Updated in a new 2nd edition, Understanding American Politics and Government provides students with a substantive foundation on the fundamentals of our government while enlisting them to become more discerning consumers of political information, better decision-makers and more effective citizens. Using a journalistic, example-rich narrative, this unique text schools students in the building blocks of good social science by distinguishing between the concepts of "correlation" and "causation." *The Brief version of this text contains abbreviated coverage of all the major topic areas*

Updated to reflect the current political landscape, this book is emphasizes and explores causal questions in American Politics. It helps readers apply critical thinking tools-tools pulled directly from a social scientist's playbook-to start answering those questions, see past today's headlines, and understand why things really happen in our political world. Containing chapters on political culture, media and politics, and interest groups, readers will come away from this book able to think and view their world critically. Readers will come away from the book not only excited by political questions, but with the means to explore possible answers as more thoughtful and empowered citizen The Texas version of Understanding American Politics and Governmentcontains the same information as the National version, plus 7 additional chapters on Texas state government and policy.

Updated in a new 2nd edition, this book is emphasizes and explores causal questions in American Politics. It helps readers apply critical thinking tools–tools pulled directly from a social scientist’s playbook–to start answering those questions, see past today’s headlines, and understand why things really happen in our political world. Containing chapters on political culture, media and politics, and interest groups, readers will come away from this book able to think and view their world critically. Readers will come away from the book not only excited by political questions, but with the means to explore possible answers as more thoughtful and empowered citizens

The second edition provides a very strong introduction to political institutions and includes a new chapter on public opinion. The entire book has been revised throughout, taking into account the dramatic changes that have emerged since the 2010 congressional elections, as well as incorporating the results of the 2012 presidential election. it also pays close attention to what is seen as the irreversible decline in America's global influence."--Pub. desc.

Updated in a new 2nd edition, Understanding American Politics and Government provides students with a substantive foundation on the fundamentals of our government while enlisting them to become more discerning consumers of political information, better decision-makers and more effective citizens. Using a journalistic, example-rich narrative, this unique text schools students in the building blocks of good social science by distinguishing between the concepts of “correlation” and “causation.” *The Alternate version of this text does not contain the policy chapters found in the National version*

Understanding American Politics provides a unique introduction to the contemporary political landscape of the United States by using as its core organizing feature the idea of "American exceptionalism," a concept that is at least as old as Tocqueville's study of American democracy. The second edition of Understanding American Politics maintains the unique strengths of the first edition while offering improved coverage of political institutions. A single omnibus chapter on institutions has been reorganized and split into three separate chapters on Congress, the presidency, and the courts. A new chapter on public opinion has also been included, and the chapter on religion and politics has been completely rewritten with a deeper appreciation of religion's influential role. The book has been revised throughout, taking into account the dramatic changes that have emerged since the 2010 congressional elections and the 2012 presidential election. The text also pays close attention to what is seen as the irreversible decline in America's global influence. Visit www.utpamericanpolitics.com for additional resources.

Solve real-world puzzles like a political scientist This version of Understanding American Politics and Government, 2012 Election Edition includes all thirteen chapters from Gibson/Robison's Government and Politics in the Lone Star State, 8/e at a lower price point than the two books packaged together. It is available only through the Pearson Custom Library (PCL). To order, click here http://www.pearsoncustomlibrary.com/?lib=40&act=listbooks#book:344. PCL allows customers to create customized textbooks, giving students a more engaging and affordable education. Customers also have the option of purchasing the full text without customization in the Pearson Custom Library. For more information about customization opportunities, refer to www.pearsoncustomlibrary.com. Because this program is print-on-demand, printing will not start until we receive a purchase order from your bookstore. Please place your book order with the bookstore as soon as possible to ensure timely delivery. Please allow 2-4 weeks for your book to print. Additional time is required for outside content and/or packaging with other components.