Comparative Politics provides a comprehensive and sophisticated introduction to political systems around the world. It covers methods and theories; the nation-state; institutions; actors and processes; policies; and recent changes.

This major new textbook introduces students to one of the most important fields of political science. Written by key international experts, Comparative Politics includes a wide range of countries, and covers methods and theories; the nation-state and its insitutions; actors and processes; and policies. It also deals with recent changes such as globalisation and democratisation in Africa and the Middle East. The chapters are enhanced by innovative learning features, and a cutting-edge Online Resource Centre accompanies the text. Online Resource Centre Student resources: Interactive map with country profiles for a wide range of countries Review questions, exercises and test bank Extra figures, tables, maps and documentation Glossary with comprehensive A-Z dictionary of key terms in comparative politics Instructor resources: PowerPoint slides Essay and exam questions Multiple choice questions Figures and tables from the book Resources for research Comparative data in different formats for around 200 countries and 200 indicators Web directory of statistical, institutional and information resources

Introduction
SECTION I: THEORIES AND METHODS
1. The evolution of comparative politics
2. Approaches in comparative politics
3. Comparative research methods
SECTION II: THE HISTORICAL CONTEXT
4. The nation-state
5. Democracies
6. Authoritarian regimes
SECTION III: STRUCTURES AND INSTITUTIONS
7. Parliaments
8. Governments and bureacracies
9. Constitutions and courts
10. Elections and referendums
11. Unitary, federal, and local government institutions
SECTION IV: ACTORS AND PROCESSES
12. Political parties
13. Party systems
14. Interest groups
15. Regions
16. Social movements
17. Political culture
18. Political behaviour
19. Political communication
SECTION V: PUBLIC POLICIES
20. Policy making
21. The welfare state
22. The impact of public policies
SECTION VI: CURRENT ISSUES
23. The EU as a new political system
24. Globalization and the nation-state
25. Promoting democracy
Conclusion: Democractic quality