Foundations of comparative politics : democracies of the modern world / Kenneth Newton and Jan W. van Deth.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction -- Part I. The State: Origins and Development -- 1. The development of the modern state -- 2. States and democracy -- 3. Democratic change and persistence -- Part II. The Polity: Structures and Institutions -- 4. Constitutions -- 5. Presidential and parliamentary government -- 6. Multi-level government: international, national and sub-national -- 7. Policy making and legislating: executives and legislatures -- 8. Implementation: the public bureaucracy -- Part III. Citizens, Elites and Interest Mediation -- 9. Political attitudes and behaviour -- 10. Pressure groups and social movements -- 11. The mass media -- 12. Voters and elections -- 13. Party government -- Part IV. Policies and Performance -- 14. Political ideologies: conservatism, liberalism, Christian democracy and socialism -- 15. Decision making -- 16. Public spending and public policies -- 17. The future of the democratic state -- Postscript: how and what to compare?.

"The new edition of this leading overview of comparative politics once again blends theory and evidence across democratic systems to provide unparalleled coverage. The student-friendly structure and clear, concise writing ensure that complex issues are clearly explained and students engage with the key theories. The third edition is updated throughout, with a new chapter, 'Public Spending and Public Policies', increased coverage of defective democracies, and revised coverage of e-democracy and the power of the media. The pedagogy is simplified with a focus on briefings that feature examples and controversies from across the globe, alongside clear key terms, 'What We Have Learned' and 'Lessons of Comparison' sections, and a wealth of online materials to complete a rich teaching and learning package"-- Provided by publisher.