A fascinating, provocative read, UNDERSTANDING AMERICAN GOVERNMENT, International Edition gives you an inside look at the American political system and how the government works. You'll read about 2008 election controversies, ethical choices, diversity issues, and moreuall important information that you will need throughout your life as an involved voter and citizen.

Table of Contents

Part I: THE AMERICAN SYSTEM. 1. The American People. 2. The Constitution. 3. Federalism. Part II: LINKS BETWEEN PEOPLE AND GOVERNMENT. 4. Public Opinion. 5. News Media. 6. Interest Groups. 7. Political Parties. 8. Elections. 9. Money and Politics. Part III: INSTITUTIONS. 10. Congress. 11. The Presidency. 12. The Bureaucracy. 13. The Judiciary. Part IV: CIVIL LIBERTIES AND RIGHTS. 14. Civil Liberties. 15. Civil Rights. Part V: PUBLIC POLICIES. 16. Economic Policy. 17. Social Welfare and Health Policy. 18. Foreign Policy. Notes. Appendix A: The Declaration of Independence. Appendix B: The Constitution of the United States of America. Appendix C: Federalist Paper 10. Appendix D: Federalist Paper 51. Glossary. Index.