The fifth edition of this leading text on political ideologies provides a clear & accessible introduction to the political creeds & doctrines that have dominated & shaped world politics. Ranging from traditional nineteenth-century ideologues such as liberalism conservatism & socialism to so-called 'new' ideologies such as feminism ecologism & political Islam the author offers a clear exposition both of the historical development of each ideology & the impact each has had on contemporary political movements parties & governments. Their distinctive ideas & values are highlighted together with the competing & sometimes conflicting traditions which they have generated. This new edition has been thoroughly revised & updated throughout with extended coverage given to key current issues such as multiculturalism & neo-conservatism. Andrew Heywood's uniquely student-friendly writing style is now supported by a range of learning features in each chapter. * Ideology Previews outline the nature of the ideologies & their central themes * On-page definitions give quick-reference explanations of key terms * Illustrated ' Key Figure' Profiles provide detail on important thinkers & their major ideas * ' Key Concept' boxes explore & unpack important ideas * Boxes on ' Perspectives' & ' Tensions' outline the differences within & between ideological traditions * Questions help to apply & reinforce understanding