Structured analytically, the book introduces the reader to all the facets of citizenship. These are illustrated by reference both to a broad range of theoretical writing from Aristotle to the present day, and to the actual provisions of the status in a number of countries. The volume explores, in addition, a diverse range of pressing issues, including: the differences between the civic republican and liberal styles of citizenship; the origins and current relationship between citizenship and nationality and the issue of multiculturalism; the problems experienced by "second-class" citizens; the concept of "multiple citizenship" including the status of EU citizenship; the changing definition of "world citizenship"; and the role of education in creating citizens.

This book provides an invaluable introduction to this concept for students, teachers, and the general reader interested in the debates about citizenship today.