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This leading text provides a concise and broad-ranging introduction to the contemporary study of political theory. Each chapter discusses a cluster of interrelated concepts and examines how they have been used by different thinkers and traditions and explores related debates and controversies. The fourth edition of this highly successful and accessible book has been substantially revised and updated and includes extra attention throughout to non-Western approaches and international political theory.

Systematically covering the foundational concepts that have focused debate from Aristotle, Rousseau, Marx and Mill to the present day, this is essential reading for undergraduate and postgraduate courses on political thought and political philosophy. With increased discussion of the global dimensions of political thought it will appeal to an international audience, as well as to those lecturers interested in broadening their students´ horizons.

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1. What is Political Theory?.- 2. Human Nature, the Individual and Society.- 3. Politics, Government and the State.- 4. Sovereignty, the Nation and Transnationalism.- 5. Power, Authority and Legitimacy.- 6. Democracy, Representation and the Public Interest.- 7. Law, Order and Justice.- 8. Rights, Obligations and Citizenship.- 9. Freedom, Toleration and identity.- 10. Equality, Social Justice and Welfare.- 11. Property, the Market and Planning.- 12. Security, War and World Order.- 13. Tradition, Progress and Utopia

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Reviews of previous edition:

"Here is a marvellous introductory tour through the territory of political theory... Heywood has charted the area so clearly and matched his lucid thinking with such accessible prose that his guided tour is a tour de force, an ideal primer for new students of politics at both advanced and university level." - Jessica Sarago , Times Educational Supplement

"[A] lucid and highly engaging introduction to political theory. Heywood covers a large range of ideas and issues and he is particularly good at taking a synoptic view of these and making them accessible for those coming to political theory for the first time. No matter how high the ideal or how abstract the concept, he never fails to make it intelligible and to illustrate its relevance for the real world of politics." - Peter Jones, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK

"A brilliant text; superbly organised in terms of the complex subject matter, very perceptive and wonderfully clearly written. Quite the best book on political ideas available." - Bill Jones

"[A]n impressively comprehensive and clearly-written volume." - Harvey J. Kaye , Times Higher Education Supplemen t

"[N]ot only provides a remarkably lucid and informative analysis of a wide variety of theories and concepts, it also skilfully illustrates their relevance to modern-day political debates and developments... This is a fascinating and highly informative text which is clearly organised and written with wonderful clarity. Heywood conveys not only his undoubted expertise but also his enthusiasm for the subject." - Peter Dorey , Talking Politics

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Andrew Heywood is author of a range of best-selling student texts including Politics, Global Politics and Political Ideologies.

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