This student-friendly introduction to the key theories and concepts of comparative politics now provides even broader coverage of the world's democracies, with examples drawn from across the globe. Foundations of Comparative Politics contains a wealth of information, clearly structured and easy to read, with clear definition of Key Terms. It covers all the important themes in the field, including constitutional design and institutions; mass and elite politics; policy-making and implementation; and the future of the state and democracy in a globalising world. A new chapter on studying comparative politics, and new 'What Have We Learned?' and 'Lessons of Comparison' summary sections help students pull together the lessons of each chapter. Combining facts and theory throughout, debate is stimulated through the use of Controversy boxes, and Fact Files and Briefings give students interesting data that illustrates the key issues in the text. Online resources, including MCQs and Powerpoint slides, complete the package.

‘Thanks to new chapters on the purpose and method of making comparisons plus a separate chapter on democratization, this revised edition is even more comprehensive than the last.’

Matthijs Bogaards - Jacobs University Bremen

‘… both intelligent and accessible … this book has the virtue of compelling students to think through basic choices confronting mature Western democracies in the 21st century. The authors make big ideas accessible by introducing the student to diverse briefings, controversies, and fact files that whet the appetite for active debate. In short, the book is a gem which will make teaching more fun for teachers and more meaningful for students.’

Liesbet Hooghe - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

‘… an ideal textbook for the 21st century, in which democracy may remain the dominant paradigm but in which the world's democracies face many grave challenges to their well-being and even survival.’

Arend Lijphart - University of California, San Diego