A consistent, question-based structure fosters learning Each chapter begins with a central question that focuses on a core aspect of politics, illustrated by a real-world example that helps students grasp the importance of the topic. Framing the chapter's subject as a question: Provides a narrative thread for students to follow as they read the chapter; Fosters classroom discussion; Illustrates how scholars go about answering similar questions; and Offers a clear reference point for students to articulate their own answers, which will help them on their assignments and exams. After it is introduced, the authors explain the ways scholars have attempted to answer the central question . Throughout the chapter, more real-world examples are employed to ground the question and clarify the discussion. As each chapter progresses, the central question is supported by subquestions in the margins that encourage students to examine more than one facet of a political puzzle. In short, each chapter shows how political scientists engage a smaller piece of a larger puzzle and then explore, debate, and articulate plausible answers to key questions about politics in the world today. Engaging pedagogical features help students comprehend and apply key concepts Hypothesis Testing boxes allow students to apply what they have learned in every chapter. Opening with a statement that can be tested by exploring real-world country cases, each box walks students through the process of "Gathering Evidence" in order to "Assess the Hypothesis.
" Each exercise is meant to engage students actively with the process of comparative politics, providing them with opportunities to learn how to recognize and ultimately construct their own arguments. A summary table at the end of every major section enables students to review key concepts in an organized and easy-to-read format. A marginal glossary in each chapter supports students' understanding of new and important concepts at first encounter. For easy reference, key terms from the marginal glossary are repeated at the end of each chapter, along with review questions and an annotated list of suggested readings. Numerous color photos and figures integrated throughout the text enliven the narrative. New and updated content facilitates an up-to-date learning experience UPDATED! Revised figures and tables support the narrative through the presentation of pertinent data that concisely illustrate key concepts. UPDATED! A fresh discussion of electoral institutions has been included to account for results of elections in the UK and elsewhere. UPDATED! A revised exploration of regime change enhances relevance and promote discussion of recent "pessimistic" views of global politics, which predict a weakening or even collapse of democracy around the world.
UPDATED! The discussion of the aftermath of the Arab Spring and the paths of democracy and dictatorship in the Middle East and North Africa has been updated to maintain relevance. UPDATED! New photos enhance the relevance of chapter topics to today's students. UPDATED! Expanded coverage of nationalism in Chapter 6 takes into account recent events such as Brexit in the UK, the election of Donald Trump in the United States, and the spread of anti-immigrant sentiment in Western Europe. UPDATED! To reflect the fact that politics involves constant change, numerous new examples have been introduced throughout the text to keep the text relevant to disciplinary questions.