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Synopsis Political theory has emerged as one of the core areas of political science. Political theory, as an academic discipline, deals with contemporary problems ranging from local issues to the global, with a view to establishing a good social order. The debate regarding good social order is conducted within the paradigms of liberalism, social democracy, rule of law and constitutionalism. This explains why many argue that the entire edifice of the discipline is based on political theory, as no comprehension of any other area, in any meaningful manner, is possible without an understanding of it. Till recently the study of political science was institutional in focus and historical in approach. This tendency has existed from the time of Socrates to the present day. Scholars, now give more emphasis to the functional aspects of political organization and processes. They also place stress on the institutions and the structure of the state. This, however, does not diminish the utility of political theory as an academic discipline. This shift in the focus of political science has necessitated a change in the pattern of its study. This book political theory in five parts entitled, Political theory-a theoretical perspective, Political theory-an Indian perspective, Political theory-a philosophical perspective, Political theory-an administrative perspective, Political theory-a global perspective is a comprehensive work for the benefit of students pursuing higher education and also for those preparing for Civil Service Examinations. This will also be highly useful to the political practitioners, although it is only an introduction to the theory and practice of politics.