This is a unique political theory textbook that invites students to apply the concepts they encounter to real world politics. Each chapter includes a 2,000 word case study to highlight the theories that have been discussed. The lucid and elegant contributions by leading thinkers enables engagement with the subject at its sharp end without any compromise in accessibility. This is essential reading for all political theory students from beginners onwards. Online Resource Centre The book is accompanied by the following resources: Student Site: Case studies for each chapter Annotated web links for each chapter Links to journal articles Instructor Site: Essay questions, seminar questions and activities

Catriona McKinnon is Professor at the Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Reading.