This is a bold and timely analysis of the conflict in Northern Ireland, offering a comprehensive, up–to–date and constructively critical evaluation of the massive outpouring of literature on the subject. John McGarry and Brendan O?Leary examine the most common explanations of the conflict – nationalist, unionist, Marxist, religious, cultural and economic – highlighting their shortcomings and placing Northern Ireland within a comparative context. Synthesizing their conclusions, the authors advance a realistic but imaginative prognosis for conflict–resolution in this most troubled region. The book will be welcomed by students of contemporary history and politics and the general reader alike.