This introduction to ideologies shows students why an understanding of ideology is crucial to an understanding of political issues. By using real-life examples to relate political ideas to actual political situations, the hugely experienced author team make the subject as lively and contentious in order to stimulate students into developing their own position on the ideas discussed. The book shows how 'traditional' ideologies such as liberalism and socialism have been challenged, yet also how some of their ideas have been incorporated into new ideologies such as feminism and ecologism. Suitable for 1st and 2nd year undergraduates studying political theory. Chapter Maps show the learning outcomes of each chapter Opening Test Cases place theories into their real-world context Ideas and Perspective boxes help students evaluate theories from different viewpoints Biography & mini-biography boxes tell students more about the thinkers who have had the biggest impact on political theory How to Read feature 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