Bentley, Truman, and the study of groups

Abstract

Arthur F. Bentley and David Truman helped develop the so-called group interpretation of politics. They argued that all political activity is groups pursuing their interests against the interests of others. Despite their influence, Bentley and Truman are increasingly forgotten. This paper reviews their group interpretation, focusing on its philosophical basis. The paper argues for the continued significance and value of the group interpretation and of the pragmatist view of social science on which it is based.