This book addresses all of the major topics of an American government course, such as elections, Congress, public policy etc. However, unlike many introductory books, it emphasizes a more topical and provocative approach that probes the very foundations of America's governmental and political institutions looking for answers to the question: "Why are Americans at odds with each other?" Each chapter includes a discussion of a significant political issue and presents both sides of that issue, showing how Americans are truly at odds with each other politically.