An investigation of the products of human thinking as it affects ""the nature of the good life for the individual and the nature of the principles which (a) do govern, and (b) should ideally govern the association of individuals in societies"", and logically (rather than chronologically) the progress of ethics and politics from the Greek times to the 20th century is presented. Professor Joad's fame assures a definite audience for this which should also appeal to the more intelligent follower of today's problems.