For freshman- and sophomore-level courses in American Government. This text presents a succinct and timely approach to the principles and practices of the American governmental system. Concentrating on the most significant issues necessary to understanding American government, this book is specifically structured to engage today's students through a concise, stimulating style that is free of ideological and political bias. In order to stay brief, while intellectually stimulating, each edition is revised thoroughly to focus on the current issues of greatest significance.