Compact and jargon-free, this book focuses on the major issues and themes of comparative politics. It limits its focus to ten major countries so readers won't be overwhelmed by excessive details. Democratization and globalization. Political issues and changes in developing countries. Alternative institutional frameworks. The effects of socioeconomic cleavages. Non-western cultures and values. Electoral systems. New directions in comparative research. For anyone wanting a readable introduction to comparative politics and a broader understanding of world politics.
Synopsis
The book approaches the study of comparative politicsfrom a topical or thematic viewpoint. Rather than focus on descriptions ofindividual countries, it addresses the major issues and theories ofcomparative politics. The emphasis is oncomparison as a tool for social science research as a means ofunderstanding broader trends in world politics. The book introduces keyconcepts and theories of comparative politics in a readable and easilyunderstood format without jargon and unnecessary complexity; introduces theprincipal issues that countries consider in addressing today's politicalproblems, including electoral reform, party accountability, andexecutive/legislative relations.
