The Definitive Guide to Political Ideologies
by
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Why does political ideology matter?
Try as you might, you cannot escape politics. It has you in its grip from the minute you are conceived to the moment you shuffle off this mortal coil. Virtually all aspects of our behaviour are influenced – even governed – by the parameters of politics. There is surely nothing within the realm of human understanding more all-pervasive than politics. Therefore, it must logically follow that the inquisitive amongst us should cultivate our understanding of politics in order to better understand ourselves and the world that surrounds us.
Political ideas determine the course of human history. They reflect the very best of human nature and the very worst that humanity is capable of. Political ideas can be an overwhelming force for good, or the basis for almost unimaginable destruction. Hope and fear are always present at the table of political ideas - very often in the same ideology. Take the concept of freedom as an example. Virtually all of us lead more hopeful and fulfilling lives due to the march of freedom. However, the concept of ‘freedom’ has been used to justify terrible atrocities throughout the ages. In the immortal words of one of the many nameless victims of the Robespierre-led terror following the French Revolution; “Freedom – how many crimes have been committed in your name!” A similar observation could be made about a myriad of other political concepts and ideas ranging from equality to national unity.
The origins and importance of the term ‘ideology’
The term
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Book Details
About the Book
The book has been designed with the A Level and undergraduate student in mind. Each Chapter contains;
A summary of how each ideology views the issues presented by the concept of equality, the role of the state, the relationship between the individual and society, etc.
Coverage of all the main strands of thought
Recommended reading with a brief description of each book
Ideas for further discussion in the classroom
A summary of useful quotes
All the key terms summarised
As the title states this is the definitive guide to political ideologies. Over a hundred key theorists are refered to, and all A Level syllabus routes are covered (as well as Cambridge Pre-U). The definitive guide to political ideologies is also applicable for undergraduates.
About the Author
Kevin Bloor is an author of several books including Introduction to Politics, Understanding Political ideas and ideologies, Introduction to GCSE Sociology and A Level Politics Made Easy (2nd Edition). He has also written educational resources covering Politics, Sociology and Economics; having taught the Social Sciences for over a decade. He is currently writing a book entitled Understanding Political Theory.