online timed essay 45mins to answer one question CHAPTER 1, “INTRODUCTION TO GOVERNMENT IN AMERICA” NEW section “How Democratic Are We?” introduces new topics that are featured throughout the book reg
Description
Question how American democracy is developing.
The Struggle for Democracy not only provides students with an understanding of the American political process but also with the tools to critically evaluate that process. This text focuses on the role that democracy has played in the American story and asks students how democracy is—or isn’t—revealed in our politics and government. It also encourages students examine how deeply connected politics and government are with historical, economic, and social influences. Encouraging students to look for patterns in American politics government, The Struggle for Democracy both strengthens a fundamental aspect of critical thinking and tells a unique story of our country’s political development.
MyPoliSciLab is an integral part of the Greenberg program. Key learning applications include MyPoliSciLab Video Series, Explorer and Simulations.
A better teaching and learning experience
This program provides a better teaching and learning experience—for you and your students. Here’s how:
Personalize Learning—Reach every student at each stage of learning, engage them in active rather than passive learning, and measure that learning. Refined after a decade of real-world use and compatible with learning management systems like Blackboard, the new MyPoliSciLab is a customizable digital learning experience that supports each individual student’s and educator’s success.
Emphasize Outcomes—Keep students focused on what they need to learn. A new design facilitates print and digital reading experiences and turns this book’s learning objectives into a clear learning path. On MyPoliSciLab, practice tests help students achieve these objectives by creating personalized study plans.
Engage Students—Each student is different. Reach all of them with the new MyPoliSciLab Video Series, which features this book’s authors and top political scientists discussing the big ideas in each chapter and applying them to enduring political issues.
Improve Critical Thinking—Students get a lot of information about politics; your challenge as an instructor is to turn them into critical consumers of that information. Using interactive data to answer political questions introduced in this book’s infographics, Explorer is a hands-on way to develop quantitative literacy and to move students beyond punditry and opinion.
Analyze Current Events—Prepare students for a lifetime of following political news. Both in this book and on MyPoliSciLab, coverage of the 2012 elections and more keeps politics relevant and models how to analyze development in the American political system. Get up-to-the-minute analysis on MyPoliSciLab’s blogs or reflect on a theoretical case with a simulation.
Support Instructors—Make more time for your students with instructor resources—Test Bank, MyTest Computerized Test Bank, Instructor’s Manual, and PowerPoint Presentation with Classroom Response System (CRS)—that offer effective learning assessments and classroom engagement.
Features
PERSONALIZE LEARNING WITH MYPOLISCILAB
Designed as a window into a wider world for discovery, MyPoliSciLab provides unlimited opportunities for learning. MyPoliSciLab supports an active learning cycle — engage, assess, advance — for each student and each topic throughout the course.
A personalized study plan for each student, based on Bloom’s Taxonomy, arranges content from less complex thinking–like remembering and understanding–to more complex critical thinking–like applying and analyzing. This layered approach promotes better critical thinking skills, and helps students succeed in the course and beyond.
ENGAGE STUDENTS
Superior diversity coverage remains a hallmark of the book, with integrated treatment of issues related to the changing population of the United States
Pedagogically-driven design highlights a clear learning path through the material, and offers a visually stunning learning experience in print or on screen.
Immersive simulations in MyPoliSciLab let students experience first-hand how political leaders make decisions.
Core Concept Videos enhance the narrative in the book and help students grasp the main ideas and make links between them. These videos are available in the eText and MyPoliSciLab. Each chapter has a Core Concept Video. The six segments are:
The Big Picture: Preview of how the chapter fits into the study of the American political system.
The Basics: A review of key learning objectives that will be covered in the chapter.
In Context: A look at the chapter in historical, economic, or social context.
Think Like a Political Scientist: A political puzzle related to the chapter.
In the Real World: A look at different people–politicians, activists, etc.–in American politics.
So What?: Wrap-up of how the chapter matters to a student’s understanding of their democracy.
IMPROVE CRITICAL THINKING
The Struggle for Democracy encourages students to look for patterns in American politics and government.
A unique analytical framework presented in the first chapter illustrates the interactions between underlying structural factors–the economy, society, cultural values, etc.—and our political system. This framework offers a holistic view of our system.
Political Explorer activities are connected to the in-text infographics, encouraging students to dig deeper into the data and to see how it connects with the political landscape of their own communities.
Learning objectives embedded in every chapter help students stay focused on what they need to learn.
An infographic is embedded in every chapter.
Assessment is included for every exercise.
Each chapter concludes with a visual summary. Here, students can see the Learning Objectives along with short summaries of the main points and a learning pathway through the accompanying MyPoliSciLab activities.
ANALYZE CURRENT EVENTS
Coverage of the 2012 Elections keeps the study of politics relevant to today’s students.
Numerous updates to theory, judicial rulings, election outcomes, and policy.
The PoliSci News Review blog on MyPoliSciLab brings analysis of current events as they unfold on a weekly basis.
SUPPORT INSTRUCTORS
The Test Item File features a variety of questions, including multiple choice, short answer, and essay. The Test Bank is available in a variety of Learning Management Systems including Blackboard and WebCT.
The Instructor’s Manual offers instructors practical advice on teaching and creating effective lectures.
Class Preparation Tool collects the very best class presentation resources in one convenient online destination, so instructors can keep students engaged throughout every class.
Create a Custom Text: For enrollments of at least 25, create your own textbook by combining chapters from best-selling Pearson textbooks and/or reading selections in the sequence you want. To begin building your custom text, visit www.pearsoncustomlibrary.com. You may also work with a dedicated Pearson Custom editor to create your ideal text–publishing your own original content or mixing and matching Pearson content. Contact your Pearson Publisher’s Representative to get started.
New to this Edition
PERSONALIZE LEARNING WITH MYPOLISCILAB
Integration–To create a tighter pedagogical connection between this book and MyPoliSciLab, we integrated several new features that move students from the book to online active learning opportunities.
New design–A new design simplifies the presentation of content to facilitate print and digital reading experiences. It also focuses reading by turning our book’s learning objectives into a clear learning path backed by personalized study plans on MyPoliSciLab.
Videos–Videos now support the narrative in each chapter. The authors frame each chapter topic, and interviews with political scientists and everyday citizens look at interesting aspects of each topic. The videos are listed at each chapter’s start and can be watched on MyPoliSciLab.
Infographics–Infographics demonstrate how political scientists use data to answer questions like “How Long Did it Take to Ratify the Constitution?” or “What Influences a President’s Public Approval?” On MyPoliSciLab, students can use interactive data to further investigate the same question.
“On MyPoliSciLab”–In every chapter, On MyPoliSciLab helps students review what they just read. In addition to a chapter summary, key term list, short quiz, and further reading list, there are reminders to use the chapter audio, practice tests, and flashcards on MyPoliSciLab.
ENGAGE STUDENTS
“Can Government Do Anything Well?” –This new feature appearing in every chapter focuses on the divide that separates those who believe that “government is always the solution” and those who believe that “government is always the problem.” Focusing on important national problems, each feature looks at whether government or the market is better at solving them.
ANALYZE CURRENT EVENTS
Current analysis–The 2012 Election Edition features the most current analysis of American government and politics, including recent Supreme Court rulings on the Affordable Care Act, affirmative action, and immigration; the cause and consequences of the Great Recession; the effect of partisan bitterness on government’s ability to get things done; the impact of economic and technological trends on politics; foreign and national defense affairs like the ongoing war in Afghanistan, the Arab Spring and the status of democracy in the Middle East, and the rise of China as a formidable economic and military power; and of course, the 2012 national elections.
Globalization — Globalization and its impact on Americans is given greater attention in this edition.
Photos–Over 30% of the photos in this edition are new. They capture major events from the last few years, of course, but to illustrate politics’ relevancy, they show political actors and processes as well as people affected by politics, creating a visual narrative that enhances rather than repeats the text.
Data—The data in all of the figures and tables have been updated throughout.
Chapter by Chapter Changes
CHAPTER 1, “INTRODUCTION TO GOVERNMENT IN AMERICA”
NEW section “How Democratic Are We?” introduces new topics that are featured throughout the book regarding popular sovereignty, political equality, and political liberty.
Added mention of budget deficits under President Obama.
Added mention of Occupy Wall Street movement.
NEW Simulation: You Are A Candidate For Congress
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: How Do You Measure Freedom?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture Author Edward S. Greenberg illustrates how almost every social, economic, and technological development affects people and how the resolution of problems related to these changes eventually bubbles up through the political system.
The Basics What function does government serve? In this video, you will analyze this question and explore the core values that shape our political system and how the growing diversity of our population is changing — and reaffirming -- the definition of what it means to be American.
In Context Where did the basic principles of American government come from? Boston University political scientist Neta C. Crawford uncovers the Greek, Roman, and Iroquois roots of our political system. She also traces the expansion of the concept of accountability since the birth of the nation.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist Find out how and why research on American politics has shifted. Boston University political scientist Neta C. Crawford discusses how scholars who once focused on voters and institutions are now looking at deliberation as the primary indicator of the health of a democratic system.
In the Real World What is the government’s function in everyday life? Real people share their opinions on how involved the federal government should be in education by evaluating the effectiveness of the No Child Left Behind Act, which encourages standardized testing.
So What? Most people reading this book are part of the least politically involved age group in the country. Author Edward S. Greenberg invites students to make sense of the political processes and national debates that shape their lives every day.
CHAPTER 2, “THE CONSTITUTION”
Opening case study clarifies the issues of the new presidential power of executive signing statements, comparing the use of statements by President Bush with the use of statements by President Obama.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well? considers the degree to which government has influenced economic growth in America.
Mapping American Politics feature now includes 2010 census data.
NEW Simulation: You Are A Founder
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: How Long Did It Take to Ratify the Constitution?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture Author Edward S. Greenberg discusses how the Constitution provides the basic rules for how government operates in the United States and how the rules affect the degree to which the American people are able to govern themselves.
The Basics What is the purpose of a Constitution? In this video, you will discover the reasons why the framers wrote the Constitution and how the Constitution sets up checks and balances, the protection of liberties, and the framework we need for a functioning democracy.
In Context Why is it unusual that the United States Constitution has governed so long in its present form? Fordham University political scientist Costas Panagopolos explains why the Constitution is such a rarity and how it has succeeded in an evolving American society.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist How do the institutions created by the U.S. Constitution operate and how has their role changed over time? Fordham University political scientist Costas Panagopolos examines this and other emerging issues in the research and in the study of the Constitution.
In the Real World How well does the system of checks and balances in the United States work, and is it actually fair? Real people voice their opinions on whether or not they believe it is constitutional for Congress to check the power of the president–and vice versa.
So What? How hard is it to change the Constitution? While some features of the modern political process–such as political parties and lobbyists–developed without being mentioned in the Constitution, author Edward S. Greenberg explains how the constitution is structured to favor the status quo.
CHAPTER 3, “FEDERALISM”
NEW chapter opener considers the ramifications of the Supreme Court’s 2012 decision on the Affordable Care Act as well as the legal arguments raised during the trial with a description of the act’s supporters and detractors.
Discussion on same-sex marriage reflects:
Recent state court decisions,
Congress’s Defense of Marriage Act
The growing support in opinion polls for same-sex marriage.
Wickard v. Filburn (1940) case added to the section “The Supreme Court’s Long-Term Support for the Nationalist Position.”
NEW section “Recent Push-Back” details the Tea Party’s efforts at changing the President’s agenda.
Federal deficit addressed in “Mandates” section.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well? discusses the government’s role in creating and maintaining interstate highways.
NEW Simulation: You Are A Federal Judge
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: Which States Win Or Lose The Federal Aid Game?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture How did the national government become so much more powerful than state governments? Author Edward S. Greenberg traces the change to the Constitution itself and to a number of economic, social, and international developments.
The Basics Are you a states-right advocate? This video will help you understand how powers and responsibilities are divided between the national and state governments. You’ll also discover how the powers of the national government have expanded and consider whether this is in the best interests of the people.
In Context What is the primary mechanism for federalism in the United States? In this video, Barnard College political scientist Scott L. Minkoff explains how the national government tries to force state governments to adopt its policies and how state governments respond.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist Find answers to the most current questions that scholars of federalism are raising in the areas of welfare reform and state rights. Barnard College political scientist Scott L. Minkoff explores the challenges faced by state-rights advocates once they are elected to Congress.
In the Real World Should the federal government be allowed to mandate health care reform or should that power belong to the states? Hear supporters and detractors of Obamacare explain their opinions, and learn about the recent Supreme Court decision that handed this power to the federal government.
So What? Should the national government be involved in student loan programs? What about disaster aid? Author Edward S. Greenberg defines federalism and encourages students to decide if they believe in a strong central government or in stronger state governments.
CHAPTER 4, “THE STRUCTURAL FOUNDATIONS OF AMERICAN GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS”
Chapter opener on Boeing updated to reflect 2011 sales data.
Immigration section updated with 2010 census data.
Anti-immigration Arizona legislation information added in “Becoming More Diverse” subsection.
NEW subsection “Moving West and South, and to the Suburbs” includes Americans migration patterns beginning with The Great Recession.
“Income” subsection updated to reflect changes to the median family income and net worth of Americans since The Great Recession.
NEW subsection “A Troubled Middle Class” added based on recent events and trends caused by The Great Recession.
“Globalization and Hyper-Competition” section reorganized and shortened.
By the Numbers feature updated to reflect current global economic conditions.
NEW “Using the Democracy Standard” summary.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well provides arguments for and against government-backed research and development in the science and technology fields.
NEW Simulation: You Are A City Council Member
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: Can You Get Ahead In America?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture What are the most fundamental factors that affect what government does? Author Edward S. Greenberg argues that the nature of America’s economy, social composition, political culture, and place in the world are important factors often overlooked.
The Basics What is political culture and how is it formed? In this video, you will hear how some people describe American political culture. In the process, you will discover what core political values Americans share, how they are formed, and what major ideologies American embrace.
In Context Discuss the importance of American exceptionalism in American political culture. In this video, University of Oklahoma political scientist Allyson Shortle examines the core values that make up American political culture. She also discusses how these values gave rise to the American Dream.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist Find out what questions political scientists are investigating in the field of political culture. Southern Methodist University political scientist James Matthew Wilson assesses the impact of globalization and the emergence of ethnic and religious subcultures in the United States.
In the Real World Should the government correct the gap between the rich and the poor in the United States? This segment examines two opposing social movements–the Occupy movement and the Tea Party movement–and it considers the differences between their expectations for government.
So What? Do you know why more and more of your taxes will go towards supporting the elderly? Author Edward S. Greenberg lists some of the major structural changes that Americans will face in the coming years, along with their consequences for students.
CHAPTER 5, “PUBLIC OPINION”
“Issues of Sampling” section reflects new demographic information.
“Social Class” section reflects new demographic information.
“Region” section reflects new demographic information.
NEW information on voting patterns based on 2012 election.
“What People Know About Politics” section includes updated statistics and discussion on the Tea Party.
NEW statistics on voting patterns/issues based on 2012 election.
Data on public attitudes and opinions updated, including ideological self-identification, political knowledge, and turnout rates.
NEW discussion of Tea Party and Occupy Wall Street protest strategies.
NEW “Using the Democracy Standard” summary.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well? provides arguments on the government’s regulation of America’s financial system.
NEW Simulation: You Are A Polling Consultant
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: What Do Young People Think About Politics Today?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture Almost half of Social Security recipients do not know that they are participating in a government program, while 44% of Americans still think Obama is a Muslim. Despite these discouraging statistics, Edward S. Greenberg explains how public opinion is measured and why it should matter in a democracy.
The Basics How do people form opinions? In this video, we examine how we know what opinions the public holds, and how they come by those opinions. As we go along, you’ll discover that Americans aren’t always well-informed about government and policies, but that they share core values.
In Context How did the emergence of scientific polling in the twentieth century change our democracy? In this video, Columbia University political scientist Robert Y. Shapiro outlines the history of polling and the emergence of public opinion as a major factor in American politics.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist Uncover some of the new questions being asked by political scientists regarding public opinion. In this video, Columbia University political scientist Robert Y. Shapiro examines some of the new public opinion trends that are being researched.
In the Real World Should politicians listen more to their constituents (who may not be educated about all of the issues), or to their own sense of what is right and wrong? Hear real people weigh in on this question, and learn how presidents have dealt with it in the past.
So What? Why do you vote the way that you do? Author Edward S. Greenberg argues that there is nothing wrong with cues, such as political parties, to help Americans make decisions about elections, and he demonstrates how public opinion is generally informed and rational–even if certain individuals are not.
CHAPTER 6, “THE NEWS MEDIA”
Audiences for different media discussion updated.
Role of news parodies such as The Daily Show contrasted with the role of traditional media.
NEW WikiLeaks discussion.
NEW Simulation: You Are A Newspaper Editor
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: Where Do You Get Your Political News?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture Should we even pay attention to "old media" like The New York Times or The Washington Post? Author Edward S. Greenberg gives two reasons why these forms of journalism remain relevant in the age of tweets and blog posts.
The Basics How do the media help support our democratic institutions? In this video, you will find out how a free press functions not just as a source of knowledge, but also as a public forum and a government watchdog. You’ll also analyze how private ownership and partisanship impact the ability of the media to do its job.
In Context Trace the evolution of media outlets from newspapers to the new media that exists today. In this video, Texas A&M University political scientist Tyler Johnson examines the history of media outlets and the effect of both traditional and new media on the political information and messages that reach the public.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist How does the media shape public opinion? In this video, Texas A&M University political scientist Tyler Johnson discusses how media framing works and what market factors are influencing this process.
In the Real World What is the ideal relationship between the government and the media? Real people consider whether leaks of confidential government information to the press is good for democracy or whether leaks give the government too much control over the stories being told in the newspapers.
So What? Should the news be entertaining? Author Edward S. Greenberg discusses what kinds of stories appear on television–and why they are not always the most important ones–and he provides some rationale for why the news media operates the way it does.
CHAPTER 7, “INTEREST GROUPS AND BUSINESS CORPORATIONS”
Statistics on labor unions and on arguments between labor unions and states, such as Wisconsin, updated in “Labor” subsection.
“What Interest Groups Do” subsection revised.
“Lobbying The Executive Branch” Subsection rewritten and extended.
By the Numbers feature reflects new demographic information.
“Resource Inequalities” section reflects new demographic information.
NEW information provided on the Citizens United Supreme Court case.
NEW material added on hiring formal Congressional staffers in “Access Inequality” section.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well? presents arguments for and against federal mandates on minimum wage.
NEW Simulation: You Are A Lobbyist
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: Can Interest Groups Buy Public Policy?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture Why does a hedge fund manager making $8 billion pay 15% of that in taxes, while someone else making $200,000 pays 30%? Edward S. Greenberg illustrates how much power interest groups have over the government and its policies if they have sufficient time, resources, and access.
The Basics What are interest groups and what role do they play in our democracy? Listen to real people tackle these and other questions. Learn what types of interest groups exist in our country, what tactics they use to achieve their goals, and why interest groups matter.
In Context Examine the emergence of interest groups in American politics. In this video, Boston College political scientist Kay Scholzman traces the roots of interest group involvement in American politics and why they are an important part of the political process today.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist Do interest groups have an impact on policy? Boston College political scientist Kay Scholzman explains why this is not an easy question to answer. She also discusses how scholars determine which groups are represented and which groups are not.
In the Real World Is pizza a vegetable? This video illustrates the difference between elitist and populist theories of interest groups by examining real people's reactions to the recent debate over whether school cafeterias should count pizza sauce as a full serving of vegetables.
So What? Interest groups are another way for people to have their voices heard but some groups have more influence in government than others. Author Edward S. Greenberg considers how interest groups are unequal, and he offers some tips on methods you can use to make your voice heard.
CHAPTER 8, “SOCIAL MOVEMENTS”
NEW sections on the Tea Party and the Occupy Wall Street Movement.
NEW Feature Using the Framework discusses President Obama’s decision to overturn “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.
By the Numbers Feature updated to include Tea Party demonstration statistics.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well? explores whether the government should provide income for seniors through Social Security or privatize the current system.
NEW Simulation: You Are A Social Movement Leader
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: How Are People Involved In Politics?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture Why do some social movements work while others don't? Using the civil rights movement as an example, author Edward S. Greenberg lists the three things that affect how politically influential a movement will be.
The Basics Can social movements arise at any time? Or does there have to be pre-existing factors, and if so, what are these factors? This video grapples with these questions and reveals what answers scholars have uncovered.
In Context What is the relationship between social movements, civil society, and government? In In this video, University of Colorado at Boulder political scientist Anne N. Costain discusses Alexis de Tocqueville’s study of civic life in nineteenth century American and connects his work to social movements today.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist What is the main obstacle that researchers face when trying to determine whether political engagement in the United States has increased or decreased? In this video, University of Colorado at Boulder political scientist Anne N. Costain analyzes the possible denotations of political engagement and why it is such a hard concept to measure.
In the Real World Civil disobedience is a controversial form of political engagement. In this segment, we’ll hear what real Americans think about breaking the law to make a political statement, and whether they feel that the Occupy movement was justified in using the tactics that it did to get its point across.
So What? Learn how social movements break through the government gridlock. Author Edward S. Greenberg explains why social movements focus on disrupting the patterns of everyday life, and he discusses the movements that successfully changed how the government works.
CHAPTER 9, “POLITICAL PARTIES”
NEW chapter opener on the debt ceiling debacle of 2011.
Added information on Tea Party’s role in the debt ceiling debate.
Data on Obama administration, on divided government, and on demographics of party supporters added.
Updated information on how well promises translate into policy.
NEW 2012 party platforms information added.
Table outlining how beliefs of National Party Convention delegates compare to those of other Americans updated.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well? discusses the government’s role in providing disaster relief, particularly through FEMA.
NEW Simulation: You Are A Voter
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: Which Party Governs Better?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture While political parties are key to almost any democracy, America is the only one that has maintained a two-party system for over a century. Author Edward S. Greenberg looks at why our parties are different from those in other developed democracies.
The Basics Why do we have political parties in America? In this video, you will learn about the rise of political parties in the United States, the reasons why the two-party system continues to dominate American politics, and how the major parties differ from one another.
In Context Trace the development of political parties in the United States from the time of the ratification of the Constitution. Oklahoma State University political scientist Jeanette M. Mendez explains why political parties emerged and what role they play in our democratic system.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist How can we tell that Americans are increasingly polarized and what are the implications of this trend? In this video, Oklahoma State University political scientist Jeanette M. Mendez reveals how scholars measure party polarization at the elite and mass level and who is behind this phenomenon.
In the Real World Why do Americans only have two party choices–Democrats and Republicans? Real people evaluate the effectiveness of the “winner takes all” electoral system in the United States, and they weigh in on whether third parties–such as the Libertarians and the Green Party–should have more representation in national elections.
So What? Democrats and Republicans today are deeply divided. Author Edward S. Greenberg explains that while partisan politics is nothing new in American history, partisanship is so pronounced now that it makes governing in a rational way increasingly difficult.
CHAPTER 10, “VOTING, CAMPAIGNS, AND ELECTIONS”
NEW section with extensive coverage of 2012 election.
Election data updated throughout chapter discussions, including:
The Republican caucuses and primaries
Convention coverage
Voter turnout and how it compares internationally
Super PAC donations
NEW chapter opener based on results of 2012 election.
“Barriers to Voting” section updated and rewritten.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well? discusses whether the government can and should regulate air and water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
NEW SIMULATION: You Are A Voting Registration Volunteer
NEW EXPLORER INFOGRAPHIC AND MYPOLISCILAB EXERCISE: Who Votes And Who Doesn't?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture America has a lower voting turnout than many other countries in the world. Author Edward S. Greenberg considers why this is, and argues that the various obstacles to voting contribute to one of the greatest inequalities in our democracy today.
The Basics Do you have trouble figuring out when all the elections are and who you should vote for? If you do, you are not alone. This video will help you understand why the United States has so many types of elections, what purposes they serve, and whether money and campaign staff is vital to campaign victories.
In Context Discover how voter turnout has changed over the course of American history. Has enfranchising women, African Americans, or young people increased turnout? Columbia University political scientist Donald P. Green addresses these and other questions in this video.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist Why has the United States experienced a surge in voter turnout? Columbia University political scientist Donald P. Green analyzes voter turnout trends, and takes a look at how research conducted by political scientists on this subject has contributed to increased voter turnout.
In the Real World Not every citizen of the United States has a photo ID. Should everyone be required to have one when they vote? Real people discuss the issue of voter fraud, and whether it is a serious enough problem to warrant possibly disenfranchising a large segment of the population.
So What? How have elections changed in the United States over the last few years? Author Edward S. Greenberg lists some of the trends that students should look out for, including longer campaigns, increased concentration in America's "swing states," and unconventional forms of campaign financing.
CHAPTER 11, “CONGRESS”
Data reflecting 2012 elections updated throughout chapter (e.g., women in Congress, percentage of incumbents reelected).
Chapter opener on the 2012 Congress updated.
“Income and Occupation” section updated with data on members of Congress.
Gerrymandering section updated with 2012 Supreme Court decision on Texas case.
Mapping American Politics Feature updated with information on incumbent strength.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well? considers whether Congress has played a central role in making voting and citizenship in America more inclusive.
NEW Simulation: You Are A Consumer Advocate
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: Can Congress Get Anything Done?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture Why is Congress the most despised branch of government? Author Edward S. Greenberg diagnoses Congress' dysfunction as a combination of today's extreme partisanship and Congress's original design by the framers.
The Basics Why do we have two houses of Congress? This video reveals the answer this question and explores the differences are between the two houses in their organization and procedures. You will also learn how a bill becomes a law, how Congress is organized, and how members of Congress represent you.
In Context Discover the role that the framers expected Congress to serve in the U.S. government. Columbia University political scientist Greg Wawro discusses how Congress has become more expansive in its powers. Listen as Greg Wawro also delves into the process of creating coalitions in Congress to achieve policy results.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist Why has the United States become more polarized in the last decade? Columbia University political scientist Greg Wawro examines this central question and explains why polarization may be correlated to the income gap between the wealthy and the poor. He also explores recent research on the Senate as a super-majoritarian institution.
In the Real World Congress today is the most divided it has been since the end of WWII. It is also the least effective. Is compromise the answer? Real people consider the benefits and the dangers of compromise, and they discuss issues–like abortion–where compromise seems impossible.
So What? Who is to blame for Congress's inefficiencies? Are members distracted by the ongoing campaign for reelection that our system requires? Is it the Senate's recent reliance on filibusters? Author Edward S. Greenberg offers his explanations and encourages students to come up with some of their own.
CHAPTER 12, “THE PRESIDENCY”
Information updated based on 2012 election.
Chapter opener updated with information on the death of Osama Bin Laden and the economic policies of President Obama.
Updated data throughout, including:
Obama approval ratings
Presidential vetoes
Congressional gains/losses for president’s party in election years
NEW examples added using Obama’s administration to illustrate topics ranging from presidential relations with Congress to the president’s role in conducting foreign affairs.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well? asks students to think about how successful the government has been in creating and managing a national parks system.
NEW Simulation: You Are A First-Term President
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: What Influences The President's Public Approval?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture What actions can the president take without the approval of Congress, the voters, or the judiciary branch? A lot more than you would think. Author Edward S. Greenberg discusses the unitary powers of the president, and he traces how these powers have developed over time.
The Basics What do presidents do? The simple answer is “an awful lot.” In this video, you’ll hear what ordinary people think about what presidents should do. In the process, you’ll discover why there is often a gap between what we expect and what we get.
In Context Uncover the historical context that led the framers to fear a strong executive. In this video University of Oklahoma political scientist Glen Krutz not only reveals the reason behind the framers’ apprehension, but also explores how this fear still restricts presidents today as they struggle to create new policies.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist Why do presidents try to persuade you to support their policies? In this video, University of Oklahoma political scientist Glen Krutz discloses why persuasion is vital to a president’s success and how technology has created obstacles and opportunities for presidents.
In the Real World Should President Obama have used an executive order to change immigration policy? The president bypassed Congress to implement his own agenda. Find out why some people believe the president abused his powers and others think he was entirely justified.
So What? How has the role of the president changed since the writing of the Constitution? Author Edward S. Greenberg gives examples of different presidents who expanded their powers to accomplish what they felt needed to be done, and he discusses how subsequent presidents have interpreted their actions for their own agendas.
CHAPTER 13, “THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH”
Using the Framework Feature revised.
”Adjudicating” section revised to include recent dealings between Boeing and its Machinist labor union.
“Political Appointees” section updated to include a discussion of President Obama’s 2012 appointees.
“Confirming Presidential Appointments” subsection updated to include recent appointment information.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well? discusses how effectively the Center for Disease Control protects the public from the spread of infectious diseases and foodborne illnesses.
New Simulation: You Are Head Of FEMA
New Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: What Puts The 'Big' In Big Government?
New Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture Americans have long distrusted the government and resented its interference in our lives. Unfortunately for bureaucrats, they are the agents of that interference. Author Edward S. Greenberg considers the obstacles that these unpopular government employees face when implementing the other branches' policies.
The Basics What does the bureaucracy do? What is its role in our democracy? In this video, you will listen to what people think about bureaucrats and the job they do. You will also learn why the bureaucracy can have such a big impact on your life.
In Context Why is the bureaucracy important in the policymaking process? In this video, Texas A&M University political scientist Matthew Eshbaugh-Soha talks about not only the bureaucracy and its importance at the federal level, but also the role the federal bureaucracy plays in cooperation with state and local bureaucracies.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist Are bureaucracies democratic? And if so, how are they democratic? Texas A&M University political scientist Matthew Eshbaugh-Soha tackles this question and also looks at political appointments and other important research topics associated with bureaucracies.
In the Real World Is the federal bureaucracy too big and too powerful? Real people weigh in on this question and discuss whether they feel reducing the size of the bureaucracy is worth losing the protections that those agencies provide.
So What? What should we do if the bureaucracy is not working effectively? Author Edward S. Greenberg encourages students to first identify why it isn't working, and then seek changes through politics that specifically address the problems.
CHAPTER 14, “THE COURTS”
Chapter opener updated to include information on healthcare and immigration reform.
“The Supreme Court” section updated to include the 2011 Supreme Court judgment against the EPA.
Information added on Citizens United case.
“Original Intention” subsection revised and expanded.
“Groups and Movements” section updated.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well? examines the claim that government protects the due process rights of the accused without endangering the rights of others.
NEW Simulation: You Are A Supreme Court Clerk
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: Who Are The Activist Judges?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture How is it that the Supreme Court's most profound power–judicial review–is not mentioned in the Constitution? Author Edward S. Greenberg, details exactly what Article 3 says about our court system and where these additional responsibilities came from.
The Basics Do you have confidence in the U.S. court system? Watch this video to discover what the founders did to make sure the federal judiciary would be independent of political influence. You’ll also learn about an important check the Supreme Court has on the other two branches of U.S. government.
In Context Discover how the Supreme Court gained a check on the other two branches after the U.S. Constitution was written. East Central University political scientist Christine Pappas discusses Marbury v. Madison and analyzes how the power of judicial review has impacted campaign finance law.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist Why do legal scholars and political scientists disagree over how judges make decisions? East Central University political scientist Christine Pappas analyzes this and other questions scholars study. She explains how the other branches of government limit the role of the judiciary in public policy-making, and discusses research on how public opinion influences the courts.
In the Real World Should the Supreme Court have the power to knock down popular laws? This segment uses the Supreme Court’s decision in U.S. v. Arizona (2012) to illustrate the tension between protecting the law and having a government that's run by the people.
So What? Though the Supreme Court decides only about 70 cases per year, they are exceedingly important ones. Author Edward S. Greenberg explains why it is a mistake to call the judiciary the "least dangerous branch" as Supreme Court Justices have more power than you might think.
CHAPTER 15, “CIVIL LIBERTIES: THE STRUGGLE FOR FREEDOM”
Chapter opener revised to include recent changes to hate speech codes on college campuses.
“Nationalization of the Bill of Rights” section expanded.
“Offensive Media” section expanded to include information on the Supreme Court’s 2011 decision regarding the ban of violent video games.
NEW Using the Framework Feature about the decline of executions in the U.S.
NEW discussion added on the Occupy movement.
NEW Feature Can Government Do Anything Well? discusses the impact of the Patriot Act on the civil liberties of Americans.
NEW Simulation: You Are A Police Officer
NEW Explorer Infographic and MyPoliSciLab Exercise: Should The Government Apply The Death Penalty?
NEW Core Concept Videos available on MyPoliSciLab:
The Big Picture Did you know that before the 20th century, someone could be arrested by their state government for protesting on a street corner? Author Edward S. Greenberg discusses the significance of the fourteenth amendment, which required states to enforce the Bill of Rights and the civil liberties it protects.
The Basics What are civil liberties and where do they come from? In this video, you will learn about our First Amendment guarantees and about protections the Bill of Rights provides those accused of crimes. In the process, you'll discover how our liberties have changed over time to reflect our changing values and needs.
In Context Uncover the importance of civil liberties in a changing American society. University of Massachusetts at Boston political scientist Maurice T. Cunningham identifies the origins of our civil liberties and evaluates the clash between national security and civil liberties in a post 9/11 age.
Thinking Like A Political Scientist What are some of the challenges facing political scientists in regards to civil liberties? In this video, University of Massachusetts at Boston political scientist Maurice T. Cunningham raises some of the thought provoking questions regarding civil liberties that have arisen during the last decade.
In the Real World The American legal system and the American people have both struggled over whether the death penalty should be imposed in this country. In this segment, we’ll hear what citizens have to say about the death penalty.
So What? Which civil liberty do you most value? Using the example of freedom of speech in the aftermath of 9/11, author Edward S. Greenberg admires the degree to which the government still values a person's right to say whatever he wants, wherever he wants.
CHAPTER 16, “CIVIL LIBERTIES: THE STRUGGLE FOR POLITICAL EQUALITY”
Chapter opener on the return of segregated schools revised.
“Ending Government-Sponsore
Table of Contents
1. Brief Table of Contents
2. Full Table of Contents
1. Brief Table of Contents
PART I: INTRODUCTION: MAIN THEMES
Chapter 1: Democracy and American Politics
PART II: STRUCTURE
Chapter 2: The Constitution
Chapter 3: Federalism: States and Nation
Chapter 4: The Structural Foundations of American Government and Politics
PART III: POLITICAL LINKAGE
Chapter 5: Public Opinion
Chapter 6: The News Media
Chapter 7: Interest Groups and Business Corporations
Chapter 8: Social Movements
Chapter 9: Political Parties
Chapter 10: Voting, Campaigns, and Elections
PART IV: GOVERNMENT AND GOVERNING
Chapter 11: Congress
Chapter 12: The Presidency
Chapter 13: The Executive Branch
Chapter 14: The Courts
PART V: WHAT GOVERNMENT DOES
Chapter 15: Civil Liberties: The Struggle for Freedom
Chapter 16: Civil Rights: The Struggle for Political Equality
Chapter 17: Domestic Policies
Chapter 18: Foreign Policy and National Defense
2. Full Table of Contents
PART I: INTRODUCTION: MAIN THEMES
1. Democracy and American Politics
Democracy
| Can Government Do Anything Well? How Democratic Are We?
| Mapping American Politics: All the States Are Purple
A Framework for Understanding How American Politics Works
| Using the Framework
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Candidate for Congress
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: How Do You Measure Freedom?
PART II: STRUCTURE
2. The Constitution
The American Revolution and the Declaration of Independence
The Articles of Confederation: The First Constitution
Factors Leading To the Constitutional Convention
The Constitutional Convention
| Mapping American Politics: Equal and Unequal Representation in the House and Senate
| Using the Framework
| By the Numbers: Did George W. Bush Really Win the 2000 Presidential Vote in Florida?
| Can Government Do Anything Well? Encouraging American Economic Development
The Struggle to Ratify the Constitution
The Changing Constitution, Democracy, and American Politics
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Founder
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: How Long Did It Take To Ratify the Constitution?
3. Federalism: States and Nation
Federalism as a System of Government
Federalism in the Constitution
The Evolution of American Federalism
| Can Government Do Anything Well? The Interstate Highway System
| Mapping American Politics: Federal Dollars: Which States Win and Which Ones Lose?
Fiscal Federalism
| Using the Framework
U.S. Federalism: Pro and Con
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Federal Judge
> MyPoliSciLabExplorer: Which States Win or Lose the Federal Aid Game?
4. The Structural Foundations of American Government and Politics
America’s Population
| Using the Framework
America’s Economy
| By the Numbers: Is America Becoming More Unequal?
America in the World
America’s Political Culture
| Can Government Do Anything Well? Backing Research and Development
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLabSimulation: You Are a City Council Member
> MyPoliSciLabExplorer: Can You Get Ahead in America?
PART III: POLITICAL LINKAGE
5. Public Opinion
Democracy and Public Opinion
Measuring Public Opinion
Political Socialization: Learning Political Beliefs and Attitudes
How and Why People’s Political Attitudes Differ
The Contours of American Public Opinion: Are the People Fit to Rule?
| Can Government Do Anything Well? Regulating the Financial System
| Using the Democracy Standard
| Using the Framework
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Polling Consultant
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: What Do Young People Think About Politics Today?
6. The News Media
Roles of the News Media in Democracy
Mainstream and Nonmainstream News Media
How the Mainstream News Media Work
| By the Numbers: How Much Serious Crime Is There in the United States?
| Mapping American Politics: The Limited Geography of National News
Effects of the News Media on Politics
| Using the Framework
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Newspaper Editor
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: Where Do You Get Your Political News?
7. Interest Groups and Business Corporations
Interest Groups in a Democratic Society: Contrasting Views
The Universe of Interest Groups
| Can Government Do Anything Well? The Federal Minimum Wage
Why There Are So Many Interest Groups
What Interest Groups Do
| By the Numbers: Is There a Reliable Way To Evaluate the Performance of Your Representative in Congress?
Interest Groups, Corporations, and Inequality in American Politics
| Using the Framework
| Mapping American Politics: Fueling the American Driving Habit
Curing the Mischief of Factions
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Lobbyist
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: Can Interest Groups Buy Public Policy?
8. Social Movements
What Are Social Movements?
Major Social Movements in the United States
| Can Government Do Anything Well? Old-Age Pensions in Social Security
| Mapping American Politics: Worldwide Demonstrations against the Invasion of Iraq
Social Movements in a Majoritarian Democracy
Factors That Encourage the Creation of Social Movements
| By the Numbers Just How Many People Were at That Demonstration?
Tactics of Social Movements
Why Some Social Movements Succeed and Others Do Not
| Using the Framework
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Social Movement Leader
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: How Are People Involved In Politics?
Chapter 9 Political Parties
The Role of Political Parties in a Democracy
The American Two-Party System
The Democratic and Republican Parties Today
| Mapping American Politics the Shifting Geography of the Parties
| Can Government Do Anything Well? FEMA and Disaster Relief
| Using the Framework
| By The Numbers Are You a Republican, a Democrat, or an Independent?
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Voter
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: Which Party Governs Better?
Chapter 10. Voting, Campaigns, and Elections
Elections and Democracy
The Unique Nature of American Elections
| Using the Framework
Voting In the United States
| By the Numbers: Is Voting Turnout Declining in the United States?
Who Votes?
Campaigning For Office
| Can Government Do Anything Well? The Environmental Protection Agency
Election Outcomes
| Mapping American Politics: Ad Buys and Battleground States
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Voting Registration Volunteer
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: Who Votes And Who Doesn't?
PART IV: GOVERNMENT AND GOVERNING
Chapter 11. Congress
Constitutional Foundations of the Modern Congress
Representation and Democracy
| By the Numbers: Can Congressional Districts Be Drawn To Include Equal Numbers Of Voters, Yet Favor One Party Over The Other?
| Using the Framework
| Can Government Do Anything Well? How Congress Made Voting and Citizenship in America More Inclusive
How Congress Works
| Mapping American Politics: Majorities, Minorities, and Senate Filibusters
Legislative Responsibilities: How a Bill Becomes a Law
Legislative Oversight of the Executive Branch
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Consumer Advocate
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: Can Congress Get Anything Done?
Chapter 12. The Presidency
The Expanding Presidency
| Can Government Do Anything Well? The National Park System
The Powers and Roles of the President
| Using the Framework
The President’s Support System
The President and Congress: Perpetual Tug-Of-War
The President and the People: An Evolving Relationship
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLabSimulation: You Are a First-Term President
> MyPoliSciLabExplorer: What Influences The Presidents Public Approval?
Chapter 13. The Executive Branch
The American Bureaucracy: How Exceptional?
How the Executive Branch Is Organized
What Do Bureaucrats Do?
| Using the Framework
| Can Government Do Anything Well? The Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
Who Are The Bureaucrats?
Political and Governmental Influences on Bureaucratic Behavior
| Mapping American Politics: Tracking Where Homeland Security Dollars First Ended Up
Reforming the Federal Bureaucracy
| Using The Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are Head of FEMA
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: Who Put The 'Big' In Big Government?
Chapter 14. The Courts
The Foundations of Judicial Power
The U.S. Court System: Organization and Jurisdiction
Appointment to the Federal Bench
The Supreme Court in Action
The Supreme Court as a National Policymaker
| Can Government Do Anything Well?
| Using the Framework
Outside Influences on the Court
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Supreme Court Clerk
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: Who Are The Activist Judges?
PART V: WHAT GOVERNMENT DOES
Chapter 15 Civil Liberties: The Struggle for Freedom
Civil Liberties in the Constitution
Rights and Liberties in the Nineteenth Century
Nationalization of the Bill of Rights
| Mapping American Politics: Violent Crime and the Death Penalty
| Using the Framework
Civil Liberties and Terrorism
| Can Government Do Anything Well? The Patriot Act and Protecting Citizens against Terrorist Attacks
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Police Officer
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: Should The Government Apply The Death Penalty?
Chapter 16. Civil Rights: The Struggle for Political Equality
Civil Rights before the Twentieth Century
The Contemporary Status of Civil Rights for Racial and Ethnic Minorities
| Can Government Do Anything Well? Making “Equal Protection” a Reality
The Contemporary Status of Civil Rights for Women
| Using the Framework
| Mapping American Politics: Comparing Women’s Progress
Broadening the Civil Rights Umbrella
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Mayor
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: Are All Forms Of Discrimination The Same?
Chapter 17. Domestic Policies
Why Does the Federal Government Do So Much?
Economic Policies
Safety Net Programs
| By the Numbers How Many Americans Are Poor?
| Using the Framework
| Can Government Do Anything Well? Enhancing the Nutritional Well-Being of Poor Children
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a Federal Reserve Chair
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: Is Health Care a Public Good
Chapter 18. Foreign Policy and National Defense
Foreign Policy and Democracy: A Contradiction in Terms?
The United States as a Superpower
| Can Government Do Anything Well? Providing Health Care for Veterans
Problems of the Post–Cold War World
Who Makes Foreign Policy?
| By the Numbers: How Much Do Rich Countries Help Poor Countries Develop?
| Using the Framework
| Using the Democracy Standard
> MyPoliSciLab Video Series
> MyPoliSciLab Simulation: You Are a President during a Foreign Policy Crisis
> MyPoliSciLab Explorer: How Much Does America Spend On Defense?
> MyPoliSciLab Document: The Declaration of Independence
> MyPoliSciLab Document: The Constitution of the United States
> MyPoliSciLab Document: Federalist No. 10
> MyPoliSciLab Document: Federalist No. 15
> MyPoliSciLab Document: Federalist No. 51
> MyPoliSciLab Document: Federalist No. 78
> MyPoliSciLab Document: Anti-Federalist No. 17
> MyPoliSciLab Document: Marbury v. Madison
> MyPoliSciLab Document: McCulloch v. Maryland
> MyPoliSciLab Document: Brown v. Board of Education
> MyPoliSciLab Document: The Gettysburg Address
> MyPoliSciLab Document: Washington’s Farewell Address
Author
Edward S. Greenberg is a Professor of Political Science and a Research Professor of Behavioral Science at the University of Colorado, Boulder. Ed’s research and teaching interests include American government and politics, domestic and global political economy, and democratic theory and practice, with a special emphasis on workplace issues. He has just completed a multi-year, longitudinal panel study, funded by the NIH, that examines the impact of corporate restructuring on employees.
Benjamin I. Page is the Gordon S. Fulcher Professor of Decision Making at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. Ben’s interests include public opinion and policy making, the mass media, empirical democratic theory, political economy, policy formation, the presidency, and American foreign policy. He is currently engaged in a large collaborative project to study Economically Successful Americans and the Common Good.
Reader Review(s)
“The Struggle for Democracy is an excellent text for those who want to help their students become engaged citizens and to understand the fundamentals of our government. This text covers all the essentials of American government without overwhelming students with excessive detail and erroneous tangents.”—Laura Schneider, Grand Valley State University
“The Struggle for Democracy is perfect for first-year Political Science students. It provides key historical background and introduces students to the key topics and issues surrounding American government in our society today.”—Mary Anne Clarke, Rhode Island College
"The Struggle for Democracy endeavors to give students an explanation for why the American political system functions and governs the way in which it does—not just description."—Richard Unruh, Fresno Pacific University