Presenting an interpretative essay on the British political system, this very short introduction identifies key characteristics and shaping ideas of the British tradition, and investigates what makes British politics distinctive. It also emphasizes on how these characteristics are reflected in the way the political system actually functions.

Tony Wright's Very Short Introduction to British Politics is an interpretative essay on the British political system, rather than merely an abbreviated textbook on how it currently works. He identifies key characteristics and ideas of the British tradition, and investigates what makes British politics distinctive, while emphasizing throughout the book how these characteristics are reflected in the way the political system actually functions. Each chapter is organized around a key theme, such as the constitution or political accountability, which is first established and then explored with examples and illustrations. This in turn provides a perspective for a discussion of how the system is changing, looking in particular at devolution and Britain's place in Europe.

1. The Britishness of British Politics
2. The Political Constitution
3. Ideology--and After
4. Governing: The Strong Centre
5. Representing: Party Rules OK
6. Accounting: Heckling the Steamroller
7. New Wine, Old Bottles
8. The End of British Politics?