California Government and Politics Today

by Field, Mona; Sohner, Charles P.

• ISBN13: 9780321079985
• ISBN10: 0321079981
• Edition: 9th
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2002-01-01
• Publisher: LONGMAN

Summary

This best-seller offers a unique approach to California government that blends political data with economic, cultural, and demographic trends, and analyzes the link between the economy and the political process. California Government and Politics Today, Ninth Edition, is written by a college professor who is also an elected official in California, offering a unique insider's view that will engage and inform students. This completely updated new edition encourages political activism and the development of the reader's own unique political views.

Table of Contents

Preface	ix
California Politics in Perspective	1	(7)
The Californians: Land, People, and Political Culture	8	(8)
California's Historical Development	16	(7)
Freedom and Equality: California's Delicate Balance	23	(8)
Media Influences and Pressure Groups	31	(7)
Political Parties and Other Voluntary Associations	38	(6)
Campaigns and Elections	44	(7)
The California Legislature	51	(8)
The California Executive	59	(9)
The California Courts	68	(7)
Criminal Justice and Civil Law	75	(7)
City Governments	82	(7)
Counties, Special Districts, and Regional Agencies	89	(6)
Financing the Golden State	95	(7)
Issues for the New Century	102	(8)
Appendix A Directory of Political Organizations That Anyone Can Join	110	(3)
Appendix B California State Elected/Appointed Officials	113	(16)
Appendix C Useful Websites	129	(2)
Appendix D Getting in Touch with Your Elected Officials: A Simple Guide	131