The Common-wealth of Oceana

The Common-wealth of Oceana is a significant work by English political philosopher James Harrington, published in 1656. The book presents Harrington's vision of an ideal state, drawing upon Aristotle's theories on constitutional stability.

Harrington believed that a stable democracy requires a strong middle class and that revolutions occur when economic and political power become separated. His ideas influenced later political thought, including that of Thomas Jefferson. Oceana advocated for specific governmental structures, such as landholding limits, a referendum system for laws, and official rotation. These concepts are linked to the tradition of civic republicanism, which emphasizes the connection between individual freedom, civic participation, and the common good.