The volume provides a chronological overview of the thoughts of the most important political theorists from antiquity to the present. The third edition has been revised and updated with newer approaches, such as Colin Crouch's concept of post-democracy. Additionally, a dedicated chapter on Hannah Arendt has been added. Through the political thought of individual political theorists, the cultural heritage of Europe and its historical development are traced. The featured authors speak for themselves through central quotes, and their positions are commented on in relation to contemporary issues. Numerous overviews and diagrams facilitate the entry into the history of political theory. This standard work is designed as a comprehensive handbook and working book for both beginners in study and scholars alike.