TEXAS POLITICS is a comprehensive text that explicitly and critically compares the reality of Texas government and politics to democratic theory through the exploration of three main themes: democratic ideals, conservatism, and conflict. Boxed features in every chapter bring the text to life by providing human examples of abstract principles, including a "You Decide" box where you can consider the pros and cons of important issues. The text's lively presentation of material engages you in controversial issues and encourages classroom debate. The authors' conversational writing style and use of humor make the text a pleasure to read. The new tenth edition offers an appealing full-color design and includes numerous new photos, cartoons, tables, and figures.