Here are some of his most notable writings:
Major Works:
* The State: This is his most influential work, published in 1908. It outlines his theory of the state as an institution that emerged through the exploitation of one group by another. He argues that the state is a product of "political conquest," a process where one group gains power and uses it to extract resources from others.
* The System of Sociology: This book, published in 1922, is a comprehensive work of sociology that covers topics such as the nature of society, social classes, and the evolution of social institutions.
* The Sociology of the Legal Order: In this work, Oppenheimer analyzes the relationship between law and society. He argues that law is a tool of the ruling class, used to maintain its power and privilege.
* Theories of the State: This book examines various theories of the state, including those of Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, and Hobbes. Oppenheimer criticizes these theories for their failure to recognize the role of exploitation in the origins of the state.
Other Works:
* The New State: This book explores the possibilities for a new form of government that would be based on principles of justice and equality.
* The Future of Socialism: Oppenheimer argued that socialism was the only way to overcome the exploitative nature of capitalism and achieve a truly just society.
* The Science of Sociology: This book outlines Oppenheimer's methodological approach to sociology.
Oppenheimer's writings are considered foundational texts in the field of sociology, particularly in the areas of political economy, the sociology of law, and the study of social conflict. His work has had a significant influence on later generations of scholars, including Karl Marx and Max Weber.