Understand politics - Peter Joyce

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A complete introduction to politics and the workings of government

Focusing on the institutions of government and the political systems operating in liberal democratic states, it will give you an understanding of the operations of these political systems, the key political themes and the differences that exist between them. Using contemporary examples from all over the world, this title is essential reading for all those who want to know more about our world today.

Understand Politics includes:

Chapter 1: Key issues in the study of politics

Chapter 2: Liberal democracy

Chapter 3: Political ideologies

Chapter 4: Elections and electoral systems

Chapter 5: Parties and party systems

Chapter 6: Pressure groups

Chapter 7: The media Chapter 8: Constitutions

Chapter 9: The executive branch of government

Chapter 10: The bureaucracy

Chapter 11: The legislative branch of government

Chapter 12: The judiciary and law enforcement

Chapter 13: Sub-national government

Chapter 14: The nation state in the modern world

Learn effortlessly with a new easy-to-read page design and interactive features:

Not got much time?

One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started.

Author insights

Lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience.

Test yourself

Tests in the book and online to keep track of your progress.

Extend your knowledge

Extra online articles to give you a richer understanding of the subject.

Five things to remember

Quick refreshers to help you remember the key facts.

Try this

Innovative exercises illustrate what you've learnt and how to use it.