Introduction. 1. The Study of Language and the Study of Politics 2. Obligation and Ideals 3. Obligation and Rules 4. The Social Bases of Obligation Rules 5. Obligation, Stability, and Change: Praise, Blame, and Disinclination 6. Obligation, Political Freedom, and Coercion 7. Obligation, Consent, and Utility 8. The Utility of Obligation. Bibliography. Index.