Dean (sociology, Macquarie University, Australia) introduces the concept of governmentality derived from Michel Foucault, and explores Foucault's methods and concepts in relationship to a wide range of socio-political, philosophical, and historical thought. The book situates concepts of 'government' and 'governmentality' within the broader conceptual field of relations of power, including relations among sovereignty and bio-politics. The first edition was originally published in 1999. This second edition is revised and updated to reflect theoretical, social, and political developments. This edition draws on Foucault's lectures at the Collège de France in 1977-78 and 1978-79 (which were not published until 2004), particularly the sections on liberalism and neo-liberalism, and on pastoral power, police, and reasons of state. There is a new introduction on the current state of governmentality, and a new chapter on international governmentality, plus a postscript on the crisis of neo-liberalism. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)