Empires: A Historical and Political Sociology

Empires have been a dominant form of political organization for much of history, with this book exploring their principles, relations between rulers and ruled, and their course of "rise, decline, and fall." It also examines the era of empire and its consequences.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 224 pages
\n Publication date: 13 November 2020
\n Publisher: Polity Press
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Empires have held a predominant position as the primary form of political organization throughout much of recorded history. In order to comprehend them effectively, it is crucial to delve into their principles, distinguishing them from other political structures like the nation-state. Exploring the intricate dynamics between rulers and the ruled within these empires is essential. Many scholars have posited that empires undergo a distinct cycle of "rise, decline, and fall." This book aims to shed light on these questions by examining a comprehensive range of major empires throughout world history, including both contemporary European overseas empires and ancient empires such as those in the Middle East, Mediterranean, Arab, Mughal, and Ottoman regions, as well as the two-thousand-year Chinese Empire.

Kumar's insightful analysis reveals that understanding empires not only aids in comprehending the politics of our contemporary world but also provides valuable insights into the complexities of political systems throughout history. By examining the principles, dynamics, and trajectories of these empires, we can gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shape political power and the evolution of global governance.

The era of empire, however, is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that cannot be reduced to a simple narrative of "rise, decline, and fall." Empires have emerged and vanished throughout history, driven by a multitude of factors such as economic, cultural, and geopolitical forces. The decline of empires in the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries has been marked by a range of challenges, including the rise of nationalism, the expansion of global trade, and the emergence of new political ideologies.

Despite these challenges, empires continue to exert a significant influence on global politics and international relations. The legacy of empires can be seen in the cultural, economic, and political structures that have emerged in their wake. For example, the influence of the Roman Empire on Western civilization is evident in the development of law, government, and architecture. Similarly, the Islamic Empire's spread of Islam and its contributions to science, mathematics, and art have had a lasting impact on the world.

In conclusion, empires have played a pivotal role in shaping the political and social landscape of the world. While they may have experienced periods of decline, they continue to exert a significant influence on global politics and international relations. Understanding empires helps us to better comprehend the complexities of political power and the evolution of global governance. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the twenty-first century, it is important to remain mindful of the lessons learned from the history of empires and to work towards building a more inclusive and equitable world.

\n Weight: 460g\n
Dimension: 157 x 235 x 17 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781509528349\n \n