This second edition of an established textbook on political ideology
provides a comprehensive, up-to-date introduction to the powerful and
persuasive ideas which have motivated the actions of both political
leaders and the electorate. Political ideology today begins with an
explanation of the nature of ideology and the part it plays in political
life, and then looks at each of the main ideologies in turn. The book
takes a broadly historical approach to show how each ideology has
evolved as a tradition with a variety of sometimes conflicting forms.
Liberalism, socialism, conservatism, Marxism, anarchism and fascism are
all discussed, together with more recent developments in religious and
sexual politics, environmentalism and animal rights. All of these are
discussed in the light of recent important events, including the Asian
financial crisis, the Balkan wars and the election of the New Labour
government. The book also takes into account the growing importance of
post-Marxism,
communitarianism, multiculturalism, and postmodernism. Adams shows that
contemporary ideological thinking is thriving, despite the 'end of
ideology' proclaimed after the capitalist West's triumph in the Cold
War. He also discusses prospects for future ideological developments,
including the growth of small scale and local ideologies. This book is
suitable for A level and undergraduate students of contemporary politics
and political theory.