American Government

How politics in America works today, how it got that way, and how it's likely to change through reform--these are the themes that pervade every chapter of Cal Jillson's highly lauded American Government: Political Development and Institutional Change. Even in the midst of current challenges, America's past is present in all aspects of the contemporary political system. Jillson uses political development and the dynamics of change as a thematic tool to help students understand how politics works now--and how institutions, participation, and policies have evolved over time to produce the contemporary political environment. In addition, Jillson helps students think critically about how American democracy might evolve further, focusing in every chapter on reform and further change.

In a streamlined presentation, Jillson delivers a concise and engaging narrative to help students understand the complexities and importance of American politics. Along the way, several pedagogical features foster critical thinking and analysis:

• Key learning objectives at the beginning of every chapter focus students on the central learning objectives.
• "The Constitution Today" chapter opening vignettes illustrate the importance of conflicting views on constitutional principles.
• Key terms are defined in the margins on the page where they appear help students study important concepts.
• Colorful figures and charts help students visualize important information.
• "Let's Compare" boxes analyze how functions of government and political participation work in other countries--now framed by new critical thinking questions.
• Reformatted "Pro & Con" boxes bring to life a central debate in each chapter and highlight competing perspectives; new discussion questions in each box prompt students to weigh the different arguments and weigh in.
• End-of-chapter summaries, suggested readings, and web resources help students master the material and guide them to further critical investigation of important concepts and topics.