This volume represents a major contribution to the history of ideas, in which political thought has always been central, and reflects the disciplinary tensions--and national differences--of what remains a "borderline" subject, located at the intersection of history, politics and philosophy. The distinguished team of international contributors explores the relationship between the history of political thought as a discipline, and the politics, history and culture of the various nations discussed, which include the UK, the United States, France, Germany, Italy, Central and Eastern Europe.