1st Edition
American Politics Promise and Peril
Introduction: Thematic Focus and Objectives
1: The Constitution: Can the Constitution Prevent Tyranny?
2: Political Culture: Does America Bend toward Justice?
3: Federalism: Is Federalism a Force for Justice – or Injustice?
4: Civil Rights: Do We Need More Civil Rights Laws Today?
5: Civil Liberties: Do Our Civil Liberties Go too Far?
6: Political Parties: Why are Parties so Polarized? Is Polarization ever Good?
7: Interest Groups: Do Lobbyists Favor the Wealthy?
8: Political Opinion: What Role does Public Opinion Play in American Democracy?
9: Elections: Do Political Campaigns and Elections Matter? Are They Fair?
10: Congress: Can Congress Get Anything Done?
11: The Presidency: Is the President too Powerful — or Not Powerful Enough?
12: The Media: Is the Media a Check against Tyranny?
13: The Courts: Is the Supreme Court Too Political?
14: The Bureaucracy: Is the Bureaucracy Filled with Neutral Experts or Is It a Liberal Deep State?
15: Public Policymaking: What factors Contribute to a Successful Public Policymaking Process?
Biography
Daniel Hofrenning is Professor of Political Science and Environmental Studies at St Olaf College, USA.
Stefanie Chambers is the Inaugural John R. Reitemeyer Term Professor of Political Science at Trinity College, USA.
"This concise American government text tells a compelling story about how politics and participation – in both formal and informal channels – can be a positive and productive way to solve problems and achieve greater justice. This book will help young people see more clearly the possibilities afforded by our democratic system and prepare them for their role as citizens and future leaders."
- Laurel Elder, Professor of Political Science at Hartwick College and Co-Director of the Hartwick College Institute of Public Service, U.S.A.
"American Politics: Promise and Peril introduces students to scholarly literature and encourages them to think like researchers by discussing unsettled questions. Written by two liberal arts college professors, this text provides explanations, examples, and guiding questions grounded in more than 50 years of questions from inquisitive students."
- Richard Keiser, Emeritus Professor of Political Science, Carleton College, U.S.A.
