Introduction to Politics and Society

by Shaun Best

Overview

Introduction to Politics and Society draws on examples from popular political culture in order to convey how politics operates in the contemporary world. Examples illustrate the meaning of theories and show the relevance of central theoretical debates. Planned and developed with an eye to the needs of students, the book is an extraordinary resource for undergraduate teaching and study needs. It will be required reading for undergraduate students in sociology, politics and social policy.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780761971313
Publisher:	SAGE Publications
Publication date:	02/15/2002
Edition description:	First Edition
Pages:	276
Product dimensions:	6.69(w) x 9.53(h) x (d)

About the Author

Shaun Best is a Lecturer in the School of Education at the University of Manchester, and author of Understanding Social Divisions, (2005) and A Beginner's Guide to Social Theory (2003, both SAGE).

Table of Contents

Introduction
Reading the ‘Social' and the ‘Political'
Power, Authority and the State
Postmodern Politics
Marxist and Elite Theories of Power
Pluralism and Political Parties
New Social Movements
Globalization and Power
War
Voting Behaviour

Editorial Reviews

An introduction to political and social theory that focuses on current social and political issues. The author has attempted to distill the ideas of historical and contemporary theorists, a number of which are not traditionally included in similar texts, in an accessible manner. Chapters focus on power, authority, and the state; postmodern politics; Marxist and elite theories of power; pluralism and political parties; new social movements; globalization and power; war; and voting behavior. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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