Michael L. McLendon

Michael L. McLendon is a Professor of Political Science at California State University, Los Angeles, affiliated with the College of Natural & Social Sciences and the Department of Political Science. He has held academic roles since 2001, including Chair of the Department of Political Science (2018-2020). His work bridges political philosophy and contemporary societal issues.

Research interests include political philosophy, social theory, and comparative political thought, with a focus on Rousseau’s and Tocqueville’s legacies. His scholarship explores concepts like amour-propre, skepticism, domination, and the psychological underpinnings of democratic theory.

Recent publications analyze Rousseau’s Social Contract, effective altruism, mask mandates, and continuities in the general will concept. His work spans books, peer-reviewed journals, and commentaries in The Washington Post and The Conversation.

Contact: mmclend2@exchange.calstatela.edu