ABSTRACT

In this introductory American politics text, Cal Jillson provides not only a sense of how politics works today but also how institutions, systems, political participation, and policies have developed over time to produce today's political environment in the United States. This historical context provides the necessary backdrop for students to understand why things work the way they do now. Going one step further, the book identifies critical reforms and how American democracy might work better.

In a streamlined presentation, Jillson delivers a concise and engaging narrative to help students understand the complexities and importance of American politics. Key features:

  • The 4th edition is thoroughly updated, including full analysis of the 2006 mid-term elections and shift in partisan control of Congress.
  • Chapter-opening Focus Questions; illustrative figures and charts; "Let's Compare" and "Pro & Con" boxes; key terms; time lines; and end-of-chapter suggested readings and web resources.
  • Companion website for students (https://americangovernment.routledge.com) features chapter summaries, focus questions, practice quizzes, glossary flashcards, participation activities, and links.
  • Instructor's resources on the web and on CD-ROM, including Testbank, Instructor's Manual, figures and tables from the text, and lecture outlines.

chapter 2|27 pages

THE REVOLUTION AND THE CONSTITUTION

chapter 4|25 pages

POLITICAL SOCIALIZATION AND PUBLIC OPINION

chapter 5|27 pages

THE MASS MEDIA AND THE POLITICAL AGENDA

chapter 6|30 pages

INTEREST GROUPS AND SOCIAL MOVEMENTS

chapter 7|29 pages

POLITICAL PARTIES

chapter 8|34 pages

VOTING, CAMPAIGNS, AND ELECTIONS

chapter 10|35 pages

THE PRESIDENT: Governing in Uncertain Times

chapter 14|35 pages

GOVERNMENT, THE ECONOMY, AND DOMESTIC POLICY

chapter 15|30 pages

AMERICA’S PLACE IN A DANGEROUS WORLD