Zuckert's book covers three different topics: the philosophical meaning of the Declaration of Independence's paragraphs regarding natural rights; Jefferson's personal views on natural rights; and the interplay between Locke's natural rights philosophy, the Whig political tradition, the Pilgrim/Puritan tradition and classical republican thought in the history and philosophy of America's founders. Zuckert argues cogently that natural rights philosophy was the strongest motivating force in the founders' view. Zuckert's book presumes some knowledge, but sets forth arguments thoroughly enough for the non-expert to understand. He also writes clear prose. All in all, an excellent book for anyone interested in the history or philosophy of the American founding.