Combining thematic chapters and country cases, Comparative Politics Today: A World View sets the standard for introducing the field of comparative politics and for illustrating how to compare the worlds political systems. This text begins by laying out a proven analytical framework that is accessible for students new to the field; it is then consistently implemented in twelve authoritative country cases not only to introduce students to what politics and governments are like around the world but to also understand the importance of their similarities and differences. Written by leading comparativists and area study specialists, Comparative Politics Today helps to sort through the worlds complexity and to recognize patterns that lead to genuine political insight.