Modern Politics and Government

Contemporary Review, July, 2005

Modern Politics and Government. Alan R. Ball and B. Guy Peters. Palgrave-Macmillan. [pounds sterling]16.99. xii 339 pages. ISBN 0-333-96161-7. This is the seventh edition of a venerable title first published in 1971. This new edition takes account of changes since the last edition in 2000 but its aim is the same: to introduce readers to politics and to the study of politics.

The text has been 'revised, rewritten and updated' and a new chapter has been added on the increasingly important phenomenon of globalisation. As hitherto, the writers, having analysed the study of politics, turn to various topics such as the nature of power and authority, the classification of governments, political culture, parties and electoral systems, pressure groups, representation, elections and voting, legislatures, executives, bureaucracy, the courts, the military and, finally, changes in political systems round the world. This revision of an established title is welcome and will ensure it continues to be of use for a new generation of readers. (G.F.B.)