In our chaotic era, our politics seems ever more volatile, and citizens ever less empowered. But Peter Allen's brilliant book reminds us to see from the forest from the trees-not to get caught up in this year's politicians and events but to see the core themes that have always driven how we organise, care for, and command each other. A wonderfully written guide to the fundamental forces that matter in our political lives." -Ben Ansell, Nuffield College