In this provocative but balanced essay, Kenneth Minogue discusses the development of politics from the ancient world to the twentieth century. He prompts us to consider why political systems evolve, how politics offers both power and order in our society, whether democracy is always a good thing, and what future politics may have in the twenty-first century. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

"This is a fascinating book which sketches, in a very short space, one view of the nature of politics the reader is challenged, provoked and stimulated by Minogue's trenchant views." - Ian Davies, Talking Politics

"a dazzling but unpretentious display of great scholarship and humane reflection." - Neil O'Sullivan, University of Hull

"Professor Minogue's slim volume is an admirably light and sensible guide to political practitioners and students who want to learn more about the theoretical and historical context of today's controversies." - Sir Philip Goodhart

"Kenneth Minogue is a very lively stylist who does not distort difficult ideas." - Maurice Cranston

"Minogue is an admirable choice for showing us the nuts and bolts of the subject." - Nicholas Lezard, Guardian