Introduction to Political Concepts

This student friendly introduction to contemporary concepts and ideas will show why an understanding of political concepts is crucial to an understanding of political issues. By using real-life examples to relate political ideas to political realities, the hugely experienced author team make the subject lively and contentious in order to stimulate students to think about political theories in a new and refreshing way. Introduction to Political Concepts discusses traditional concepts such as state, liberty and justice. Using exposition and argument, the book enables readers to understand these traditional concepts and to develop a position on them. It also covers contemporary concepts, such as difference, human rights and terrorism, where the problems that these concepts address have either developed recently or have been given a new urgency by contemporary events. Suitable for 1st and 2nd year undergraduates studying political theory. Chapter Mapsshow the learning outcomes of each chapter Opening Test Casesplace theories into their real-world context Ideas and Perspective boxes help students evaluate theories from different viewpoints Biography & mini-biography boxeson tell students more about the thinkers who have had the biggest impact on political theory How to Readfeature enables students to understand the primary texts that are fundamental to an understanding of the subject Thought provoking picture program visually demonstrates each theory Innovative web site with Multiple Choice Questions, more case studies and links to political theory web resources will help students develop their skills and broaden their knowledge