Librería Portfolio

The new edition of this leading overview of comparative politics once again blends theory and evidence across democratic systems to provide unparalleled coverage. The student-friendly structure and clear, concise writing ensure that complex issues are clearly explained and students engage with the key theories. The third edition is updated throughout, with a new chapter, ´Public Spending and Public Policies´, increased coverage of defective democracies, and revised coverage of e-democracy and the power of the media. The pedagogy is simplified with a focus on ´Briefings´ and ´Controversies´ that feature examples from across the globe, alongside clear key terms, ´What We Have Learned´ and ´Lessons of Comparison´ sections, and a wealth of online materials to complete a rich teaching and learning package.

Broad coverage of democratic governments is brought to life for the student through case studies and examples from across the globe
Includes fact files, briefings, suggestions for further reading and questions
A strong package of online resources includes MCQs for students and exam and review questions for instructors
Strong pedagogy throughout ensures that the relevance of theoretical concepts is conveyed clearly and concisely



Table of Contents
Introduction
Part I. The State: Origins and Development:
1. The development of the modern state
2. States and democracy
3. Democratic change and persistence
Part II. The Polity: Structures and Institutions:
4. Constitutions
5. Presidential and parliamentary government
6. Multi-level government: international, national and sub-national
7. Policy making and legislating: executives and legislatures
8. Implementation: the public bureaucracy
Part III. Citizens, Elites and Interest Mediation:
9. Political attitudes and behaviour
10. Pressure groups and social movements
11. The mass media
12. Voters and elections
13. Party government
Part IV. Policies and Performance:
14. Political ideologies: conservatism, liberalism, Christian democracy and socialism
15. Decision making
16. Public spending and public policies
17. The future of the democratic state
Postscript: how and what to compare?