American Government: Political Development and Institutional Change

"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. New to the 11th Edition Covers the 2020 elections with up-to-press-time data on both Congress and the Presidency. Assesses the impact of "fake news" in various forums and through various lenses--including news consumer biases, the prejudices and screens citizens bring to their consumption of news, and the purposeful manipulation of the news, whether by foreign actors like the Russians or domestic actors who use similar tactics to disrupt domestic political campaigns. Explores the impacts of COVID-19 and the Black Lives Matter Protests have on both government and constituents' responses to their government. Traces the course and impact of the Trump impeachment process including a new discussion of the 25th Amendment. Asks how our constitutional system of limited government, separation of powers, checks and balances, and the rule of law are holding up under the stresses of the Trump administration-including ongoing instability in the cabinet and administration, the unprecedented exercise of executive privilege and "absolute rights," the politicization of the federal court system, and the threat of "America First" policies to national and international security. Features 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"--