Finding the Perfect "Government in America" Textbook: A Comprehensive Guide
Navigating the world of American government can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with the daunting task of choosing the right textbook. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you find the perfect "Government in America" textbook, whether you're a high school student, college undergraduate, or simply a curious citizen wanting to deepen your understanding of American governance. We'll delve into key factors to consider when selecting a textbook, explore popular choices, and offer tips to maximize your learning experience.
Understanding Your Needs: Choosing the Right "Government in America" Textbook
Before diving into specific titles, it's crucial to assess your individual needs. Consider these factors:
1. Educational Level:
High School: High school textbooks focus on fundamental concepts, often employing simpler language and incorporating visual aids. They emphasize key historical events and foundational principles.
College (Undergraduate): College-level texts delve deeper into theoretical frameworks, political ideologies, and contemporary issues. They often incorporate more complex analyses and expect a higher level of critical thinking.
Graduate Level: Graduate-level texts are highly specialized, focusing on specific areas like constitutional law, public policy, or comparative politics. These texts assume a high level of prior knowledge.
2. Course Requirements:
Always check your syllabus! Your instructor may specify a required textbook or recommend certain titles. Failing to use the assigned text can significantly hinder your academic performance.
3. Learning Style:
Consider your preferred learning style. Do you learn best from visual aids, detailed explanations, or real-world examples? Some textbooks incorporate more case studies, while others prioritize concise summaries.
4. Budget:
Textbooks can be expensive. Explore options like used bookstores, online rentals, or purchasing older editions (ensure they cover the relevant material).
Top "Government in America" Textbook Options
While numerous excellent textbooks on American government exist, some consistently receive high praise:
1. Government in America: People, Politics, and Policy (Wilson & DiIulio):
This widely used textbook offers a comprehensive overview of the American political system, balancing historical context with contemporary issues. Its clear writing style and engaging examples make it accessible to a broad audience.
2. American Government: Institutions and Policies (O'Connor & Sabato):
Known for its in-depth analysis of political institutions and policies, this textbook provides a strong foundation for understanding the intricacies of the American government.
3. We the People: An Introduction to American Politics (Schattsneider):
This classic text offers a more concise yet insightful approach to American government, emphasizing the role of citizens in the political process.
4. American Government: Continuity and Change (Edwards & Wattenberg):
This textbook emphasizes the dynamic nature of American government, highlighting both its historical foundations and its ongoing evolution. It often incorporates contemporary case studies to illustrate key concepts.
Choosing Beyond the Big Names:
Don't limit yourself to the most popular choices. Explore reviews and table of contents to find a textbook that aligns with your specific learning needs and interests.
Maximizing Your Textbook Experience
Once you've chosen your textbook, employ these strategies to maximize its effectiveness:
Read Actively: Annotate the text, take notes, and summarize key concepts.
Utilize Supporting Materials: Many textbooks offer online resources, such as study guides, quizzes, and interactive exercises.
Engage in Discussions: Participate in class discussions and study groups to solidify your understanding.
Connect to Current Events: Relate the concepts you're learning to current political events and news stories.
Conclusion
Selecting the right "Government in America" textbook is a critical step in understanding this complex subject. By carefully considering your needs, exploring different options, and actively engaging with the material, you can effectively learn and master the intricacies of American government. Remember that the best textbook is the one that best suits your individual learning style and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use an older edition of a "Government in America" textbook? Often, yes, but check the syllabus and compare the table of contents to ensure it covers the necessary material. Significant political changes might render some older editions outdated.
2. Are there online versions of "Government in America" textbooks? Yes, many publishers offer digital versions, often with added multimedia content.
3. What resources are available to help me understand difficult concepts in the textbook? Consider consulting your professor, attending office hours, joining a study group, or utilizing online resources such as Khan Academy or Crash Course Government and Politics.
4. How can I make the textbook material more engaging? Try connecting the material to current events, watching relevant documentaries, or researching case studies related to the concepts discussed.
5. Where can I find affordable "Government in America" textbooks? Explore used bookstores, online marketplaces (like Amazon or eBay), or consider renting the textbook instead of buying it. Your college bookstore might also offer used or rental options.
government in america textbook: Government in America George C. Edwards III, Martin P. Wattenberg, William G. Howell, 2017-05-19 This is the eBook of the printed book and may not include any media, website access codes, or print supplements that may come packaged with the bound book. Learn how American politics affect public policy Government in America : People, Politics and Policy - 2016 Presidential Election(Subscription), 17/e, explores our government’s impact on the daily lives of Americans by focusing on public policy. Authors George Edwards and Martin Wattenberg provide a framework for students to understand the difficult questions that decision makers of both political parties are facing: How should we govern? And, what should government do? In order to boost student engagement with key concepts, the 2016 Elections incorporates coverage of contemporary issues that dominate today’s headlines, as well as the most up-to-date data.
government in america textbook: American Government and Politics in the Information Age , 2011 Our text is a comprehensive introduction to the vital subject of American government and politics. Governments decide who gets what, when, how (See Harold D. Lasswell, Politics: Who Gets What, When, How, [New York: McGraw-Hill, 1936]); they make policies and pass laws that are binding on all a society?s members; they decide about taxation and spending, benefits and costs, even life and death. Governments possess power?the ability to gain compliance and to get people under their jurisdiction to obey them?and they may exercise their power by using the police and military to enforce their decisions. However, power need not involve the exercise of force or compulsion; people often obey because they think it is in their interest to do so, they have no reason to disobey or they fear punishment. Above all, people obey their government because it has authority; its power is seen by people as rightfully held, as legitimate. People can grant their government legitimacy because they have been socialized to do so; because there are processes, such as elections, that enable them to choose and change their rulers; and because they believe that their governing institutions operate justly. Politics is the process by which leaders are selected and policy decisions are made and executed. It involves people and groups, both inside and outside of government, engaged in deliberation and debate, disagreement and conflict, cooperation and consensus and power struggles. In covering American government and politics, our text introduces the intricacies of the Constitution, the complexities of federalism, the meanings of civil liberties and the conflicts over civil rights; explains how people are socialized to politics, acquire and express opinions and participate in political life; describes interest groups, political parties and elections?the intermediaries that link people to government and politics; details the branches of government and how they operate; and shows how policies are made and affect people?s lives. This textbook has been used in classes at: Metropolitan College of New York, University of Central Oklahoma, Bucks County Community College, University of South Carolina? Beaufort, Delaware County Community College, Collin College? Spring Creek, Austin Community College? Northridge, Randolph College, Columbia Gorge Community College, Central Christian College, Thomas More College, Orange Coast College, San Bernardina Valley College, Southwestern College? Chula Vista, De Anza College, Shasta College, Jacksonville University, Northeastern University, University of Baltimore, Southern New Hampshire University, Seattle Central Community College, Edmonds Community College, Minneapolis Community and Technical College, Brazosport College, Sul Ross State University, Odessa College, California State University? Monterey Bay, University of Texas? Arlington, Chabot College, Portland Community College? Cascade, Athens High School, Dalat International School, Paradise Education Center, St. Teresa's Academy, South Broward High School, Academy of the Sacred Heart, St. Ignatius College Preparatory, Henrico County Public Schools, Blue Ridge High School, Newell High School, Southern New Hampshire University, American University in Bulgaria, Miami Springs Senior High School, Seattle Central Community College, Milaca High School, Rock Canyan High School, Media Arts Collaborative Charter School, Susan E. Wagner High School, St. Monica's University, Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory.
government in america textbook: American Government 3e Glen Krutz, Sylvie Waskiewicz, 2023-05-12 Black & white print. American Government 3e aligns with the topics and objectives of many government courses. Faculty involved in the project have endeavored to make government workings, issues, debates, and impacts meaningful and memorable to students while maintaining the conceptual coverage and rigor inherent in the subject. With this objective in mind, the content of this textbook has been developed and arranged to provide a logical progression from the fundamental principles of institutional design at the founding, to avenues of political participation, to thorough coverage of the political structures that constitute American government. The book builds upon what students have already learned and emphasizes connections between topics as well as between theory and applications. The goal of each section is to enable students not just to recognize concepts, but to work with them in ways that will be useful in later courses, future careers, and as engaged citizens. In order to help students understand the ways that government, society, and individuals interconnect, the revision includes more examples and details regarding the lived experiences of diverse groups and communities within the United States. The authors and reviewers sought to strike a balance between confronting the negative and harmful elements of American government, history, and current events, while demonstrating progress in overcoming them. In doing so, the approach seeks to provide instructors with ample opportunities to open discussions, extend and update concepts, and drive deeper engagement.
government in america textbook: American Government 2e Glen S. Krutz, 2019 American Government 2e is designed to meet the scope and sequence requirements of the single-semester American Government course. This title includes innovative features designed to enhance student learning, including Insider Perspective features and a Get Connected module that shows students how they can get engaged in the political process. The book provides an important opportunity for students to learn the core concepts of American Government and understand how those concepts apply to their lives and the world around them.
government in america textbook: Government and the American Economy Price V. Fishback, 2008-09-15 The American economy has provided a level of well-being that has consistently ranked at or near the top of the international ladder. A key source of this success has been widespread participation in political and economic processes. In The Government and the American Economy, leading economic historians chronicle the significance of America’s open-access society and the roles played by government in its unrivaled success story. America’s democratic experiment, the authors show, allowed individuals and interest groups to shape the structure and policies of government, which, in turn, have fostered economic success and innovation by emphasizing private property rights, the rule of law, and protections of individual freedom. In response to new demands for infrastructure, America’s federal structure hastened development by promoting the primacy of states, cities, and national governments. More recently, the economic reach of American government expanded dramatically as the populace accepted stronger limits on its economic freedoms in exchange for the increased security provided by regulation, an expanded welfare state, and a stronger national defense.
government in america textbook: The Basics of American Government Carl Cavalli, 2021-09-28 Newly revised, The Basics of American Government offers a comprehensive overview of the American political system for students taking introductory courses in American national government and combines the best aspects of both a traditional textbook and a reader. The Basics of American Government is a collaborative effort among six current and three former faculty members in the Department of Political Science & International Affairs and the Department of Criminal Justice, and a student contributor, at the University of North Georgia. Most of its chapters offer a piece of original scholarship as a case study bolstering the material in the chapter. Additionally, most chapters present a civic engagement-type exercise and discussion questions that are challenging and engaging, and help foster student participation in the political system. The purpose of this book is to offer a no-frills, low-cost, yet comprehensive overview of the American political system for students taking introductory courses in American national government.The authors undertook this project for several reasons, most notably the high costs of textbooks for students and the lack of college-level scholarship found in most American Government texts. This 470-page, peer-reviewed, edited book that combines traditional material with original scholarship will cost students $27.99, well below market standards. All of the authors are experienced classroom instructors, subject matter experts, and published researchers in the field of American politics.
government in america textbook: American Government, Second Edition Timothy O. Lenz, Mirya Holman, 2018 This exciting new book explores the role of government, politics, and policy in American lives. Full of real life applications and scenarios, this text encourages and enables political thinking. The second edition has been updated to include recent developments in U.S. politics and government. This includes the description and analysis of the 2016 elections as well as the early Trump administration. Chapters have expanded coverage of immigration policy, environmental policy, economic policy, and global affairs (including counterterrorism policy). The text also includes analysis of racial issues in contemporary American politics and law. It also addresses questions about the state of the economy, jobs, and wages.Hyperlinks and URLs provide ?deeper dives? into various topics and examples of comparative politics.
government in america textbook: American Government: Stories of a Nation Scott Abernathy, Karen Waples, 2018-12-10 This new offering from AP® teacher Karen Waples and college professor Scott Abernathy is tailor-made to help teachers and students transition to the redesigned AP® U. S. Government and Politics course. Carefully aligned to the course framework, this brief book is loaded with instructional tools to help you and your students meet the demands of the new course, such as integrated skills instruction, coverage of required cases and documents, public policy threaded throughout the book, and AP® practice after every chapter and unit, all in a simple organization that will ease your course planning and save you time. We’ve got you covered! With a program specifically tailored for the new AP® framework and exam. With a brief student edition that students will read and enjoy. With pedagogy and features that prepare students for the AP® exam like no other book on the market. With a teacher edition and resources that save you time in transitioning to the new course. With professional development to help you transition your instruction.
government in america textbook: Federalism and the Making of America David Brian Robertson, 2013-03-01 Though Americans rarely appreciate it, federalism has profoundly shaped their nation’s past, present, and future. Federalism—the division of government authority between the national government and the states—affects the prosperity, security, and daily life of every American. In this nuanced and comprehensive overview, David Brian Robertson shows that past choices shape present circumstances, and that a deep understanding of American government, public policy, political processes, and society requires an understanding of the key steps in federalism’s evolution in American history. The most spectacular political conflicts in American history have been fought on the battlefield of federalism, including states’ rights to leave the union, government power to regulate business, and responses to the problems of race, poverty, pollution, abortion, and gay rights. Federalism helped fragment American politics, encourage innovation, foster the American market economy, and place hurdles in the way of efforts to mitigate the consequences of economic change. Federalism helped construct the path of American political development. Federalism and the Making of America is a sorely needed text that treats the politics of federalism systematically and accessibly, making it indispensible to all students and scholars of American politics. Chosen as one of Choice's Outstanding Academic Titles for 2012.
government in america textbook: You and the U.S. Government Jennifer Overend Prior, 2013-09-30 This informative book teaches early readers about the important impact the government has on our lives. Readers will learn about taxes, the three branches of government, voting, and more through bright images and supportive text. A table of contents, glossary, and index are included to aid in helping readers better understand the content.
government in america textbook: America's State Governments Jennifer Bachner, Benjamin Ginsberg, 2020-07-23 This timely and important new work takes a critical look at government in the American states and illustrates the disconnect between state government institutions and their constituents. The text illuminates three basic political problems of state governments: weak constitutional and institutional foundations; a lack of civic engagement; and long histories of unchecked public corruption. In addition, the book explains why some states did and others did not respond promptly to the COVID-19 pandemic and examines America's long-standing problem of police and prosecutorial misconduct–providing a context for understanding the demonstrations and protests that rocked American cities in the summer of 2020. For students and citizens of state politics, the book concludes with a proposal aimed at civic literacy and action
government in america textbook: In Search of the Republic Richard Vetterli, Gary C. Bryner, 1996 When In Search of the Republic was originally published in 1987, scholarly interpretations of the concept of virtue in the American founding were considered peripheral to mainstream political theory. Since then, the authors' arguments that public virtue, civic responsibility, and private morality were at the heart of the Founding Fathers' political thought is now accepted by a growing number of contemporary political theorists. This revised edition includes a new preface that places In Search of the Republic within the context of contemporary debates over the role of virtue and religion in early American political discourse. This is a superb introduction for students and scholars interested in learning about the moral, political, and constitutional theories of the Founding Fathers.
government in america textbook: Study Guide, AP* Edition for Wilson/DiIulio/Bose's American Government, AP* Edition, 12th James Q. Wilson, John J. Dilulio, Meena Bose, 2010-03-05
government in america textbook: The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America Richard Rothstein, 2017-05-02 New York Times Bestseller • Notable Book of the Year • Editors' Choice Selection One of Bill Gates’ “Amazing Books” of the Year One of Publishers Weekly’s 10 Best Books of the Year Longlisted for the National Book Award for Nonfiction An NPR Best Book of the Year Winner of the Hillman Prize for Nonfiction Gold Winner • California Book Award (Nonfiction) Finalist • Los Angeles Times Book Prize (History) Finalist • Brooklyn Public Library Literary Prize This “powerful and disturbing history” exposes how American governments deliberately imposed racial segregation on metropolitan areas nationwide (New York Times Book Review). Widely heralded as a “masterful” (Washington Post) and “essential” (Slate) history of the modern American metropolis, Richard Rothstein’s The Color of Law offers “the most forceful argument ever published on how federal, state, and local governments gave rise to and reinforced neighborhood segregation” (William Julius Wilson). Exploding the myth of de facto segregation arising from private prejudice or the unintended consequences of economic forces, Rothstein describes how the American government systematically imposed residential segregation: with undisguised racial zoning; public housing that purposefully segregated previously mixed communities; subsidies for builders to create whites-only suburbs; tax exemptions for institutions that enforced segregation; and support for violent resistance to African Americans in white neighborhoods. A groundbreaking, “virtually indispensable” study that has already transformed our understanding of twentieth-century urban history (Chicago Daily Observer), The Color of Law forces us to face the obligation to remedy our unconstitutional past.
government in america textbook: Why America Needs a Left Eli Zaretsky, 2013-04-26 The United States today cries out for a robust, self-respecting, intellectually sophisticated left, yet the very idea of a left appears to have been discredited. In this brilliant new book, Eli Zaretsky rethinks the idea by examining three key moments in American history: the Civil War, the New Deal and the range of New Left movements in the 1960s and after including the civil rights movement, the women's movement and gay liberation.In each period, he argues, the active involvement of the left - especially its critical interaction with mainstream liberalism - proved indispensable. American liberalism, as represented by the Democratic Party, is necessarily spineless and ineffective without a left. Correspondingly, without a strong liberal center, the left becomes sectarian, authoritarian, and worse. Written in an accessible way for the general reader and the undergraduate student, this book provides a fresh perspective on American politics and political history. It has often been said that the idea of a left originated in the French Revolution and is distinctively European; Zaretsky argues, by contrast, that America has always had a vibrant and powerful left. And he shows that in those critical moments when the country returns to itself, it is on its left/liberal bases that it comes to feel most at home.
government in america textbook: American Government Walter E. Volkomer, 1989
government in america textbook: America (the Book) Jon Stewart, Ben Karlin, David Javerbaum, 2004 Amazon.com ExclusivesFeaturing a foreword by Thomas Jefferson, a Dress the Supreme Court layout, and, oddly enough, a profile of George The Iceman Gervin, America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction, from Jon Stewart and the writers of the Emmy Award-winning The Daily Show, is by far one the most irreverent and wittiest (and may we add smartest) political book you're likely to encounter. Amazon.com spoke with Jon Stewart a few days before the 2004 publication of America (The Book) and they discussed bald eagles, magical talking cats, Thor Heyerdahl, and much more • Read the Amazon.com Interview with Jon Stewart • Listen to the Amazon.com Interview with Jon Stewart • Watch a vintage Amazon.com Exclusive Video from Jon StewartMore from Jon Stewart Naked Pictures of Famous People America (The Book) [Audio CD] The Daily Show with Jon Stewart: Indecision 2004 [DVD]
government in america textbook: The American Political Economy Jacob S. Hacker, Alexander Hertel-Fernandez, Paul Pierson, Kathleen Thelen, 2021-11-11 Drawing together leading scholars, the book provides a revealing new map of the US political economy in cross-national perspective.
government in america textbook: Access to Health Care in America Institute of Medicine, Committee on Monitoring Access to Personal Health Care Services, 1993-02-01 Americans are accustomed to anecdotal evidence of the health care crisis. Yet, personal or local stories do not provide a comprehensive nationwide picture of our access to health care. Now, this book offers the long-awaited health equivalent of national economic indicators. This useful volume defines a set of national objectives and identifies indicatorsâ€measures of utilization and outcomeâ€that can sense when and where problems occur in accessing specific health care services. Using the indicators, the committee presents significant conclusions about the situation today, examining the relationships between access to care and factors such as income, race, ethnic origin, and location. The committee offers recommendations to federal, state, and local agencies for improving data collection and monitoring. This highly readable and well-organized volume will be essential for policymakers, public health officials, insurance companies, hospitals, physicians and nurses, and interested individuals.
government in america textbook: The Transformation of American Politics Paul Pierson, Theda Skocpol, 2007-08-19 The contemporary American political landscape has been marked by two paradoxical transformations: the emergence after 1960 of an increasingly activist state, and the rise of an assertive and politically powerful conservatism that strongly opposes activist government. Leading young scholars take up these issues in The Transformation of American Politics. Arguing that even conservative administrations have become more deeply involved in managing our economy and social choices, they examine why our political system nevertheless has grown divided as never before over the extent to which government should involve itself in our lives. The contributors show how these two closely linked trends have influenced the reform and running of political institutions, patterns of civic engagement, and capacities for partisan mobilization--and fueled ever-heightening conflicts over the contours and reach of public policy. These transformations not only redefined who participates in American politics and how they do so, but altered the substance of political conflicts and the capacities of rival interests to succeed. Representing both an important analysis of American politics and an innovative contribution to the study of long-term political change, this pioneering volume reveals how partisan discourse and the relationship between citizens and their government have been redrawn and complicated by increased government programs. The contributors are Andrea Louise Campbell, Jacob S. Hacker, Nolan McCarty, Suzanne Mettler, Paul Pierson, Theda Skocpol, Mark A. Smith, Steven M. Teles, and Julian E. Zelizer.
government in america textbook: Redistricting Charles S. Bullock, 2021-03-10 A 2022 Choice Reviews Outstanding Academic Title This authoritative overview of election redistricting at the congressional, state legislative, and local level provides offers an overview of redistricting for students and practitioners. The updated second edition pays special attention to the significant redistricting controversies of the last decade, from the Supreme Court to state courts.
government in america textbook: American Politics & Government Today William T. Bianco, 2021 American Politics and Government Today teaches students exactly what they need to know to succeed in the course and become informed citizens. The part structure and chapter organization clearly maps to the five AP® U.S. Government and Politics units, for close alignment with the course framework. In each chapter, integrated policy coverage allows students to see how social, economic, or foreign policy relates to real-life situations, while AP®-style multiple-choice questions and the full range of free response questions offer students practice opportunities at the end of each chapter--
government in america textbook: Building a New American State Stephen Skowronek, 1982-06-30 Examines the reconstruction of institutional power relationships that had to be negotiated among the courts, the parties, the President, the Congress, and the states in order to accommodate the expansion of national administrative capacities around the turn of the twentieth century.
government in america textbook: We Have Not a Government George William Van Cleve, 2019-04-05 In 1783, as the Revolutionary War came to a close, Alexander Hamilton resigned in disgust from the Continental Congress after it refused to consider a fundamental reform of the Articles of Confederation. Just four years later, that same government collapsed, and Congress grudgingly agreed to support the 1787 Philadelphia Constitutional Convention, which altered the Articles beyond recognition. What occurred during this remarkably brief interval to cause the Confederation to lose public confidence and inspire Americans to replace it with a dramatically more flexible and powerful government? We Have Not a Government is the story of this contentious moment in American history. In George William Van Cleve’s book, we encounter a sharply divided America. The Confederation faced massive war debts with virtually no authority to compel its members to pay them. It experienced punishing trade restrictions and strong resistance to American territorial expansion from powerful European governments. Bitter sectional divisions that deadlocked the Continental Congress arose from exploding western settlement. And a deep, long-lasting recession led to sharp controversies and social unrest across the country amid roiling debates over greatly increased taxes, debt relief, and paper money. Van Cleve shows how these remarkable stresses transformed the Confederation into a stalemate government and eventually led previously conflicting states, sections, and interest groups to advocate for a union powerful enough to govern a continental empire. Touching on the stories of a wide-ranging cast of characters—including John Adams, Patrick Henry, Daniel Shays, George Washington, and Thayendanegea—Van Cleve makes clear that it was the Confederation’s failures that created a political crisis and led to the 1787 Constitution. Clearly argued and superbly written, We Have Not a Government is a must-read history of this crucial period in our nation’s early life.
government in america textbook: The Trouble with America Kenneth J. Long, 2009-01-16 The Trouble with America critiques the theory and practice of American government, focusing on the fatal flaws of America's core political arrangements. Institutionalized pluralism, the structural dispersal of power, generates government too weak to solve our public problems. American constitutionalism, the limitation of government power and authority, protects property rights far better than it defends our civil liberties, and it offers little or no protection for non-citizens. Capitalism is a hyper-competitive and grossly unfair economic system, which rewards pre-existing wealth far better than hard work or talent, and encourages petty materialist consumption of mostly low-quality goods, undermining taste as well as fairness. Taken together, pluralism, constitutionalism, and capitalism in America harm our society in a myriad of ways, leaving us with inadequate representation, poor leadership, social and political paralysis and irresponsibility, unrealistic self-images, and scandalously poor domestic and foreign policies. This book will prove a valuable supplement in American government courses, an alternative to the centrist material currently dominating textbooks on this subject.
government in america textbook: Who Rules America Now? G. William Domhoff, 1986 The author is convinced that there is a ruling class in America today. He examines the American power structure as it has developed in the 1980s. He presents systematic, empirical evidence that a fixed group of privileged people dominates the American economy and government. The book demonstrates that an upper class comprising only one-half of one percent of the population occupies key positions within the corporate community. It shows how leaders within this power elite reach government and dominate it through processes of special-interest lobbying, policy planning and candidate selection. It is written not to promote any political ideology, but to analyze our society with accuracy.
government in america textbook: By the People James A. Morone, Rogan Kersh, 2016 Challenge your students to ENGAGE in the conversation and process; THINK about the ideas, history, structure, and function; and DEBATE the merits of American government and politics in the 21st century. In a storytelling approach that weaves contemporary examples together with historical context, By the People: Debating American Government, Brief Second Edition, explores the themes and ideas that drive the great debates in American government and politics. It introduces students to big questions like Who governs? How does our system of government work? What does government do? and Who are we? By challenging students with these questions, the text gets them to think about, engage with, and debate the merits of U.S. government and politics. Ideal for professors who prefer a shorter text, By the People, Brief Second Edition, condenses the content of the comprehensive edition while also preserving its essential insights, organization, and approach. Approximately 20% shorter and less expensive than its parent text, the full-color Brief Second Edition features a more streamlined narrative and is enhanced by its own unique supplements package. ENGAGE * -By the Numbers- boxes containing fun facts help frame the quizzical reality of American politics and government * -See For Yourself- features enable students to connect with the click of a smart phone to videos and other interactive online content THINK * Chapter One introduces students to seven key American ideas, which are revisited throughout the text * -The Bottom Line- summaries conclude each chapter section, underscoring the most important aspects of the discussion DEBATE * -What Do You Think?- boxes encourage students to use their critical-thinking skills and debate issues in American government * Four major themes, in the form of questions to spark debate, are presented to students in Chapter One and appear throughout the text
government in america textbook: American Government Theodore J. Lowi, Benjamin Ginsberg, Kenneth A. Shepsle, 2009 Based on the full edition of American Government:Power and Purpose, this brief text combines concise andup-to-date coverage of the central topics in American governmentwith compelling critical analysis. Offering an array of learningtools, the 2008 Election Update Edition uses a refined pedagogicalapparatus to help students approach politics and governmentanalytically. KEY FEATURES o More flexibility to assign supplementaryreadings. The Brief Tenth edition is the perfect choice for instructors whowant the flexibility to assign readings that go beyond thetextbook. Access to the Norton American Politics Online Reader isfree with each new copy, offering an affordable way to providestudents with a range of readings to complement the textbook.Special package prices are also available with Norton''s otherreaders in American government, The Enduring Debate andFaultlines. o More, and more thoughtful, pedagogy thanother brief texts. Several helpful features appear in each chapter to help studentslearn and review. New ''Analyzing the Evidence'' units use boldgraphics to show students ''how we know what we know'' about certainpolitical phenomena. ''Core of the Analysis'' boxes on the first pageof every chapter preview the chapter''s analysis. ''In Brief'' boxes are unique to the briefedition and at least one appears in each chapter. The boxessummarize fundamental material in the chapter and have proveninvaluable in preparing for exams, according to reviewers. ''Key Terms'' are boldface in the text anddefined in the margin. Numerous figures and tables appear in everychapter. New single-column design is easier toread. Online reader icons next to citations indicateworks that are represented in the Norton American Politics OnlineReader. STUDENT RESOURCES The Norton American Politics Online Reader American Government draws on contemporary research andkey scholarship to present the field as political scientistsunderstand it today. The Norton American Politics Online Readerincludes over100 important recent articles and foundational works cited inAmerican Government. Perfect for supplementary readingassignments and special projects, an icon next to the citation inthe text indicates that a reading is available in the onlinereader. Student StudySpace The StudySpace student Web site reinforces the analyticalframework of American Government in a proven, task-oriented studyplan. Each chapter is arranged according to the effective Organize,Learn, and Connect pedagogy: o Organize-This sectioncontains: o Progress Reports to help studentsorganize their study time. o Chapter Summaries and Outlines thathelp students prepare for readings and tests. o Links to the ebook, whichintegrates online review materials with the book. o Learn-This section contains: o Diagnostic Quizzes that helpstudents study for midterms and finals. o Vocabulary Flashcards thatreinforce knowledge of key terms presented in the text. o Connect-This sectioncontains: o Politics in the News RSS Feed-Abi-weekly RSS feed of New York Times articles, annotated by PaulGronke (Reed College) helps students keep up-to-date with thelatest political news. o Analyzing the EvidenceExercises-These interactive exercises are based on the new''Analyzing the Evidence'' units in the text, which explain thesignificance of the data and the basic methodology that politicalscientists use to analyze the data INSTRUCTOR RESOURCES PowerPoint Lecture Slides, Test Bank and an Instructor''sManual.
government in america textbook: Essential American Government Nick Ragone, 2005-09
government in america textbook: America Jon Stewart, Ben Karlin, David Javerbaum, 2005 American democracy is the world's most beloved form of government, which is why so many other nations are eager for it to be imposed on them. But just what exactly is it? Jon Stewart and his fellow patriots from the Emmy-winning The Daily Show finally deliver the answer. They offer their insights into a unique system of government, dissecting its institutions, explaining its history and processes, and exploring the reasons why concepts like 'One man, one vote', 'Government by the people', and 'Every vote counts' have become such popular urban myths. Includes such favourites as Ancient Rome: The First Republicans; The Founding Fathers: Young, Gifted and White; The President: King of Democracy; The Supreme Court: 18 Legs, Four Tits, One Mission; Running for Office: What Are You Thinking?; The Media: Can It Be Stopped?; The Future of Democracy: The Constitutional Robocracy and You
government in america textbook: The World Factbook 2003 United States. Central Intelligence Agency, 2003 By intelligence officials for intelligent people
government in america textbook: Constitutional Government in the United States Woodrow Wilson, 1908
government in america textbook: Ie-Amer Gov/Pol Schmidt, Shelley, Bardes, 2004-12
government in america textbook: Can the Government Govern? John E. Chubb, Paul E. Peterson, 2010-12-01 Effective government requires that institutions be strong enough to control the efforts of organized, entrenched special interests in favor of the broader interests shared but poorly articulated by most members of society. Recent changes in our institutions and in the problems they face raise doubts about the capacity of contemporary American government to handle these parochial forces. Congress has seemingly become more fragmented, the presidency more politicized, and the bureaucracy more labyrinthine. After a decade or more of trying, our institutions have not mastered a variety of problems—the budget deficit, the trade imbalance, and energy insecurity—that threaten society's general interest in an economic future as bright as its past. Can the Government Govern? argues that the problem is inherently and substantially institutional and discusses the politically difficult requirements for overcoming it. In so doing, this volume opens the debate and public discussion necessary for change. Contributors include John E. Chubb writing on energy policy, David B. Yoffie on trade policy, Paul E. Peterson and Mark Rom on macroeconomic policy, Samuel Kernell on the presidency, Kenneth A. Shesple on Congress, and Terry M. Moe on the bureaucracy.
government in america textbook: United States Government Policy and Supporting Positions Us Congress, 2021-01-19 The Plum Book is published by the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs and House Committee on Oversight and Reform alternately after each Presidential election. The Plum Book is used to identify Presidential appointed and other positions within the Federal Government. The publication lists over 9,000 Federal civil service leadership and support positions in the legislative and executive branches of the Federal Government that may be subject to noncompetitive appointment. The duties of many such positions may involve advocacy of Administration policies and programs and the incumbents usually have a close and confidential working relationship with the agency head or other key officials. The Plum Book was first published in 1952 during the Eisenhower administration. When President Eisenhower took office, the Republican Party requested a list of government positions that President Eisenhower could fill. The next edition of the Plum Book appeared in 1960 and has since been published every four years, just after the Presidential election.
government in america textbook: American Democracy Now Brigid Harrison, Michelle Deardorff, Jean Harris, 2012-12-26 Increase student performance, student engagement, and critical analysis skills with the third edition of American Democracy Now. This program is available with GinA, an educational game in which students learn American Government by doing, as well as McGraw-Hill’s LearnSmart, an adaptive questioning tool proven to increase content comprehension and improve student results. Unique to this program, American Democracy Now 3e is a student-centered text focused on student performance. This contemporary approach and design, coupled with market-leading digital products, make this an ideal solution to course goals.
government in america textbook: American Government Peter Woll, 1978
government in america textbook: Government by the People David B Magleby, 2021-04 As the title of our book suggests, we view the idea of government by the people as a defining element of American politics and government. From the Mayflower Compact to the Declaration of Independence to the expansion of rights and liberties to more and more citizens in the last century, we have expanded on the idea of self-government. Too often, Americans take their basic rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for granted. But these rights were guaranteed neither by those who wrote our Constitution nor by the citizens who have worked, one generation after another, to expand these rights and set our government's course. Rather, government by the people today depends on citizens who are informed and involved in the decisions and processes of our constitutional democracy. We have written this book with the aim of informing you about why you have a stake in our government. In this edition, we have gone a step further to argue that you can have an impact on government at all levels if you understand how government works-what we call structure-and if you are willing to act on your knowledge. Our idea can be summarized as follows: knowledge of structure + action = impact. We will develop this focus in each chapter--
government in america textbook: Maps for America Morris Mordecai Thompson, 1981
government in america textbook: The Basics of American Government Carl D. Cavalli, 2013-08-06 The Basics of American Government is a collaborative effort among eight current and one former faculty members in the Departments of Political Science and Criminal Justice at University of North Georgia. The purpose of this book is to offer a no-frills, low-cost, yet comprehensive overview of the American political system for students taking introductory courses in American national government. Furthermore, the work combines the best aspects of both a traditional textbook and a reader in that most chapters offer a piece of original scholarship as a case study to bolster or reinforce the material presented in the chapter. In addition, many chapters present a civic engagement-type exercise and discussion questions intended to challenge, engage, and foster student participation in the political system. The authors undertook this project for several reasons, most notably the high costs of textbooks for students and the lack of college-level scholarship found in most American Government texts. This 375-page, peer-reviewed, edited book that combines traditional material with original scholarship will cost students $27.99, well below market standards. All of the authors are experienced classroom instructors, subject matter experts, and published researchers in the field of American politics.
American Government 2e - OpenStax
American Government 2e. Study American Government online free by downloading OpenStax's American Government textbook and using our accompanying online resources.
Ch. 1 Introduction - American Government 3e - OpenStax
The purpose of voting and other forms of political engagement is to ensure that government serves the people, and not the other way around. But what does government do to serve the people? What different forms of government exist? How do they differ? How can citizens best engage with and participate in the crucial process of governing the nation?
Ch. 6 Introduction - American Government 3e - OpenStax
6.4 The Effects of Public Opinion. On November 7, 2012, the day after the presidential election, journalists found Mitt Romney’s transition website, detailing the Republican candidate’s plans for the upcoming inauguration celebration and criteria for Cabinet and White House appointees and leaving space for video of his acceptance speech. 1 ...
Ch. 1 Summary - American Government 2e - OpenStax
Many question whether politicians are actually interested in the needs of average citizens and debate how much influence ordinary people have over what government does. Those who support the elite theory of government argue that a small, wealthy, powerful elite controls government and makes policy to benefit its members and perpetuate their power.
Index - American Government 3e - OpenStax
Jefferson 2.1 The Pre-Revolutionary Period and the Roots of the American Political Tradition, 2.3 The Development of the Constitution, 2.4 The Ratification of the Constitution, 3.2 The Evolution of American Federalism, 4.1 What Are Civil Liberties?, 5.2 The African American Struggle for Equality, 9.1 What Are Parties and How Did They Form?, 12. ...
U.S. History - OpenStax
Study U.S. History online free by downloading OpenStax's United States History textbook and using our accompanying online resources.
OpenStax
This free textbook by OpenStax provides comprehensive information on American government, covering political engagement, civil rights, and presidential governance.
Preface - American Government 3e - OpenStax
American Government 3e aligns to the topics and objectives of many introductory American government courses. We have endeavored to make the government workings, issues, debates, and impacts meaningful and memorable to students while maintaining the conceptual coverage and rigor inherent in the subject at the college level.
1.1 What is Government? - American Government 3e - OpenStax
Americans are often unaware of the pervasiveness of government in their everyday lives, and many are unsure precisely what it does. Here we will look at what government is, what it does, and how the government of the United States differs from other kinds of governments.
References - American Government 3e - OpenStax
This free textbook is an OpenStax resource written to increase student access to high-quality, peer-reviewed learning materials.
American Government 2e - OpenStax
American Government 2e. Study American Government online free by downloading OpenStax's American Government textbook and using our accompanying online resources.
Ch. 1 Introduction - American Government 3e - OpenStax
The purpose of voting and other forms of political engagement is to ensure that government serves the people, and not the other way around. But what does government do to serve the people? What different forms of government exist? How do they differ? How can citizens best engage with and participate in the crucial process of governing the nation?
Ch. 6 Introduction - American Government 3e - OpenStax
6.4 The Effects of Public Opinion. On November 7, 2012, the day after the presidential election, journalists found Mitt Romney’s transition website, detailing the Republican candidate’s plans for the upcoming inauguration celebration and criteria for Cabinet and White House appointees and leaving space for video of his acceptance speech. 1 ...
Ch. 1 Summary - American Government 2e - OpenStax
Many question whether politicians are actually interested in the needs of average citizens and debate how much influence ordinary people have over what government does. Those who support the elite theory of government argue that a small, wealthy, powerful elite controls government and makes policy to benefit its members and perpetuate their power.
Index - American Government 3e - OpenStax
Jefferson 2.1 The Pre-Revolutionary Period and the Roots of the American Political Tradition, 2.3 The Development of the Constitution, 2.4 The Ratification of the Constitution, 3.2 The Evolution of American Federalism, 4.1 What Are Civil Liberties?, 5.2 The African American Struggle for Equality, 9.1 What Are Parties and How Did They Form?, 12. ...
U.S. History - OpenStax
Study U.S. History online free by downloading OpenStax's United States History textbook and using our accompanying online resources.
OpenStax
This free textbook by OpenStax provides comprehensive information on American government, covering political engagement, civil rights, and presidential governance.
Preface - American Government 3e - OpenStax
American Government 3e aligns to the topics and objectives of many introductory American government courses. We have endeavored to make the government workings, issues, debates, and impacts meaningful and memorable to students while maintaining the conceptual coverage and rigor inherent in the subject at the college level.
1.1 What is Government? - American Government 3e - OpenStax
Americans are often unaware of the pervasiveness of government in their everyday lives, and many are unsure precisely what it does. Here we will look at what government is, what it does, and how the government of the United States differs from other kinds of governments.
References - American Government 3e - OpenStax
This free textbook is an OpenStax resource written to increase student access to high-quality, peer-reviewed learning materials.
Textbooks can be expensive. Explore options like used bookstores, online rentals, or purchasing older editions (ensure they cover the relevant material).
Top "Government in America" Textbook Options
While numerous excellent textbooks on American government exist, some consistently receive high praise:
1. Government in America: People, Politics, and Policy (Wilson & DiIulio):
This widely used textbook offers a comprehensive overview of the American political system, balancing historical context with contemporary issues. Its clear writing style and engaging examples make it accessible to a broad audience.2. American Government: Institutions and Policies (O'Connor & Sabato):
Known for its in-depth analysis of political institutions and policies, this textbook provides a strong foundation for understanding the intricacies of the American government.3. We the People: An Introduction to American Politics (Schattsneider):
This classic text offers a more concise yet insightful approach to American government, emphasizing the role of citizens in the political process.4. American Government: Continuity and Change (Edwards & Wattenberg):
This textbook emphasizes the dynamic nature of American government, highlighting both its historical foundations and its ongoing evolution. It often incorporates contemporary case studies to illustrate key concepts.Choosing Beyond the Big Names:
Don't limit yourself to the most popular choices. Explore reviews and table of contents to find a textbook that aligns with your specific learning needs and interests.Maximizing Your Textbook Experience
Once you've chosen your textbook, employ these strategies to maximize its effectiveness:
Read Actively: Annotate the text, take notes, and summarize key concepts.
Utilize Supporting Materials: Many textbooks offer online resources, such as study guides, quizzes, and interactive exercises.
Engage in Discussions: Participate in class discussions and study groups to solidify your understanding.
Connect to Current Events: Relate the concepts you're learning to current political events and news stories.
Conclusion
Selecting the right "Government in America" textbook is a critical step in understanding this complex subject. By carefully considering your needs, exploring different options, and actively engaging with the material, you can effectively learn and master the intricacies of American government. Remember that the best textbook is the one that best suits your individual learning style and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use an older edition of a "Government in America" textbook? Often, yes, but check the syllabus and compare the table of contents to ensure it covers the necessary material. Significant political changes might render some older editions outdated.
2. Are there online versions of "Government in America" textbooks? Yes, many publishers offer digital versions, often with added multimedia content.
3. What resources are available to help me understand difficult concepts in the textbook? Consider consulting your professor, attending office hours, joining a study group, or utilizing online resources such as Khan Academy or Crash Course Government and Politics.
4. How can I make the textbook material more engaging? Try connecting the material to current events, watching relevant documentaries, or researching case studies related to the concepts discussed.
5. Where can I find affordable "Government in America" textbooks? Explore used bookstores, online marketplaces (like Amazon or eBay), or consider renting the textbook instead of buying it. Your college bookstore might also offer used or rental options.
American Government 2e - OpenStax
American Government 2e. Study American Government online free by downloading OpenStax's American Government textbook and using our accompanying online resources.
Ch. 1 Introduction - American Government 3e - OpenStax
The purpose of voting and other forms of political engagement is to ensure that government serves the people, and not the other way around. But what does government do to serve the people? What different forms of government exist? How do they differ? How can citizens best engage with and participate in the crucial process of governing the nation?
Ch. 6 Introduction - American Government 3e - OpenStax
6.4 The Effects of Public Opinion. On November 7, 2012, the day after the presidential election, journalists found Mitt Romney’s transition website, detailing the Republican candidate’s plans for the upcoming inauguration celebration and criteria for Cabinet and White House appointees and leaving space for video of his acceptance speech. 1 ...
Ch. 1 Summary - American Government 2e - OpenStax
Many question whether politicians are actually interested in the needs of average citizens and debate how much influence ordinary people have over what government does. Those who support the elite theory of government argue that a small, wealthy, powerful elite controls government and makes policy to benefit its members and perpetuate their power.
Index - American Government 3e - OpenStax
Jefferson 2.1 The Pre-Revolutionary Period and the Roots of the American Political Tradition, 2.3 The Development of the Constitution, 2.4 The Ratification of the Constitution, 3.2 The Evolution of American Federalism, 4.1 What Are Civil Liberties?, 5.2 The African American Struggle for Equality, 9.1 What Are Parties and How Did They Form?, 12. ...
U.S. History - OpenStax
Study U.S. History online free by downloading OpenStax's United States History textbook and using our accompanying online resources.
OpenStax
This free textbook by OpenStax provides comprehensive information on American government, covering political engagement, civil rights, and presidential governance.
Preface - American Government 3e - OpenStax
American Government 3e aligns to the topics and objectives of many introductory American government courses. We have endeavored to make the government workings, issues, debates, and impacts meaningful and memorable to students while maintaining the conceptual coverage and rigor inherent in the subject at the college level.
1.1 What is Government? - American Government 3e - OpenStax
Americans are often unaware of the pervasiveness of government in their everyday lives, and many are unsure precisely what it does. Here we will look at what government is, what it does, and how the government of the United States differs from other kinds of governments.
References - American Government 3e - OpenStax
This free textbook is an OpenStax resource written to increase student access to high-quality, peer-reviewed learning materials.
American Government 2e - OpenStax
American Government 2e. Study American Government online free by downloading OpenStax's American Government textbook and using our accompanying online resources.
Ch. 1 Introduction - American Government 3e - OpenStax
The purpose of voting and other forms of political engagement is to ensure that government serves the people, and not the other way around. But what does government do to serve the people? What different forms of government exist? How do they differ? How can citizens best engage with and participate in the crucial process of governing the nation?
Ch. 6 Introduction - American Government 3e - OpenStax
6.4 The Effects of Public Opinion. On November 7, 2012, the day after the presidential election, journalists found Mitt Romney’s transition website, detailing the Republican candidate’s plans for the upcoming inauguration celebration and criteria for Cabinet and White House appointees and leaving space for video of his acceptance speech. 1 ...
Ch. 1 Summary - American Government 2e - OpenStax
Many question whether politicians are actually interested in the needs of average citizens and debate how much influence ordinary people have over what government does. Those who support the elite theory of government argue that a small, wealthy, powerful elite controls government and makes policy to benefit its members and perpetuate their power.
Index - American Government 3e - OpenStax
Jefferson 2.1 The Pre-Revolutionary Period and the Roots of the American Political Tradition, 2.3 The Development of the Constitution, 2.4 The Ratification of the Constitution, 3.2 The Evolution of American Federalism, 4.1 What Are Civil Liberties?, 5.2 The African American Struggle for Equality, 9.1 What Are Parties and How Did They Form?, 12. ...
U.S. History - OpenStax
Study U.S. History online free by downloading OpenStax's United States History textbook and using our accompanying online resources.
OpenStax
This free textbook by OpenStax provides comprehensive information on American government, covering political engagement, civil rights, and presidential governance.
Preface - American Government 3e - OpenStax
American Government 3e aligns to the topics and objectives of many introductory American government courses. We have endeavored to make the government workings, issues, debates, and impacts meaningful and memorable to students while maintaining the conceptual coverage and rigor inherent in the subject at the college level.
1.1 What is Government? - American Government 3e - OpenStax
Americans are often unaware of the pervasiveness of government in their everyday lives, and many are unsure precisely what it does. Here we will look at what government is, what it does, and how the government of the United States differs from other kinds of governments.
References - American Government 3e - OpenStax
This free textbook is an OpenStax resource written to increase student access to high-quality, peer-reviewed learning materials.
