Jed W. Atkins is an Assistant Professor of Classical Studies at Duke University. His research focuses mainly on Greek and Roman political thought and ethics. In addition he works on the modern reception of ancient philosophy and the relationship between Greco-Roman philosophy and early Christian ethics.

Introduction; 1. Reading the Republic; 2. The dream of Scipio and the science of politics; 3. Constitutional change and the mixed constitution; 4. Political society and citizens' rights; 5. Natural law; 6. Legislation for the best practicable regime; Conclusion.