, but for the intellectually curious, it can be quite a transformative text.
Inventing Freedom: How the English-Speaking Peoples Made the Modern World
Daniel Hannan | Broadside Books

Inventing Freedom: How the English-Speaking Peoples Made the Modern World

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$13.90

50% off est. retail
This will likely appeal if you enjoy big-idea history with a strong political argument and don’t mind a clearly opinionated voice. Hannan makes the story of freedom feel contingent rather than inevitable, which gives the book urgency and bite. Readers who like provocative takes on democracy, law, and national identity may find it energising, even when they disagree.
The Fourth Revolution: The Global Race to Reinvent the State
Adrian Wooldridge, John Micklethwait  | Penguin Books

The Fourth Revolution: The Global Race to Reinvent the State

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$11.90

58% off est. retail
If you like big-picture nonfiction that connects history, politics, and global competition, this feels urgent rather than abstract. It argues that government itself is being reinvented, and that the real contest of this century is not just economic but political. Readers who enjoy provocative, debate-starting books will appreciate how it makes state reform feel immediate and high-stakes.
The Arrow Impossibility Theorem
Kenneth J. Arrow, Eric Maskin  | Columbia University Press

The Arrow Impossibility Theorem

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$11.90

87% off est. retail
This is a rewarding read if you like ideas that genuinely change how you see the world. It takes Arrow’s famous theorem and makes its surprising consequences feel alive, showing why fair voting is far harder than it first seems. Readers who enjoy economics, politics, or philosophy often find it both intellectually humbling and strangely thrilling, especially because it pairs rigorous reasoning with big real-world questions.
Ideology and International Relations in the Modern World
Alan Cassels | Routledge

Ideology and International Relations in the Modern World

$10.90 $9.64 12% off

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$10.90 $9.64 12% off

If you enjoy delving into the intellectual forces that have sculpted our modern world, Alan Cassels' book is quite the gem. It throws light on how various ideologies, beyond just totalitarian ones, have influenced international relations. It's a fresh lens through history that could challenge your perspective on global politics.
The Zero Marginal Cost Society: The Internet of Things, the Collaborative Commons, and the Eclipse of Capitalism
Jeremy Rifkin | St. Martin's Press

The Zero Marginal Cost Society: The Internet of Things, the Collaborative Commons, and the Eclipse of Capitalism

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$13.90

72% off est. retail
If you like books that make you rethink how the world works, this is a fascinating one. Rifkin takes economics, technology, and sustainability and ties them into a bold vision of a future where access matters more than ownership. It feels especially rewarding for readers curious about the sharing economy, digital networks, and where capitalism might be heading next.
George Yeo on Bonsai, Banyan, and the Tao
Huay Leng Lee, Asad-ul Iqbal Latif  | World Scientific Publishing Company

George Yeo on Bonsai, Banyan, and the Tao

$17.90

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$17.90

69% off est. retail
If you're into politics and philosophy with a dash of personal growth, "George Yeo on Bonsai, Banyan and the Tao" could be a valuable addition to your shelf. Through his compiled speeches and writings, you get to explore the intricate thoughts of a man who's not easily defined by traditional labels. You'll find yourself examining the delicate balances in governance, identity, and self-understanding, guided by the rich experiences of Yeo's diverse career.
A New Idea of India: Individual Rights in a Civilisational
Rajeev Mantri, Harsh Gupta 'Madhusudan', Sanjeev Sanyal  | Westland

A New Idea of India: Individual Rights in a Civilisational

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

For those interested in contemporary Indian discourse, this book presents a nuanced conversation about individual rights entwined with India's civilizational ethos. It's a thought-provoking read if you're looking to delve into the complexities of India's evolving identity and the underlying tensions between tradition and modernity.
The New Paradigm for Financial Markets: The Credit Crisis of 2008 and What It Means
George Soros | Publicaffairs

The New Paradigm for Financial Markets: The Credit Crisis of 2008 and What It Means

$4.90

Goodreads rating: 3.42

$4.90

84% off est. retail
If you're looking to make sense of the 2008 financial crisis, George Soros’s perspective is invaluable. His unparalleled experience in the financial markets offers not just a recount of events, but a deep understanding of the boom and bust cycles that characterize our economic systems. This book will arm you with practical insights and a bit of philosophy to navigate future financial landscapes or simply to understand the underpinnings of such economic upheavals.
The Happiness Industry: How the Government and Big Business Sold Us Well-Being
Chiara Melloni, William Davies  | Verso

The Happiness Industry: How the Government and Big Business Sold Us Well-Being

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$11.90

If you're intrigued by the intersection of psychology, economy, and society, "The Happiness Industry" might just be your next gripping read. William Davies offers a sharp critique on how our collective pursuit of well-being has been co-opted by corporations and governments. It's a thought-provoking journey that will challenge your perceptions of happiness and its place in the modern world.
System Error: Where Big Tech Went Wrong and How We Can Reboot—Three Stanford Professors on Technology Ethics, Privacy, and Democracy
Rob Reich, Mehran Sahami, Jeremy M Weinstein  | Harper Paperbacks

System Error: Where Big Tech Went Wrong and How We Can Reboot—Three Stanford Professors on Technology Ethics, Privacy, and Democracy

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$9.90

If the digital landscape ever feels overwhelming and you're concerned about how technology shapes our society, "System Error" might be the eye-opener you're looking for. Written by insiders with a wealth of experience, the book doesn't just diagnose the problems with Big Tech—it actually offers pathways to reclaim control. Dive into this if you're ready for a thoughtful analysis that doesn't shy away from proposing how we might right the ship.
The Little Black Book of Lawyer's Wisdom
Tony Lyons | Skyhorse

The Little Black Book of Lawyer's Wisdom

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 2.89

$15.90

If you're dabbling in or devoted to law or politics, "The Little Black Book of Lawyer's Wisdom" might prove to be an invaluable companion. This collection teems with insight from historic legal minds, offering you quick but potent reflections to inspire or guide. It's a book you’re likely to reach for whether you need an authoritative touchstone in a discussion or just a moment's intellectual connection with the greats.
The Left Alternative
Roberto Mangabeira Unger | Verso

The Left Alternative

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$9.90

59% off est. retail
If the current state of politics feels stagnant, "The Left Alternative" could reinvigorate your hope for change. Roberto Mangabeira Unger tackles hefty topics with a pragmatic approach, essentially providing a toolkit for progressives seeking tangible reforms. It's intellectually rigorous yet accessible, aiming to inspire practical action over despair.
The 48 Laws of Power
Just Arrived
Robert Greene | Penguin Books

The 48 Laws of Power

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$11.90

52% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the inner workings of power dynamics and enjoy analyzing strategic thought across history, "The 48 Laws of Power" will likely captivate you. The blend of historical anecdotes and strategic advice gives insight into the ruthless side of human nature and power struggles, making it a compelling read for aspiring tacticians and those intrigued by realpolitik.
People, Power, and Profits: Progressive Capitalism for an Age of Discontent
Joseph E. Stiglitz | W. W. Norton Company

People, Power, and Profits: Progressive Capitalism for an Age of Discontent

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$11.90

If you're feeling lost in today's tumultuous economic landscape, Stiglitz's 'People, Power, and Profits' is like a compass to guide you through. His insightful analysis doesn't just diagnose the ailments of modern capitalism; it prescribes a hopeful course towards a more fair and inclusive economy. This book might be the intellectual stimulus you need to understand and perhaps even join the movements shaping the future of our economy.
Imperial Ambitions: Conversations With Noam Chomsky On The Post-9/11 World
Noam Chomsky, David Barsamian  | Hamish Hamilton

Imperial Ambitions: Conversations With Noam Chomsky On The Post-9/11 World

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

67% off est. retail
If you're interested in understanding complex global issues and the post-9/11 geopolitical landscape through the sharp lens of Noam Chomsky, "Imperial Ambitions" is a compelling read. These interviews delve into topics with an immediacy and critical perspective that could change or reinforce your views on U.S. foreign policy and global threats. The book's conversational format makes Chomsky's formidable intellect accessible, offering a thought-provoking analysis that's as educational as it is engaging.
Utopia or Bust: A Guide to the Present Crisis
Benjamin Kunkel | Verso Books

Utopia or Bust: A Guide to the Present Crisis

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.39

$11.90

If you're feeling lost in the sea of political and economic theories, "Utopia or Bust" could be your lighthouse. Benjamin Kunkel does a commendable job at demystifying complex theories and presenting them with clarity and a bit of humor. It's accessible, engaging, and might just change the way you see the world's economic puzzles. This book could be your stepping stone into deeper political discourse or simply a fresh perspective to challenge your views.
Reasonable Democracy: Jürgen Habermas and the Politics of Discourse
Simone Chambers | Cornell University Press

Reasonable Democracy: Jürgen Habermas and the Politics of Discourse

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$13.90

This is a thoughtful pick if you like political philosophy that feels grounded in real democratic life rather than abstract jargon. Chambers makes Habermas unusually readable, building everything around the deceptively simple question of why talking can be better than fighting. It’s the kind of book that appeals to readers who care about ethics, public debate, and how societies actually hold together through conversation.
Winning Arguments: What Works and Doesn't Work in Politics, the Bedroom, the Courtroom, and the Classroom
Stanley Fish | Harper

Winning Arguments: What Works and Doesn't Work in Politics, the Bedroom, the Courtroom, and the Classroom

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 3.09

$14.90

If you've ever found yourself stumbling in a debate or simply want to refine your persuasive skills, "Winning Arguments" could be an illuminating read for you. Stanley Fish, with his sharp wit and academic insight, turns the art of argument into both a strategic manual and an entertaining exploration. Whether you're looking to navigate domestic disagreements or political discourse, this book offers techniques that could make you the most persuasive person in the room.
The Big Stick: The Limits of Soft Power & The Necessity of Military Force
Eliot A. Cohen | Basic Books

The Big Stick: The Limits of Soft Power & The Necessity of Military Force

$24.90 $9.90 60% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$24.90 $9.90 60% off

86% off est. retail
If you're seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding America's use of military force in international affairs, "The Big Stick" by Eliot Cohen is an invaluable read. As a prominent scholar, Cohen convincingly discusses why, despite the evolving geopolitical landscape, hard power remains an essential element of the U.S. strategy. It's a thought-provoking book that challenges the optimistic reliance on diplomacy and economic sanctions alone.
Governing Animals: Animal Welfare and the Liberal State - Thryft
Kimberly K. Smith | Oxford University Press

Governing Animals: Animal Welfare and the Liberal State

$24.21 $8.90 63% off

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$24.21 $8.90 63% off

89% off est. retail
If you've grappled with the nuances between animal welfare and human freedoms, "Governing Animals" is an enlightening dive for you. Kimberly K. Smith doesn't just explore animal rights; she connects them to the fibers of liberal state responsibilities, inviting a thoughtful examination of our moral and legal duties. This isn't just about animal ethics—it's about shaping a society that values the vulnerable, human or otherwise. A riveting read for anyone interested in politics, ethics, or animal rights.
The Development of Political Thought in Canada: An Anthology
Katherine Fierlbeck | University Of Toronto Press

The Development of Political Thought in Canada: An Anthology

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$13.90

If you’ve ever wondered why Canadian debates feel so distinct, this anthology gives you the long view in a really satisfying way. It connects big modern questions like health care, federalism, and identity to the thinkers who shaped them, so the ideas feel alive rather than academic. This is a great pick for curious readers who want to understand Canada more deeply through the arguments that built it.
Economics in Perspective: A Critical History
John Kenneth Galbraith | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Economics in Perspective: A Critical History

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$13.90

This is a great pick if you want economics to feel human rather than abstract. Galbraith traces how big ideas were shaped not just by logic, but by money, influence, and self-interest, which makes the subject far more vivid and memorable. It feels like getting the backstory behind modern economics from someone sharp, skeptical, and deeply readable.
The Way Things Ought to Be
Rush Limbaugh | Pocket Books

The Way Things Ought to Be

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.6

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

86% off est. retail
Dive into "The Way Things Ought to Be" if Rush Limbaugh's unmistakable, conservative voice resonates with you, or if you're simply curious about the thoughts and philosophies that powered one of radio's most formidable figures. This book isn't just about political positions; it's a journey through Limbaugh's influential anecdotes, wrapped in his characteristic humor. Whether you're a supporter looking to echo his sentiments or a critic seeking to understand the other side, this book has a way of gripping your attention.
Fateful Triangle: The United States, Israel and the Palestinians
Noam Chomsky | Pluto Press

Fateful Triangle: The United States, Israel and the Palestinians

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$9.90

If you're keen on understanding the complexities of Middle Eastern politics, particularly the contentious relationship between the US, Israel, and the Palestinians, Chomsky's "Fateful Triangle" is an indispensable read. His meticulous breakdown of historical events, media biases, and the influence on public opinion paints a picture that's as informative as it is provocative. This book could broaden your perspective on international affairs and the often invisible forces shaping them.
The Prince
George Bull, Niccolò Machiavelli  | Penguin Books

The Prince

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$8.90

51% off est. retail
If the intricate dance of power fascinates you, Machiavelli's "The Prince" is essential reading. It slices into the heart of what it means to rule and how to survive in a world of power plays. This isn't just history; it’s a timeless manual that resonates with corporate strategies and personal ambitions even today.
On the Edge of the New Century
Allan Cameron, Antonio Polito, Eric J. Hobsbawm  | New Press

On the Edge of the New Century

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$11.90

If history sparks your curiosity and you're eager to delve into an intellectual analysis of the 20th century's aftermath, then "On the Edge of the New Century" by Eric Hobsbawm could be an enlightening addition to your reading list. Hobsbawm's reputation for comprehensive and thought-provoking works is on full display as he explores the evolving nature of conflicts and the state's role in a post-colonial, nuclear-aware world. It's a continuation of a conversation about how our past century shapes our current societal and political landscapes—ideal for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of modern history.
Torture, Terror, and Trade-Offs: Philosophy for the White House
Sold out
Jeremy Waldron | Oxford University Press

Torture, Terror, and Trade-Offs: Philosophy for the White House

$21.90

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$21.90

65% off est. retail
If you're concerned about how societies should balance security with human rights in the face of terrorism, Waldron's collection is indispensable. He navigates the complex terrain of moral and ethical decision-making with a clarity that connects philosophical reasoning with real-world implications. His insights will deepen your understanding of the laws and decisions that shape our responses to national security threats, making this book a powerful read for anyone interested in politics, law, or ethics.
The Battle for the Soul of Capitalism
Sold out
John C. Bogle | Yale University Press

The Battle for the Soul of Capitalism

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$13.90 $10.90 22% off

78% off est. retail
If you've ever been concerned about where your investments are really going, "The Battle for the Soul of Capitalism" is a book that can resonate with you. John C. Bogle, a finance pioneer, isn't just theorizing; he's spent his life in the investment trenches. His insights could alter how you perceive the responsibilities of financial guardians and the rights of investors like yourself.
Future Perfect: The Case for Progress in a Networked Age
Sold out
Steven Johnson | Riverhead

Future Perfect: The Case for Progress in a Networked Age

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$15.90

62% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the transformative power of technology and connectivity, "Future Perfect" is up your alley. Steven Johnson weaves a compelling narrative around how networked intelligence can revolutionize various aspects of society. It’s a thought-provoking read that provides an optimistic outlook on the potential for collective problem-solving in the digital age.
Food, Society, and Environment
Sold out
Charles L. Harper, Bryan F. Lebeau  | Prentice Hall

Food, Society, and Environment

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90

If you're curious about the intersection of our eating habits with societal shifts and environmental sustainability, "Food, Society, and Environment" might just feed your curiosity. It's not just a narrative of food through the ages - it's an insightful dissection of how our plates reflect and affect the world we live in, from social justice to ecological impacts. For anyone with a hunger for understanding the broader implications of what's on our forks, this book is a hearty meal for thought.
On Mercy - Thryft
Sold out
Malcolm Bull | Princeton University Press

On Mercy

$5.07

Goodreads rating: 3.14

$5.07

90% off est. retail
Is mercy more important than justice?Since antiquity, mercy has been regarded as a virtue. The power of monarchs was legitimated by their acts of clemency, their mercy demonstrating their divine nature. Yet by the end of the eighteenth century, mercy had become “an injustice committed against society . . . a manifest vice.” Mercy was exiled from political life. How did this happen?In this book, Malcolm Bull analyses and challenges the Enlightenment’s rejection of mercy. A society operating on principles of rational self-interest had no place for something so arbitrary and contingent, and having been excluded from Hobbes’s theory of the state and Hume’s theory of justice, mercy disappeared from the lexicon of political theory. But, Bull argues, these idealised conceptions have proved too limiting. Political realism demands recognition of the foundational role of mercy in society. If we are vulnerable to harm from others, we are in need of their mercy. By restoring the primacy of mercy over justice, we may constrain the powerful and release the agency of the powerless. And if arguments for capitalism are arguments against mercy, might the case for mercy challenge the very basis of our thinking about society and the state?An important contribution to contemporary political philosophy from an inventive thinker, On Mercy makes a persuasive case for returning this neglected virtue to the heart of political thought.
Why Globalization Works
Sold out
Martin Wolf | Yale University Press

Why Globalization Works

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.52

$8.90

69% off est. retail
Recommendation: - This highly acclaimed book by Martin Wolf offers a powerful and balanced case for the global market economy. It unravels the complex concept of globalization, debunking common misconceptions and addressing the critiques against it. Wolf's deep understanding of the global economy, coupled with his persuasive defense of international economic integration, makes this book essential reading for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of our interconnected world. Whether you are a student, a policymaker, or simply curious about the forces shaping our globalized society, "Why Globalization Works" will enlighten and challenge your perspectives, ultimately paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous global market economy. Note: Since it is a non-fiction book that appeals to a specific topic and audience, the recommendation focuses on the insights and value the book offers, rather than character development or compelling storytelling.
Ranciere, Public Education and the Taming of Democracy - Thryft
Sold out

Ranciere, Public Education and the Taming of Democracy

$12.26

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$12.26

75% off est. retail
This book provides an insightful discussion on the connection between democracy and education, with a focus on Ranciere's philosophy. It presents diverse perspectives from scholars worldwide and will be of interest to educators, philosophers, and policymakers who are interested in exploring the implications of Ranciere's work in their fields of study.
The Assault on Reason
Sold out
Will Patton, Al Gore  | Penguin

The Assault on Reason

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$8.90

78% off est. retail
If you’ve been feeling disoriented with the shifting political landscape and the overpowering influence of media on public opinion, Al Gore’s "The Assault on Reason" might speak to your concerns. It’s not just a thesis on democracy's decline but a call to action. Gore compels readers to consider the value of truth and reason in the public sphere. This book would be an empowering read for anyone interested in media influence, politics, and active citizenship.

Exploring the Depths of Human Thought

Here's a Philosophy collection to stimulate reflection and discussion. From ancient texts to modern-day treatises, our selection spans cultures and eras. It's perfect for those seeking a deeper understanding of metaphysics, ethics, and existentialism. Whether you're drawn to Eastern philosophy or Western minds, our collection is bound to offer profound insights. Ideal for both academic pursuit and personal exploration.