Politics play a central role in all organisations but to this point they have largely been seen as a negative force. Butcher and Clarke expose this as a misunderstanding and show how political behaviour is entirely endemic to managerial activity and how understanding and managing it can have extremely powerful positive effects. They provide an approach to managing politics by balancing personal and organisational interests and show how the centrality of politics to organisational life make it the ideal place from which to change existing patterns of power and influence. Essential reading for directors and senior managers.