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Polarized Politics: The Impact of Divisiveness in the US Political System

William Crotty, editor
Polarized Politics: The Impact of Divisiveness in the US Political System
ISBN: 978-1-62637-167-5
$55.00
2014/409 pages/LC: 2014036410
"Among the many books on polarization, this book stands out both for its comprehensiveness and for the strengths of its individual contributors.... [I]t is a well-crafted collection of essays that will be of use both to students and to scholars."—Robert G. Boatright, New England Journal of Political Science

"A valuable contribution to our understanding of where we are today and how we got there."—Bruce E. Cain, Perspectives on Politics

"An excellent collection of salient, cutting-edge research on the nature and causes of political division within American politics and government.... Recommended for students and scholars at all levels, as well as the general public."—Choice

DESCRIPTION

What are the consequences of political polarization in the United States? Are citizens' interests adequately represented when divisive politics are the norm? What ideologies—and entrenched institutions—perpetuate these divisions, and what social groups are most affected? Answering these questions, Polarized Politics is a major contribution to our understanding of the causes, evolution, and impact of the politics of divisiveness in the US.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

William Crotty holds the Thomas P. O’Neill, Jr. Chair in Public Life and is emeritus professor of political science at Northeastern University. His recent books include The Obama Presidency: Promise and Performance and Winning the Presidency 2012.

CONTENTS

  • Polarization in US Politics and Policy—W. Crotty.
  • Ideology as a Polarizing Force—W. Crotty.
  • Voter Turnout and the Path to Plutocracy—W.D. Burnham.
  • From Umbrella Parties to Polarized Parties—A.C. Paulson.
  • Big Money, Mass Media, and the Polarization of Congress—T. Ferguson.
  • Structural Sources of Political Polarization—G.M. Pomper and M.D. Weiner.  
  • Religious Groups as a Polarizing Force—L.A. Kellstedt and J.L. Guth.
  • Women's Political Leadership Roles—B.C. Burrell.
  • African Americans and Party Politics—W. Crotty.
  • Latinos, Partisanship, and Electoral Engagement—J.A. Garcia.
  • Gay Rights and the Party Divide—P.R. Brewer and S.C. Fettig.
  • Aging Policy: A Partisan Paradox—C.L. Day.
  • The Debate Over Health Care—T.R. Marshall.
  • Representation in a Dysfunctional Democracy—W. Crotty.