Previous edition: 2006.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

1 Key issues in the study of politics -- 2 Liberal democracy -- 3 Political ideologies -- 4 Elections and electoral systems -- 5 Political parties and party systems -- 6 Pressure groups -- 7 Protest -- 8 The media and politics -- 9 Constitutions and human rights -- 10 The executive branch of government -- 11 The bureaucracy -- 12 The legislative branch of government -- 13 The judicial branch of government -- 14 Subnational government -- 15 The nation state in the modern world -- 16 Terrorism and political extremism -- Glossary -- Answers to fact-check questions - Index.

Politics is a complex subject, but it doesn't have to be difficult. This book, complete with exercises and answers, forms a course which will take you from beginner or intermediate level to having a firm grasp of the main topics in politics and government. This book includes: simple step-by-step explanations, to help you grasp new ideas or those that have previously confused you; test questions throughout, to help you embed your learning and improve your confidence; and case studies to deepen your understanding - all in one great-value book, so you don't need any separate textbooks. Chapters include: Key issues in politics; Political ideologies; Elections and electoral systems; Political parties and party systems; Pressure groups and protest; The media; Constitutions and human rights; The bureaucracy; Executive, legislative and judicial branches of government; The nation state; International terrorism and political extremism.