Politics and Policy in American States and Communities

by Dresang, Dennis L.; Gosling, James J.

• ISBN13: 9780205533732
• ISBN10: 0205533736
• Edition: 6th
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2010-05-06
• Publisher: Allyn & Bacon

Summary

This text distinguishes itself through its highly accessible writing style, brevity, inclusion of unique topics such as tribal governments, extensive discussion of intergovernmental relations, and its focus on the relationship between government and the governed--how individuals are affected by government decisions and how individuals influence public policy. As the authors have done in previous editions, their "face-to-face" approach to the study of state and local governments personalizes the material, connects government to students'lives, and makes the material more meaningful and relevant to the student.

Table of Contents

Preface

Introduction

Face to Face Governance

Laying the Foundation

State Diversity, Growth and Decline, and the Contemporary Urban Dilemma

Federalism and Intergovernmental Relations

Constitutions and Charters

Policymaking Processes

Public Participation

Grassroots Participation

Interest Groups

Political Parties and Elections

The Institution of State and Local Governments

Governors

State Legislatures

Local Government Executives and Legislatures

Bureaucracies

Courts

Public Policies

Crime and Corrections

Educational Policy

Social Welfare and Health Policy

Environmental Policy and Economic Development

Fiscal Policy and Financial Management

Conclusion

Responding to Pressing Public Problems Career Guide Supplement

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