For several decades, anthropologists have been conducting field studies and theorizing about the political life of non-Westeren societies. This is a competent summary of the current state of knowledge in political anthropology. After presenting a definition of politics that is applicable to non-Western societies, Balandier discusses the relationship between power and kinship, social stratification and religion. He also deals with political developments in post colonial societies and suggests direction for further inquiry… His book will be of interest to those seeking a brief introduction to the subject.