In the substantially revised third edition of this widely-used textbook Norman Barry provides a comprehensive introduction to contemporary political theory. The book introduces the main themes and concepts in political debate as well as the ideas of contemporary theorists including Rawls, Hart, Dworkin, Nozick, and Hayek. This edition features substantial additional material on the debate between liberals and communitarians and an outline of the main features of feminist political thought. Reviewers' comments on previous editions: '...well worth reading...up-to-date and comprehensive' - Michael Laver, British Book News '...a succinct introduction not merely to such modern masters as Hayek, but also work done in other disciplines...which has implications for political theory. It deserves a wide audience' - Gillian Peele, Times Educational Supplement