European Politics: a Comparative Introduction (4th Edition)

Abstract:

This textbook is an introduction to the governance and politics of Europe, and it provides a guide to the continent's main institutions and the issues. It covers a common core of countries (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Greece, Poland, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Sweden), but it does not confine itself to it.

Chapters in this edition were expanded to deal with the new economic and political realities of life in Europe, including the implications of the UK's decision in 2016 to leave the European Union (EU). Furthermore, the book is supported by an accompanying website which includes features to help guide learning, including multiple choice questions, an internet guide to European politics and individual chapter resources.

Table of Contents:

1. Europe: a continent in the making
2. The end of the nation state?
3. From government to governance: running the state, making policy and policing the constitution
4. Governments and parliaments: a long way from equality
5. Parties: how the past affects the present, and an uncertain future
6. Elections, voting and referendums: systems, turnout, preferences and unpredictability
7. The media: player and recorder
8. Participation and pressure politics: civil society, organised interests and social movements
9. Politics over markets: does politics – and left and right – still matter?
10. Not wanted, but needed: migrants and minorities
11. Protecting and promoting: Europe's international politics