Neil MacCormick (1941–2009) was one of the twentieth century's most important legal philosophers and one of Scotland's most influential public intellectuals. This book tells the story of his political and philosophical life, from his intensely political childhood as the son of 'King John', one of the founders of the Scottish National Party, through to his involvement in Scottish politics – especially as the author of SNP's constitutional policy – and his role as a Member of the European Parliament, helping to draft the European Constitution. With special attention to MacCormick's character, this book offers a reading of his entire oeuvre, covering his contributions to theories of legal and moral reasoning, institutional legal theory, nationalism, post-sovereignty, subsidiarity, and constitutional pluralism in Europe. This book reads MacCormick as a highly creative thinker who excelled in the art of constructing inclusive middles and thereby developed his own distinctive approach to politics and philosophy.

‘A major landmark in modern Scottish intellectual history, and more broadly a significant contribution to jurisprudence. Del Mar pays due attention not only to Neil MacCormick's ideas, but also to his character, family background, and multiple contexts, both academic and political.'

Colin Kidd - Professor of History, University of St Andrews

‘Del Mar's authoritative account establishes Neil MacCormick as one of the leading public intellectuals of the twentieth century. Accessible and engaging, it deftly contextualises MacCormick's personal qualities and professional preoccupations, contributing not only to legal biography but also to political, social, and intellectual history.'

Nicola Lacey - School Professor of Law, Gender and Social Policy, London School of Economics

‘An absorbing account of the life and work of a leading thinker and public intellectual of the last fifty years. Neil MacCormick supplies a striking example of someone who always sought to practise what he professed in the university, in politics, and in public affairs generally. Maks Del Mar beautifully captures the depth, range, and profound impact of his philosophy of action.'

Neil Walker - University of Edinburgh