Introduction to Comparative Politics provides students with carefully selected readings that familiarize them with substantive issues and the methodological tools found within comparative politics, a major subfield of political science. The readings introduce students to philosophical and methodological traditions used to explain political phenomena, as well as standard analyses of power, authority, democracy, and authoritarianism. Students learn how analytical methods can provide insight into diverging patterns of domination and conflict within and between states. Additional readings explore various sources of the growing conflict and disorder within and between states and major challenges to the future of states and their citizens. Each chapter includes post-reading questions to stimulate critical thought, reflection, and lively discussion. Introduction to Comparative Politics provides students with a sampling of key themes and methods used to uncover important insights regarding political issues. The text is ideal for courses and programs in political science.

Presents in nontechnical language the case for basic research as an activity indispensable to the nation.

First Published in 2004. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

This book provides information on workplace volunteering and how employee volunteering programs operate in specific corporate cultures. Chapter 1 focuses on the rationale upon which corporate volunteer programs are constructed. The rationale's four basic components are discussed in detail: quality of life, worker participation, responding to others' expectations, and displaying moral leadership. Chapter 2 describes and assesses the basic promotional strategies used by many companies as well as the overall results of a national survey on employee volunteering. In chapter 3, five basic types of formalized workplace volunteer programs are discussed: clearinghouses, group projects, loaned personnel programs, teams, and retiree programs. Chapter 4 describes various ways in which companies work with each other, with voluntary organizations, and with public agencies to promote volunteering. Chapter 5 addresses union member volunteering, organized labor's best kept secret. Small business volunteer programs are the focus of chapter 6. Each chapter provides general information on its title subject followed by profiles of companies who operate the type of employee volunteering program under discussion. Two to six profiles are included in each chapter. (YLB)