In this work, first published in 1899, Bosanquet defined what he believed to be the fundamental ideas behind a true social philosophy. He criticised and interpreted the doctrines of Plato and Aristotle as well as many more contemporary writers, including Hegel, T.H. Green, Bradly and Wallace.

This new edition reintroduces on the central texts of late nineteenth-century political thought. In addition to the fourth and final edition of the Philosophical Theory of the State, the editors have added a comprehensive selection of Bosanquet's most important essays on political theory and social policy. Also added is a detailed new introduction, a guide to further reading, and an index. Together they make clear the social and political background and implications of Bosanquet's political philosophy and allow a more complete understanding of British idealism.