John Finch and Early Modern Empire

Explore a crucial yet overlooked chapter in 17th-century political thought with this book, which delves into the writings of John Finch and Thomas Baines during their service as English ambassadors to the Ottoman Empire between 1674 and 1681. This groundbreaking work represents the first extensive scholarly exploration of Finch's political philosophy, offering insights into his theories on statecraft, religion, and the Ottoman Empire. Focusing on Finch's understanding of the Ottoman Empire and his intricate theory of sovereignty, the thesis unveils a synthesis of skeptical epistemology, defense of royal supremacy over the Church of England, and a nuanced perspective on Ottoman history and politics. In Finch's worldview, liberty and coercion emerge as equally essential and legitimate tools of governance.