What exactly is politics? Why do we need it? And where is it leading us in this turbulent era? How did the vast gap between the rich and the poor happen? Why do countries like Syria and Denmark differ so much?

In this short but highly informative book, one of our top political scientists raises crucial questions. David Runciman explores perceptions of power, the state, and leadership, from Machiavelli to Hobbes and from Max Weber to the functioning of social media. Additionally, he examines power, justice, and violence not only as historical concepts but also as pressing issues of our time.