Abstract

This essay considers the significance of the sixteenth century essayist Michel de Montaigne for Michael Oakeshott and Raymond Geuss: twentieth century philosophers associated with contemporary political realism, who nevertheless occupy divergent positions on the ideological spectrum. The aim, in doing so, is twofold: to contribute to attempts at uncovering a tradition of realism and realistic thinkers, and to single out Montaigne’s potential substantial relevance for some of the contemporary debates in political theory.