Includes bibliographical references (pages 460-475) and index.

1 What is Politics? -- 2 Political Ideas and Ideologies -- 3 Politics and the State -- 4 Democracy and Legitimacy -- 5 Nations and Nationalism -- 6 Political Economy and Globalization -- 7 Politics, Society and Identity -- 8 Political Culture and the Media -- 9 Representation, Elections and Voting -- 10 Parties and Party Systems -- 11 Groups, Interests and Movements -- 12 Governments, Systems and Regimes -- 13 Political Executives and Leadership -- 14 Assemblies -- 15 Constitutions, Law and Judges -- 16 Public Policy and the Bureaucracy -- 17 Multilevel Politics -- 18 Security: Domestic and International -- 19 World Order and Global Governance -- 20 A Crisis in Politics?

"Now in its fourth edition, this hugely popular textbook has established itself as the number one introduction to Politics for students around the world. Systematically revised and updated, the book continues to offer a clear and comprehensive guide to the most important conceptual and theoretical issues in the study of Politics. Paying particular attention to the interdependence of domestic and world events in present day politics, this latest edition is once again the ideal text to recommend to students undertaking introductory modules across Politics and International Relations programmes. With numerous features such as case studies, controversies, key thinkers and concept boxes, it helps students of all levels develop their critical awareness as well as their own views."--Publisher's description.