John Laird (1887-1946) was a Scottish philosopher who held the position of Regius Professor of Moral Philosophy in the University of Aberdeen. Originally published in 1944, this book presents a concise account by Laird regarding the nature of politics and governmental institutions. The text had its basis in a series of lectures on general political theory given to troops during World War II. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in political philosophy and the nature of government.