The second edition provides a very strong introduction to political institutions and includes a new chapter on public opinion. The entire book has been revised throughout, taking into account the dramatic changes that have emerged since the 2010 congressional elections, as well as incorporating the results of the 2012 presidential election. it also pays close attention to what is seen as the irreversible decline in America's global influence."--Pub. desc.

Updated in a new 2nd edition, Understanding American Politics and Government provides students with a substantive foundation on the fundamentals of our government while enlisting them to become more discerning consumers of political information, better decision-makers and more effective citizens. Using a journalistic, example-rich narrative, this unique text schools students in the building blocks of good social science by distinguishing between the concepts of "correlation" and "causation." *The Brief version of this text contains abbreviated coverage of all the major topic areas*

Understanding American Politics provides a unique introduction to the contemporary political landscape of the United States by using as its core organizing feature the idea of "American exceptionalism," a concept that is at least as old as Tocqueville's study of American democracy. The second edition of Understanding American Politics maintains the unique strengths of the first edition while offering improved coverage of political institutions. A single omnibus chapter on institutions has been reorganized and split into three separate chapters on Congress, the presidency, and the courts. A new chapter on public opinion has also been included, and the chapter on religion and politics has been completely rewritten with a deeper appreciation of religion's influential role. The book has been revised throughout, taking into account the dramatic changes that have emerged since the 2010 congressional elections and the 2012 presidential election. The text also pays close attention to what is seen as the irreversible decline in America's global influence. Visit www.utpamericanpolitics.com for additional resources.

ALERT: Before you purchase, check with your instructor or review your course syllabus to ensure that you select the correct ISBN. Several versions of Pearson's MyLab & Mastering products exist for each title, including customized versions for individual schools, and registrations are not transferable. In addition, you may need a CourseID, provided by your instructor, to register for and use Pearson's MyLab & Mastering products. Packages Access codes for Pearson's MyLab & Mastering products may not be included when purchasing or renting from companies other than Pearson; check with the seller before completing your purchase. Used or rental books If you rent or purchase a used book with an access code, the access code may have been redeemed previously and you may have to purchase a new access code. Access codes Access codes that are purchased from sellers other than Pearson carry a higher risk of being either the wrong ISBN or a previously redeemed code. Check with the seller prior to purchase. -- Updated in a new 2nd edition, Understanding American Politics and Government provides students with a substantive foundation on the fundamentals of our government while enlisting them to become more discerning consumers of political information, better decision-makers and more effective citizens. Using a journalistic, example-rich narrative, this unique text schools students in the building blocks of good social science by distinguishing between the concepts of “correlation” and “causation.” *The Brief version of this text contains abbreviated coverage of all the major topic areas*

Updated to reflect the current political landscape, this book is emphasizes and explores causal questions in American Politics. It helps readers apply critical thinking tools-tools pulled directly from a social scientist's playbook-to start answering those questions, see past today's headlines, and understand why things really happen in our political world. Containing chapters on political culture, media and politics, and interest groups, readers will come away from this book able to think and view their world critically. Readers will come away from the book not only excited by political questions, but with the means to explore possible answers as more thoughtful and empowered citizen The Texas version of Understanding American Politics and Governmentcontains the same information as the National version, plus 7 additional chapters on Texas state government and policy.

This edition features the exact same content as the traditional text in a convenient, three-hole- punched, loose-leaf version. Books à la Carte also offer a great value for your students–this format costs significantly less than a new textbook. Updated in a new 2nd edition, Understanding American Politics and Government provides students with a substantive foundation on the fundamentals of our government while enlisting them to become more discerning consumers of political information, better decision-makers and more effective citizens. Using a journalistic, example-rich narrative, this unique text schools students in the building blocks of good social science by distinguishing between the concepts of “correlation” and “causation.” *The Brief version of this text contains abbreviated coverage of all the major topic areas*

Updated in a new 2nd edition, Understanding American Politics and Government provides students with a substantive foundation on the fundamentals of our government while enlisting them to become more discerning consumers of political information, better decision-makers and more effective citizens. Using a journalistic, example-rich narrative, this unique text schools students in the building blocks of good social science by distinguishing between the concepts of “correlation” and “causation.” *The Alternate version of this text does not contain the policy chapters found in the National version*