Truly international in scope, the book explores both Western and non-Western systems of political thought with intellectual perceptiveness, and focuses on the works and influence of all the key political thinkers throughout history. Starting from its sophisticated approach to political thought in ancient East Asia, India, Greece and Rome, it delves deeper into medieval Indian and early Islamic political thought adding to its pioneering examination of the influence of Buddhism on East Asian political thinking. Its approach to modern world political thought remains unparalleled. This timely and incisive book is an indispensable read for academics, researchers and students in politics, political theory and political philosophy as well as East Asian, Indian, Classical, Islamic, European, African, Middle Eastern and Latin American Studies. Most importantly, it is the best way for anyone to understand the range of world thought from the earliest recorded history.