This book argues that we need to understand political ideology if we are going to understand the political world. Eric Leonard book begins with a basic understanding of political ideology, emphasizing the need to understand the philosophical foundations of each ideology as well. Thus, the chapters are set up with the philosophical foundations serving as the basis for each ideology and the ideological implementation of these philosophies being the capstone of the discussion. It is through such an evolutionary approach to the subject matter that students can truly understand the principles of each ideological perspective and make it their own. Leonard brings each the ideology into the current political climate and discussing how someone who adheres to this position might view a particular event or issue. This allows students to gain an appreciation of their own ideological position in our political world, encouraging them to think in a critical and independent manner.
