Based on the best-selling, full-length textThe Challenge of Democracy,Eighth Edition, this brief version maintains the same framework and motifs in a shorter format. The pedagogy is linked to two main themes: the conflicting values of freedom, order, and equality, and the majoritarianism versus pluralism debate. In addition, a focus on globalization and its implications helps students put American government in a broader context. An extensive supplementary program that includes a text-specific web site, study guide, Internet Exercises, the Crosstabs software and IDEAlog. New!Complete coverage of current political events and issues includes the 2004 Presidential election, as well as the results of key races across the country; George W. Bush's presidency, updates on the War of Terrorism and 9/11, campaign finance reform, and the Internet as a vehicle for group media. New!Brief callouts in the text inform students of Talking Politics audio clips on the accompanying web site and the instructor and student CD-ROMs, which allow students to "hear" politics through speeches and interviews, adding dimension to the learning experience. Follow-up questions encourage students to think about what they hear and can be answered online and submitted to instructors via email. New!TheLooking to the Futurefeature invites students to consider trends in American government, such as declining voter turnout, or evaluate questions, such as whether federal government is shrinking or expanding, and then consider the implications of their answers. Can You Explain Why?marginal features ask students to use critical-thinking skills to try and explain a political paradox, such as why Americans engage in more forms of political participation than people of other nationalities, yet don't vote as much. The Politics in a Changing Worldfeature focuses on the effect of globalization on American government by comparing how U.S. politics affect the world and vice versa. These boxed highlights appear in every other chapter, alternating withLooking to the Future. Expanded discussion of the Electoral College helps to explain its functions in greater detail. Pedagogical features throughout the book enhance the learning experience: Crosstabs and IDEAlog marginal icons note where students can incorporate these supplements to demonstrate the practical applications of material. A marginal glossary highlights important terms. A four-color design provides a lively, engaging text.