Description
This text integrates perspectives which stress economic, cultural, and international factors in the shaping of political events with a traditional comparative emphasis on institutions, elites, parties, groups, and mass behavior. It focuses on defining issues of the coming decade: human rights, the environment, economic reform, and social equity. Includes b&w photos. For this second edition, theoretical material is simplified, and presentation is shorter and more focused. There is a new chapter on Mexico, and a glossary. Palmer teaches political science and directs the Center for Arab and Middle East Studies at the American University of Beirut. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
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This readable introduction to the theory and practice of comparative politics views politics as a complex process involving a broad range of institutional, behavioral, and textual factors. These concepts are used as a basis for analyzing ten countries that will play a dominant role in shaping the world community and that represent a cross-section of diverse regions, economic systems, and levels of development. Each chapter reviews the country's history; its major political institutions and the way they influence the policy-making process; the role of elites, parties, groups, and masses; and the broader cultural, economic, and international contexts. Each chapter concludes with a current assessment of the country in terms of the United Nations' definition of good government and a discussion of future challenges.
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