The Logic of American Politics

by Samuel Kernell; Gary C. Jacobson

• ISBN13: 9781568023953
• ISBN10: 1568023952
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1999-09-01
• Publisher: CQ

Summary

For all their complexity, there is a logic and rationale embedded in American institutions and political processes. The Logic of American Politics is a refreshingly accessible and engaging book that explores this underlying logic and leads readers toward a more nuanced and sophisticated understanding of American government.

The Logic of American Politics poses many provocative questions that encourage readers to think critically and actively about our system of government. For example, why do so many citizens fail to exercise their cherished right to vote? Or, why don't we do more to stop pollution from cars, since we all agree on what causes it and how harmful it is?

The Logic of American Politics covers all the important topics from constitutional development to governmental institutions to political processes. The book is written as a narrative but is designed for easy reference. The text is supplemented by abundant illustrations throughout: tables, figures, maps, cartoons, and photos.

Author Biography

Gary C. Jacobson is Professor of Political Science at the University of California, San Diego.

Table of Contents

Boxed Features	xv
Figures and Tables	xvii
Preface	xxi
A Note to Students	xxv
The Logic of American Politics	2	(22)
Part I THE NATIONALIZATION OF POLITICS
The Constitution	24	(34)
Federalism	58	(30)
Civil Rights	88	(36)
Civil Liberties	124	(36)
Part II THE INSTITUTIONS OF GOVERNMENT
Congress	160	(48)
The Presidency	208	(38)
The Bureaucracy	246	(38)
The Federal Judiciary	284	(32)
Part III THE PUBLIC'S INFLUENCE ON NATIONAL POLICY
Public Opinion	316	(32)
Voting, Campaigns, and Elections	348	(34)
Political Parties	382	(38)
Interest Groups	420	(32)
The News Media	452	(32)
Part IV CONCLUSION
The Dilemmas of Institutional Reform	484	(47)
APPENDIXES
Declaration of Independence	497	(3)
Constitution of the United States	500	(10)
Federalist No.10	510	(4)
Federalist No.51	514	(3)
Presidents, Vice Presidents, Speakers, and Chief Justices, 1789-1999	517	(3)
Map of Congressional Districts	520	(2)
Political Party Affiliations in Congress and the Presidency, 1789-1999	522	(3)
Summary of Presidential Elections, 1789-1996	525	(4)
The American Economy	529	(2)
Notes	531	(16)
Glossary	547	(8)
Index	555	(17)
Photo Credits	572	(2)
About the Authors	574