This is simply the best text on intro to political theory I've ever read. As a philosophy grad, this would be the one I'd use in the classroom as the primary text. Heywood is very thorough and detailed, but presents the material in such a way that it is very accessible to anyone interested in learning more about political concepts and process.

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet or computer—no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera, scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Political Theory: An Introduction Paperback – 28 May 2004
by
Heywood A.
(Author)
Sorry, there was a problem loading this page.Try again.
{"desktop_buybox_group_1":[{"displayPrice":"$145.74","priceAmount":145.74,"currencySymbol":"$","integerValue":"145","decimalSeparator":".","fractionalValue":"74","symbolPosition":"left","hasSpace":false,"showFractionalPartIfEmpty":true,"offerListingId":"aCGoS0ZE2d1qW%2Be4nwnFMAWmPwBhT6bGcec9kiGvjLPf76wjrvun0jkG6Lm%2FZ%2BQ4GK4jP1xM9whrVd%2FNHDNGN4Yx0STfyeUTIzNIQbZjwN0ZNnldrwcSdCYR4PRNb1FqBmhYdz2AZv%2BDlaBppsCjP1%2FYbAM2ZgzbosGob3S94hx6rjFvcqgmhyyNWdlCSEI6","locale":"en-AU","buyingOptionType":"NEW","aapiBuyingOptionIndex":0}]}
Purchase options and add-ons
The new third edition of the highly successful text has been revised and updated throughout to take account of new issues such as identity and difference, globalization and multiculturalism. The book provides a clear and accessible introduction to political theory and key concepts in political analysis. Each chapter discusses a cluster of interrelated terms, examines how they have been used by different thinkers and in the various political traditions, and explores related debates and controversies.
- Print length1 pages
- LanguageEnglish
- PublisherPalgrave UK Print
- Publication date28 May 2004
- Dimensions15.24 x 2.54 x 22.86 cm
- ISBN-100333961803
- ISBN-13978-0333961803
There is a newer edition of this item:
Product description
Review
Reviews of previous editions: 'Political Theory: An Introduction not only provides a remarkably lucid and informative analysis of a wide variety of theories and concepts, it also skillfully illustrates their relevance to modern-day political debates and developments...This is a fascinating and highly informative text which is clearly organized and written with wonderful clarity. Heywood conveys not only his undoubted expertise but also his enthusiasm for the subject...at 400 pages, it represents excellent value for money.' - Peter Dorey, Talking Politics '...an impressively comprehensive and clearly written volume...He writes clearly and smartly.' - Harvey J. Kaye, Times Higher Education Supplement 'Here is a marvellous introductory tour through the territory of political theory ...Heywood has charted the area so clearly and matched his lucid thinking with such accessible prose that his guided tour is a tour de force, an ideal primer for new students of politics at both advanced and university level.' - Jessica Saraga, Times Educational Supplement 'Political Theory is a lucid and highly engaging introduction to political theory. Heywood covers a large range of ideas and issues and he is particularly good at taking a synoptic view of these and making them accessible for those coming to political theory for the first time. No matter how high the ideal or how abstract the concept, he never fails to make it intelligible and to illustrate its relevance for the real world of politics.' - Peter Jones, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne 'A brilliant text; superbly organized in terms of the complex subject matter, very perceptive and wonderfully clearly written. Quite the best book on political ideas available.' - Bill Jones, University of Manchester
About the Author
ANDREW HEYWOOD is Director of Studies at Croydon College. He is author of Political Ideologies (second edition), Politics (second edition), and Key Concepts in Politics. He is an A-Level Chief Examiner in Government and Politics.
Product details
- Publisher : Palgrave UK Print; 3rd edition (28 May 2004)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 1 pages
- ISBN-10 : 0333961803
- ISBN-13 : 978-0333961803
- Dimensions : 15.24 x 2.54 x 22.86 cm
- Customer Reviews:
About the author
Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.

Discover more of the author’s books, see similar authors, read book recommendations and more.
Customer reviews
4.4 out of 5 stars
4.4 out of 5
24 global ratings
- 5 star4 star3 star2 star1 star5 star61%22%17%0%0%61%
- 5 star4 star3 star2 star1 star4 star61%22%17%0%0%22%
- 5 star4 star3 star2 star1 star3 star61%22%17%0%0%17%
- 5 star4 star3 star2 star1 star2 star61%22%17%0%0%0%
- 5 star4 star3 star2 star1 star1 star61%22%17%0%0%0%
How are ratings calculated?
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyses reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Top reviews from Australia
There are 0 reviews and 0 ratings from Australia
Top reviews from other countries
- BostonReviewed in the United States on 3 October 2011
3.0 out of 5 stars Political Theory
Verified PurchaseI had to get this book for one of my political science classes. First thing I can say that it is unbelievably dry. It is not hard to read but just one of those books you could read if you have trouble falling asleep. The coverage of the materials in the book are informative, I think it could have been done a little better. I do not recommend this for leisure material, only if you are required for a class or like situation.
- Jade TaylorReviewed in the United Kingdom on 29 October 2013
4.0 out of 5 stars Perfect for Political Theory
Verified PurchaseThis book gives a clear and comprehensive introduction to political theory concepts such as power and equality. I used it for my A level politics and then again for my Masters