American Politics and Society

Now in its eighth edition, this popular introduction tackles the most recent trends in American politics and society through explanation, analyses, and interpretations of government processes &ndash, adding valuable context for students by considering these procedures and developments from an international perspective. Fully updated to take account of the many recent developments in American politics and society &ndash, exploring one of the most turbulent political arenas witnessed in decades Features new chapters on environmental politics and the Obama presidency Shifts its focus from the gap between public expectations and government performance to the increasingly divisive ideological climate of America&rsquo,s political system Benefits from a student–friendly style and design with numerous illustrations and a range of helpful pedagogical features, including chronologies, biographies, and definition boxes highlighting key concepts and controversial issues Offers thought–provoking insights into the social background to contemporary politics in America, while fully embracing the latest developments and considering these from a non–U.S. perspective

List of Plates xiv List of Figures xvii List of Tables xx Preface to the Eighth Edition xxii 1 Government and the People in a Polarized Society 1 2 Beliefs, Values and American Society 6 3 Constitutional Government 41 4 Federalism and Intergovernmental Relations 63 5 American Political Parties and the Politics of Polarization 86 6 Elections and Political Participation 111 7 The Media and American Politics 146 8 Congress I: The People&rsquo,s Branch? 160 9 Congress II: Functions and Powers &ndash, The Broken Branch? 183 10 The Presidency I: Powers and Selection 212 11 The Presidency II: The President as Chief Executive 232 12 Bureaucratic Power: Federal Departments and Agencies 256 13 The Security State 278 14 Organized Interests: The Real Power? 291 15 The Supreme Court and Judicial Politics 315 16 Regulating Morality: Civil Rights, Liberties and the Conscience Issues 345 17 Social Policy in America: Self–Reliance and State Dependence 364 18 Managing Economic Change 377 19 Environmental Politics 397 20 The American World Role 411 21 The American Political System in an Uncertain World 425 Websites 433 Glossary 437 Appendix: The Constitution of the United States 449 Index 469