This text introduces the key conceptual debates and approaches in contemporary political sociology. The book explores the relationship between the state and civil society, as well as important topical issues like globalization, the rise of new social movements, neo-liberalism, citizenship, political culture, and political participation. The reader is introduced to the key processes that are changing the nature of politics and society in the modern world. Critiques of key sociologists, such as Giddens, Beck, and Etzioni are presented, and boxes and charts are used to highlight key facts and figures