This new study presents a fresh and coherent framework for students to understand today's key political ideas. It introduces students to the theoretical context of contemporary political ideas through a historical approach that brings them to life.

Introduction Part 1: The Inter-War Debate: New Theories of the State 1. Weber 2. Gramsci 3. Schmitt Part 2: Post-War Debates: The Recovery of Politics 4. Arendt 5. De Beauvoir 6. Oakeshott 7. Adorno Part 3: Contemporary Debates: Rights, Identity and Justice 8. Rawls & Nozick 9. Kymlicka 10. Foucault

Anthony M. Clohesy is a senior lecturer in the International Academy at the University of Essex, UK.

Stuart Isaacs is a senior lecturer in Social policy and Sociology at London Metropolitan University, UK.

Chris Sparks is a lecturer and researcher in Sociology and Politics at the Creative Community and Social Innovation Research Centre, Institute of Technology Sligo, Ireland