by: Patterson, Thomas

ISBN: 9780073526409 | 0073526401

In today’s climate of hyper-partisanship, blurred lines between political news, analysis, and entertainment, and outrageous comments from the chattering classes, who better than Tom Patterson to provide students with the tools and context to make informed judgments and become skilled political thinkers? Patterson’s The American Democracy has long been a best seller for American government courses due to its insightful, readable, and balanced portrayal of the American political system. The 11th edition continues this tradition of excell... MOREence while also introducing a new emphasis on political thinking at a time when the partisan divide seemingly could not be wider and unbiased political information is often drowned out by other sources.

With expertise in the areas of public opinion, the media, and elections among other areas, Tom Patterson is a voice you can trust to help develop your students critical thinking skills when it comes to politics and political science. As Patterson notes, “Political thinking takes place within the context of a person’s political interests and values, which can lead equally thoughtful individuals to reach opposing opinions on the same issue.” If you are looking for learning materials to help ensure your students leave your course among those “thoughtful individuals” that will carry the debate forward in measured and informed ways, The American Democracy is the right choice for you.

Preface xvii | Supplements Package xxi | Acknowledgments xxii

PART 1 Foundations

1. Political Thinking and Political Culture: Becoming a Responsible Citizen
2. Constitutional Democracy: Promoting Liberty and Self-Government
3. Federalism: Forging a Nation
4. Civil Liberties: Protecting Individual Rights
5. Equal Rights: Struggling toward Fairness
   

   PART 2 Mass Politics

6. Public Opinion and Political Socialization: Shaping the People’s Voice ... MORE
7. Political Participation: Activating the Popular Will
8. Political Parties, Candidates, and Campaigns: Defining the Voter’s Choice
9. Interest Groups: Organizing for Influence
10. The News Media: Communicating Political Images
    

    PART 3 Governing Institutions

11. Congress: Balancing National Goals and Local Interests
12. The Presidency: Leading the Nation
13. The Federal Bureaucracy: Administering the Government
14. The Federal Judicial System: Applying the Law
    

    PART 4 Public Policy

15. Economic and Environmental Policy: Contributing to Prosperity
16. Welfare and Education Policy: Providing for Personal Security and Need
17. Foreign Policy: Protecting the American Way
18. State and Local Politics: Maintaining Our Differences

Appendixes
Glossary
Notes 
Credits 
Index