James Q. Wilson Books
James Q. Wilson (1931–2012) was an American political scientist known for his influential work on public administration, crime, and moral behavior.
Known for: On Character
Books by James Q. Wilson
On Character
In this collection of essays, political scientist James Q. Wilson explores the moral foundations of individual and social behavior. He examines how character—defined by habits of honesty, self-control, and compassion—shapes civic life and public policy. Wilson argues that moral sense is not merely a private virtue but a public necessity, influencing everything from family stability to crime prevention.
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The Moral Sense
Human beings are born not as blank slates but as moral creatures with predispositions toward empathy, fairness, and attachment. We can observe this even in children, who manifest distress when others cry and pleasure when others are comforted. This moral sense is a natural sentiment, as much emotion...
From On Character
The Role of Family
The family is the seedbed of character. Within it, children first encounter authority and affection, rewards and restrictions. A child learns to say no to impulse because a parent once said no to him. He learns kindness because he has been comforted when sad. These early experiences weave emotional ...
From On Character
About James Q. Wilson
James Q. Wilson (1931–2012) was an American political scientist known for his influential work on public administration, crime, and moral behavior. He taught at Harvard University and UCLA and authored several landmark books, including 'Thinking About Crime' and 'Bureaucracy: What Government Agencie...
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James Q. Wilson (1931–2012) was an American political scientist known for his influential work on public administration, crime, and moral behavior. He taught at Harvard University and UCLA and authored several landmark books, including 'Thinking About Crime' and 'Bureaucracy: What Government Agencie...
James Q. Wilson (1931–2012) was an American political scientist known for his influential work on public administration, crime, and moral behavior. He taught at Harvard University and UCLA and authored several landmark books, including 'Thinking About Crime' and 'Bureaucracy: What Government Agencies Do and Why They Do It.'
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James Q. Wilson (1931–2012) was an American political scientist known for his influential work on public administration, crime, and moral behavior.
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