'Jonathan Hearn notes that 'competition' is often used as a boo-word – something always to regret or despise. Against this simplistic view, Hearn shows that competition, in both nature and society, has complex forms and functions. It can be damaging, but it is often a means to spur cooperation or mutual advantage. It is not confined to markets, as competitions in sport attest. This a fascinating, rich and timely book that will transform thinking on this topic.' Geoffrey Hodgson, Loughborough University
Introduction; Part I. The Ideas: 1. The context of the question; 2. The theoretical approach; Part II. The Analytic Narrative: 3. The decline of traditional authority, and the rise of corporate actors; 4. Militias to militaries; 5. From adventurers to companies; 6. From factions to parties; 7. From churches to universities; Part III. The Wider View: 8. The culture of competition; 9. The critique of competition; Conclusion; References.