Al-Farabi is one of the greatest Moslem philosophers who had lasting influence on many Moslem thinkers coming after him. His book " on the perfect state" shows a clear "Shia" influence on his thoughts.

Though this book is somewhat expensive, it is definitely worth the money for those interested in understanding the political philosophy of al-Farabi. His book is truly beautiful in its philosophical grace. As a Christian whose tradition also was profoundly impacted by its contact with classical philosophy, I could not help being pulled in with great fascination peering into how Greek philsophy was adapted and understood by a philsopher of Arab-Islamic culture.

This edition is excellent. Included with the translation is the parallel Arabic text with variants and an extensive introduction and notes written by the translator, Richard Walzer. Walzer's work here is excellent making a reading of the contents of this book a study in itself.