Third edition published in 2016.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Machine generated contents note: 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.