Key Features

• Written with a bottom-up or "individual-up" view of the American political system
• Presents overall legal framework of the American political system, followed by the fundamental elements of the Constitution
• Chapters on political parties, interest groups, and the media illuminate how these institutions connect citizens and their representatives, making civic participation more cost effective
• Chapters on domestic and foreign policy to provide insights into how the government accomplishes its goals at home and abroad
• Useful learning structure includes end-of-chapter features that review main points, encourage critical reflection, and challenge readers to imagine how the American political system could become more democratic
• “What Can I Do” features suggest practical ways in which students can make a difference in their communities or influence the political system
• “What’s the Alternative” features provide thought-provoking insights into how our political system might be differently structured to become more democratic