The twenty-first century combines new configurations of power with new technologies of influence. Professor Nayef Al-Rodhan explores this combination of challenges, drawing on a gamut of disciplines ranging from neurochemistry to international relations. He comments on the addictive character of exercising power, and the seductive promise of human enhancement, and many other unsettling and important themes.

Onora Sylvia O’Neill, Baroness O’Neill of Bengarve

is a philosopher and crossbench member of the House of Lords. She is an Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at the University of Cambridge and former President of the British Academy

A fascinating, multi-layered read on the nature of power and the human condition. Oxford University’s Nayef Al-Rodhan provides valuable insights into how political power is evolving in times of cyber-societies and artificial intelligence, when many highlight the increasing need for people to keep power in check and protect individual rights. ‘On Power: Its Nature and Future’ paints a conceptual and practical picture of power based on eye-opening interdisciplinary research that spans politics, neurochemistry and moral philosophy. A seminal work reminiscent in part of Henry Kissinger’s early writing, the book is a timely reminder of the perils of absolute and unchecked political power.

Franco Frattini

is two-time Italian Foreign Minister and former European Commissioner