This comprehensive and authoritative Encyclopedia, featuring entries written by academic experts in the field, explores the diverse topics within the discipline of political sociology. By looking at both macro- and micro-components, questions relating to nation-states, political institutions and their development, and the sources of social and political change such as social movements and other forms of contentious politics, are raised and critically analysed. The Elgar Encyclopedia of Political Sociology highlights the key questions relating to political sociology through demonstrating that issues relating to power and political conflict, as well as the relationship between societies and states, are critical for understanding contemporary political and social contexts. The entries also shed light on the current position of this interdisciplinary field of study, which sits at the interface between political science and sociology, and consider its aims in addressing those aspects that pertain to the critical interplay between factors relating to both fields. A timely and stimulating reference work, this Encyclopedia will be a key resource for researchers and students in the field of political sociology, political science and theory, social policy, social theory, and public policy, providing both an excellent entry point for study as well as an essential reference tool for more experienced academics. Key Features: Discusses major approaches and theories Summarising key topics in over 160 entries Includes entries on key historical thinkers and concepts Presents frontier areas across the discipline for future research work