Comparative politics Books

Book SynopsisThe third edition of this popular, innovative and engaging textbook introduces students to the various methods of modern social science, explaining how these have emerged, their strengths and limitations for understanding the world in which we live, and how it is possible to combine methodological pluralism with intellectual rigour. Focussing on the debate between positivist and constructivist approaches, this new edition features contemporary research examples, expanded discussion of experimental methods, and a new emphasis on methods that have recently grown in popularity, such as process tracing and controlled randomized trials. This is the perfect textbook for students studying the philosophy of science in the context of political science or the social sciences more broadly, and it is essential reading for all those seeking to understand how different ways of knowing affect the methods we choose to study social phenomena. New to this Edition:- Contemporary research examples- A Trade ReviewNo book does a better job rendering accessible so much of the history and concepts of philosophy of science for the budding social scientist. * Craig Parsons, University of Oregon, USA *Ways of Knowing is probably the best introductory book on the market on social science philosophy and methodologies. The book has been a regular part of the curriculum for 300 political science and social science students per year for almost 10 years at the University of Copenhagen. This is because both teachers and students are very satisfied with it. * Peter Nedergaard, University of Copenhagen, Denmark *With an elegant set-up, imaginative use of examples from inside and outside of academia, and unrelenting commitment to methodological pluralism, the third edition of Ways of Knowing remains the leading political science textbook on methodology. * Liam Stanley, University of Sheffield, UK *The social sciences are a site of deep and divisive debate about the nature of reality and how it ought to be studied, between positivists and interpretivists, econometricians and qualitative researchers, experimentalists and observationalists. In this lucid and innovative book, Moses and Knutsen help readers make sense of a multiplicity of empirical approaches by explicating the philosophical tenets of, and research strategies that flow from, two broad methodological outlooks: naturalism and constructivism. Surveying the most prominent methods in the social sciences (experimental, statistical, comparative, and narrative-historical) the authors show how both naturalists and constructivists scholars employ each of these frameworks, but on differing logics and toward differing knowledge-producing ends. For students of sociology or political science, this text will serve as an invaluable map of the methodological terrain while making a timely case for building intellectual bridges between traditions. * Alan M. Jacobs, University of British Columbia, Canada *With their third edition of Ways of Knowing, Moses and Knutsen carefully revise and update a must-have for every scholar of social and political research. Strengthening the strengths of their excellent textbook, they provide a comprehensive and insightful discussion of two main strands of social science methodologies and methods: naturalism and constructivism. * Rolf Frankenberger, University of Tübingen, Germany *This is an extremely clear, straightforward and well-exemplified guide to social science. Any student struggling to grasp the idea of a social science should read chapters 2 to 6 of this excellent book, which covers experiments, statistical analysis, comparison, and historical/case study approaches. The third edition further updates and expands the diversity of techniques within each camp. * Adrian Blau, King's College London, UK *Table of Contents1. Introduction 2. The Naturalist Philosophy of Science 3. The Experimental Method 4. The Statistical Method 5. The Comparative Method 6. History, Interviews and Case Studies 7. Sowing Doubts about the Naturalist Methodology 8. A Constructivist Philosophy of Science 9. From Story Telling to Telling Histories 10. Comparing Contexts 11. Contextualizing Statistics 12. Interpretive Experiments 13. Conclusion.

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Book SynopsisThis book analyses Member States’ and EU neighbours’ national visions for the enlargement of the European Union (EU), highlighting 41 national histories, policies, and corresponding public perceptions of European integration. In a geopolitical context in which Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine has renewed the impetus for EU enlargement, national views vary considerably on the timing, conditions, and reforms necessary to welcome Eastern neighbours and the Western Balkans countries into the European family. Moreover, EU enlargement policy is not only an investment in peace and stability; it has also become a political tool in response to the exploitation of interdependencies and illiberal pressures. This book presents concrete policy recommendations to national governments and the EU on how to move forward productively.Table of Contents Enlarging and reforming the European Union - An Austrian perspective Belgium: If the enlargement process is broken, then fix it Bulgaria's attitude towards EU enlargement Croatia: Between proclaimed enthusiasm and reality on the ground The national debate in Cyprus on the future of EU enlargement policy The Czech Approach to EU Enlargement: Full Steam Ahead! Denmark: Two or three recent shifts and the problem of favouring stability and security over democratisation Estonia: definitely positive about enlargements Finland and EU enlargement What French infuriating reluctance reveals Germany and EU enlargement (title TBC) Greece, EU enlargement and the ‘ Thessaloniki promise‘ Enlargement at all costs? Hungarian visions for the political agenda of the EU towards the Eastern Neighborhood and the Western Balkans Ireland and EU enlargement (title TBC) Beyond ‘Enlargement Fatigue’– A View from Rome on the Future of Europe Head and Heart in the Right Place: Latvia on the EU Enlargement Lithuania’s strong support for EU’s "open door“ policy – how to cope with getting what you aimed for? Luxembourg: Get ready to enlarge Malta and Enlargement – Supportive but Not Engaged Direction East – Polish views on EU’s Enlargement Policy Portugal: Nobody talks about enlargement Romania’s constant support for the enlargement process. A proof of investment in European values Slovakia’s Approach to EU Enlargement: From Strategic Passivity to Declaratory Supporter Slovenia: a Strong Defender of Western Balkan Enlargement Spain: A country in favour of enlargement, but of low performance Sweden and EU enlargement: A strong supporter walking a fine line Strict, fair, engaged.... and still without a vision? A view from the Netherlands on EU enlargement, the western Balkans and the Eastern neighbourhood What's holding back Albania? Bosnia and EU enlargement (title TBC) Seizing the EU Enlargement Momentum: Georgia’s Prospects for Joining the European Family Iceland's passive supportive approach: Vocal with others on Ukraine Kosovo's EU membership bid: a leap of faith Liechtenstein and EU enlargement (title TBC) How should EU support Moldova’s path towards accession? The Scramble for re-Enlargement: Montenegro North Macedonia: Stuck at the doorstep of EU? Norway and the enlargement of the EU Serbia on a rocky road to the EU Switzerland: not a candidate but a partner in EU enlargement Schrödinger’s Candidate: Türkiye’s Awkward Situation within the Enlargement Debate Oh the outside looking in: The UK after Brexit Ukraine: Enlargement of the EU in the new realities: Challenges and prospect

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Book SynopsisAbusive Constitutional Borrowing outlines this phenomenon, how it succeeds, and what we can do to prevent it. This book address current patterns of democratic retrenchment and explores its multiple variants and technologies, considering the role of legitimating ideologies that help support different modes of abusive constitutionalism.Trade ReviewDixon and Landau document the extent to which autocratic leaders have figured out how to convert independent courts and written rights guarantees into tools for consolidating power, repressing the opposition, and sidelining minorities. They support this account with a remarkable range of empirical examples, drawn from virtually all regions of the constitutional world. * Thomas M. Keck, Law & Social Inquiry *Table of Contents1: Introduction: A Dark Side of Comparative Constitutional Law 2: Democracy and Abusive Constitutional Change 3: The Concept and Scope of Abusive Constitutional Borrowing 4: The Abuse of Constitutional Rights 5: Abusive Judicial Review 6: The Abuse of Constituent Power 7: The Abusive Borrowing of Political Constitutionalism and Weak-Form Judicial Review 8: Can Abusive Borrowing Be Stopped?

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Book SynopsisKey content coverage is combined with practical tips to create a revision guide that students can rely on to review, strengthen and test their knowledge.With My Revision Notes every student can:- Plan and manage a successful revision programme using the topic-by-topic planner- Enjoy an interactive approach to revision, with clear topic summaries that consolidate knowledge and related activities that put the content into context- Build, practise and enhance exam skills by progressing through revision tasks and Test Yourself activities- Improve exam technique through exam-style questions and sample answers with commentary from expert authors and teachers- Get exam ready with extra quick quizzes and answers to the activities available online

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Book SynopsisWhy Democracy Needs the Rich challenges the prevailing narrative that wealth undermines democracy, offering a bold, thought-provoking case for the essential role of the rich in sustaining and enhancing democratic institutions. In a time when billionaires are often vilified as symbols of inequality and unchecked power, John O. McGinnis flips the script, arguing that the wealthy are not just vital contributors to innovation and economic growth but also indispensable counterbalances to the influence of other powerful groups. Drawing on history, economics, and political philosophy, McGinnis illustrates how the rich act as stabilizers in a democracy by funding civic institutions, championing diverse ideas, and driving technological progress. He reveals how wealth can counteract the sway of ideologically homogeneous elites in media, academia, and entertainment while serving as a check on the excesses of special interest groups and bureaucracies. With sharp analysis and compelling examples, this book explores the unique role of the wealthy in preserving the balance and dynamism of a free society. It highlights how their financial independence fosters ideological diversity and their investments fuel advancements that benefit all citizens, not just the elite. Far from being a defense of inequality, Why Democracy Needs the Rich is a powerful argument for understanding how wealth, in the right context, strengthens the foundations of representative democracy and fosters a more resilient, vibrant society.

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Book SynopsisNations are not trapped by their pasts, but events that happened hundreds or even thousands of years ago continue to exert huge influence on present-day politics. If we are to understand the politics that we now take for granted, we need to understand its origins. Francis Fukuyama examines the paths that different societies have taken to reach their current forms of political order. This book starts with the very beginning of mankind and comes right up to the eve of the French and American revolutions, spanning such diverse disciplines as economics, anthropology and geography. The Origins of Political Order is a magisterial study on the emergence of mankind as a political animal, by one of the most eminent political thinkers writing today.Trade ReviewFukuyama remains as prominent as ever * FT *Elegant, honest, persuasive ... he attacks his former academic allies and friends ... with a relentless and awesome force * Glasgow Herald *It should be read by every democrat - and every dictator. -- Dominic Lawson * Sunday Times *Thoroughly worthwhile ... [the book] will give many thoughtful people a sensible path forward * Spectator *This is that rare work of history with up-to-the-minute relevance * Publishers Weekly (starred review) *No longer the neocon of former days, Fukuyama seems a more flexible and discerning thinker, and as always, his mastery of the literature is daunting. This exceptional book should be in every library * Library Journal *Sweeping, provocative big-picture study of humankind's political impulses ... Endlessly interesting - reminiscent at turns of Oswald Spengler, Stanislaw Andreski and Samuel Huntington, though less pessimistic and much better written * Kirkus Reviews (starred) *Societies that learn from mistakes rather than punish them have an inherent resilience...It is confirmed by this ambitious work. -- Oliver Kamm * The Times *

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Book SynopsisTHE TIMES, SUNDAY TIMES, FINANCIAL TIMES and EVENING STANDARD BOOKS OF THE YEAR 2018Whiteshift tells the most important political story of the 21st century: how demographic change is transforming Western politics and how to think about the future of white majorities''Powerful and rigorously researched. . . this is a book that speaks to the most urgent and difficult issues of our time'' - John Gray, author of Seven Types of AtheismThis is the century of whiteshift. As Western societies are becoming increasingly mixed-race, demographic change is transforming politics. Over half of American babies are non-white, and by the end of the century, minorities and those of mixed race are projected to form the majority in the UK and other countries. The early stages of this transformation have led to a populist disruption, tearing a path through the usual politics of left and right. One of the most crucial challengeTrade ReviewA magisterial survey of the most important political trend of the 21st century so far. It will be controversial - but mostly with those who dislike evidence, are horrified by open mindedness, and who find it convenient to ignore truth. It should be required reading for today's rulers; they may not like it, but they need to understand Kaufmann's defence of democracy before it's too late -- Trevor PhillipsA powerful and rigorously researched exploration of how demographic change is transforming western societies and politics. Rejecting extreme nationalism and extreme liberal individualism alike, Kaufmann uses a wealth of empirical data to carve out a space for a multivocal and flexible political system that recognises ethnic identities without sacrificing liberal values of freedom and tolerance. Whether or not you end up agreeing with it, this is a book that speaks to the most urgent and difficult issues of our time -- John Gray, author of Seven Types of AtheismWhiteshift is a big, brilliant, ambitious book - perhaps the first truly definitive book of the Trump era. Meticulous, challenging, and provocative, this is the rare book that takes it upon itself to try to shift our entire way of thinking on the most difficult question of our time - inevitable demographic and ethnic change in the United States and Europe -- Shadi Hamid, Senior Fellow, Brookings Institution and author of Islamic ExceptionalismExtraordinary. . . a tour de force that could expand the so-called "Overton window" - the range of what is acceptable to say - on these central issues -- David Goodhart * Sunday Times *A detailed analysis of attitudes to race breaks the taboo on this vital subject . . . Anyone interested in preparing for the future would do well to read this book. . . Part of the usefulness of the book is in the amount of new data that Kaufmann brings to the debate. As well as his statistical analysis Kaufmann also displays an extraordinarily deep and wide historical knowledge -- Douglas Murray * Evening Standard *A giant of a book, channelling together cascades of polls, data sets and excursions in history to produce a conclusion of qualified optimism. . . does the large service of telling liberals and leftists who prefer to remain shocked rather than to work at understanding that their fellow citizens are not, in the main, deplorable bigots, and that white fear is real, but need not be dangerous -- John Lloyd * Financial Times *An essential read for liberals. In among its many graphs and reports of surveys are a series of salutary reminders of how easily the idea of a threat from strangers can become a dominant political issue. You may not agree with Kaufmann, but you have to deal with him -- David Aaronovitch * The Times *An explosive book -- Robbie Millen * The Times Books of the Year *A monumental study of ethno-demographic change and the rise of populism across the rich world. . . ranges far beyond Brexit and Britain and puts a parochial debate in a much bigger context * Economist *A very substantial book with important things to say about identity, migration, populism and other questions of the moment. . . One of the best aspects of Kaufmann's book is its optimism -- Michael Burleigh * Literary Review *An insightful study of demographic change in the US, UK, Canada, Europe and Australia -- Munira Mirza * Daily Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisMalise Ruthven tackles the polemic and stereotypes surrounding this complex phenomenon - one that eludes sim today, a conclusion impossible to ignore since the events in New York on September 11 2001. But what does ''fundamentalism'' really mean? Since it was coined by American Protestant evangelicals in the 1920s, the use of the term ''fundamentalist'' has expanded to include a diverse range of radical conservatives and ideological purists, not all religious. Fundamentalism could now mean both militant Israeli settlers as well as the Islamist radicals who oppose them, it can mean Christians, Hindus, animal liberationists, and even Buddhist nationalists. Ruthven investigates fundamentalism''s historical, social, religious, political, and ideological roots, and tackles the polemic and stereotypes surrounding this complex phenomenon - one that eludes simple definition, yet urgently needs to be understood. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewStimulating. * Roger Hardy, New Statesman *Review from previous edition 'Ruthven's careful analysis of the phenomena ... provides a much-needed mental map [from] one of today's most perceptive observers and historians of religion.' * Guardian *'...powerful stuff ... this book is perceptive and important.' * Observer *This is a gentle, civilised book, written with some style. I enjoyed reading it. * Sasthi Brata, Spectator 10/04/2004 *The first clear definition of this indispensable yet misused term. * Anoush Ehteshami, University of Durham *... an important contribution to the current political and cultural debates about Islam and the West, religious extremism, and the changing identity of supposedly secular societies. * R. Scott Appleby, University of Notre Dame *Table of Contents1. Family Resemblances ; 2. The Scandal of Difference ; 3. The Snares of Literalism ; 4. Controlling Women ; 5. Fundamentalism and Nationalism I ; 6. Fundamentalism and Nationalism II ; 7. Conclusion ; Further reading

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Book SynopsisThroughout history, states have tried to create the perfect combatant with superhuman physical and cognitive features that are akin to those of comic book superheroes. However, the current innovations have nothing to do with the ones from the past and their development goes beyond a simple technological perspective. On the contrary, they are raising the prospect of a human enhancement revolution that will change the ways with which future wars will be fought and may even profoundly alter the foundations upon which our modern societies are built on. This book, which discusses the full ethical implications of these new technologies, is a unique contribution for students and scholars who care about the morality of warfare.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 Conceptual clarifications: distinguishing capacity-restoring and capacity-increasing technologies2 The moral obligation of soldiers’ enhancement research3 Military capacity-increasing technologies and their consequences 4 The ethics of developing capacity-increasing technologies5 Permanent capacity-increasing technologies and the transhumanist danger Conclusion Index

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewValelly's book is well-written and of use to a lay audienceinterested in a few basic facts about the history of Americangovernment with a brief discussion of contemporary government. * Jessica Andersson-Hudson, Political Studies Review *Table of ContentsList of illustrations ; Preface ; Chapter 1: Elements of American democracy ; Chapter 2: The presidency ; Chapter 3: Congress and its bicameralism ; Chapter 4: The legislative-executive process ; Chapter 5: The Supreme Court ; Chapter 6: Bureaucracy ; Chapter 7: Public opinion ; Chapter 8: Political parties and democratic choices ; Chapter 9: The partisan revival ; Chapter 10: Political economy ; References ; Further reading ; Index

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Book SynopsisIn politics, money is often the name of the game. Politicians enrich themselves while in office, spend campaign money to finance their re-election, and accept lucrative ''golden parachute'' jobs after leaving office. Money in Politics argues that these different forms of capital are part of a common system and should be analyzed in a single framework. The book advances a comparative theory that shows how self-enrichment, campaign spending, and golden parachute jobs are connected to each other. This theory explains when and how money enters politics, ultimately illuminating that a change in one form affects the other types and revealing the consequences this has for democracy. The book uses a wide range of evidence from countries around the world, including causally identified quantitative studies, qualitative cross-national comparisons, and original survey experiments. Enlightening and instructive, this book shows that we can only fully comprehend the role of money in politics when we Table of Contents1. Introduction; 2. Types of Money in Politics; 3. The System of Money in Politics; 4. The Connection between Self-Enrichment and Campaign Spending; 5. The Connection between Campaign Spending and Golden Parachute Jobs; 6. The System of Money in Politics in Comparative Perspective; 7. Consequences for Democracy; 8. Evolving the Conversation about Money in Politics.

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Book SynopsisIntegrating theory and case studies, this cogent text explores the processes and factors that shape foreign policy. In her thoroughly revised and updated edition, Laura Neack considers both old and new lessons, drawing on a rich array of real foreign policy choices and outcomes. In new cases, Neack explores decision making in the Eurozone crisis, increasing nationalism in Germany and Japan and what seems to be growing bellicosity among Canadians, Obama's grand strategy and the responses of rising powers Brazil and India, and the Egyptian youth revolution. Following a levels-of-analysis organization, the author considers all elements that influence foreign policy, including the role of leaders, bargaining, national image, political culture, public opinion, the media, and nonstate actors.Table of ContentsChapter 1: Introduction: The New Foreign Policy Chapter 2: Rational Actors and National Interests Chapter 3: Cognitive Misers and Distrusting Leaders Chapter 4: Decision Units, Small Groups, and Autonomous Groups Chapter 5: National Self-Image, Culture, and Domestic Institutions Chapter 6: Domestic Politics Chapter 7: Public Opinion and Media Chapter 8: Great Powers in General, the United States Specifically Chapter 9: Competitors, Rising Powers, and Allies Chapter 10: Conclusion: A Nested Game with Many Players

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Book SynopsisWhy do international actors, including powerful states, often fail to develop clear foreign policies and instead adopt indecisive, ‘muddling-through’ approaches? This book develops a concept and a theory of reluctance in world politics. Applying it to the study of regional crisis management by leading powers, it finds that reluctance emerges when governments fail to devise clear foreign policy preferences and face competing international pressures. The study of reluctance in world politics sheds new light on some of the most pressing problems of our time, from weak crisis management to cooperation deficits in global governance.Table of Contents1. Introduction 2. Conceptualizing Reluctance 3. Theorizing Reluctance in World Politics 4. India’s Reluctant Crisis Management in South Asia 5. Germany’s Mixed Approach: Not Always a Reluctant Hegemon 6. Brazil’s Non-Reluctant Approach to Regional Crisis Management 7. Explaining Reluctance in Other Contexts 8. Conclusion

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Book SynopsisFrom the founder of Simple Politics comes a guide to rediscovering the heart of our democracy, reshaping our political system and making the UK a better place for all. Strikes across the country. A prime minister resigning after just forty-four days. Accusations of bullying in the House of Commons. Our politics and our democracy appear to be fundamentally broken. But that doesn’t mean that all hope is lost. Things can get better. There are solutions out there to the complex web of failure in which we’re currently entangled. Politics, But Better will look at the very fabric of our system and what improvements can be made. Exploring twenty-six issues in UK politics, from A to Z – including censorship, elections, insults and U-turns – it clearly lays out the problems and challenges we face, and puts forward possible solutions. Looking at a variety of ideas and real-world examples, it will encourage us to rethink the fundamental ways we do things, to question the status quo, and to chart a path towards a more hopeful future. Respect and understanding are at the heart of this book, promoting open debate, tolerance and compassion as the cornerstones of a reformed political landscape. Politics is about improving the world – and we can do better.Trade Review'Most books on politics aren’t an easy read…this is! That’s how it should be, no hiding behind big words, we all need to understand it.' Vicky McClure ‘A calming voice in a world of shouty politics and distracting polarisation … The reason and hope the world needs right now!’ Tom Allen, comedian, on Simple Politics ‘I have no clue about politics - I find it messy, confusing and frustrating. This book came along, breaking things down simply and humanly to make me see that politics can be about hope.’ Rose Ayling-Ellis

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Book Synopsis''Riveting; as fresh and relevant today as it was almost 50 years ago. The words fire off the page with humour, anger and eloquence'' GuardianA powerful and commanding account of the life of trailblazing political activist Angela DavisEdited by Toni Morrison and first published in 1974, An Autobiography is a classic of the Black Liberation era which resonates just as powerfully today. It is reissued now with a new introduction by Davis, for a new audience inspired and galvanised by her ongoing activism and her extraordinary example.In the book, she describes her journey from a childhood on Dynamite Hill in Birmingham, Alabama, to one of the most significant political trials of the century: from her political activity in a New York high school to her work with the U.S. Communist Party, the Black Panther Party, and the Soledad Brothers; and from the faculty of the Philosophy Department at UCLA to the FBI''s list of the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives.Told with warmth, brilliance, humour, and conviction, it is an unforgettable account of a life committed to radical change.Trade ReviewThere are books you should read, books that you will enjoy reading, and books that will educate you. Rarely does one book do all three. The Autobiography of Angela Y. Davis is one of those books -- Marcus Ryder[A] rare book that even almost 50 years later feels timely and relevant. Maybe too relevant, considering how little has changed in the interim * Los Angeles Times *She has eyes in the back of our head. With her we can survive and resist -- John BergerDavis's arguments for justice are formidable. . . The power of her historical insights and the sweetness of her dream cannot be denied * The New York Times *Angela Davis has stood her ground on every issue important to the health of our people and the planet. It is impossible to read her words or hear her voice and not be moved to comprehension and gratitude for our incredible luck in having her with us -- Alice Walker

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Book SynopsisBuilding on his enormously successful first edition, Tom Nichols confirms his thesis that events, such as the COVID pandemic, prove that the assault on expertise has only intensified.Fully updated chapters continue to address how technology and increasing levels of education have exposed people to more information than ever before. These societal gains, however, have also helped fuel a surge in narcissistic and misguided intellectual egalitarianism that has crippled informed debates on any number of issues. Over the past several years, the rise of populism and conspiracy theories have taken this to new levels. All voices, even the most ridiculous, demand to be taken with equal seriousness, and any claim to the contrary is dismissed as undemocratic elitism.Tom Nichols'' The Death of Expertise, Second Edition, follows up on how this rejection of experts has occurred: the openness of the internet, the emergence of a customer satisfaction model in higher education, the transformation of th

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Book SynopsisSunday Times Smart Thinking Book of the Year 2022 New York Times Bestseller WINNER OF THE GLOBAL POLICY INSTITUTE AWARD BOOKS OF THE YEAR: Financial Times, The Times, Esquire, Prospect''When one of the world''s leading scholars of civil war tells us that a country is on the brink of violent conflict, we should pay attention. This is an important book'' Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt, authors of How Democracies DieCivil wars are the biggest danger to world peace today - this book shows us why they happen, and how to avoid them.We are now living in the world''s greatest era of civil wars. While violence has declined worldwide, major civil wars are now being fought in countries including Iraq, Syria and Libya, and smaller civil wars are being fought in India and Malaysia. Even countries we thought could never experience another civil war - such as the USA, Sweden and Ireland - are showing signs of unrest. So how can we stop them?In How Civil Wars Start, acclaimed expert Professor Barbara F. Walter, who has advised on political violence everywhere from the CIA to the U.S. Senate to the United Nations, explains the rise of civil wars and the conditions that create them - not least when countries are not quite democratic. As democracies across the world backslide and citizens become more polarised, civil wars will become even more widespread and last longer than they have in the past - but this urgent and important book shows us a path back toward peace.Trade ReviewWhen one of the world's leading scholars of civil war tells us that a country is on the brink of violent conflict, we should pay attention . . . This is an important book -- Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt, authors of How Democracies DieAn absorbing guide ... this book performs a valuable service * Sunday Times *How Civil Wars Start is a stop sign for us. What an imperative book for our time. Read and act -- Ibram X. Kendi, author of How to Be an AntiracistA bracing manual . . . . Indispensable -- Financial TimesLike those who spoke up clearly about the dangers of global warming decades ago, Walter delivers a grave message that we ignore at our peril -- David Remnick * The New Yorker *Polemical and essential -- James A. Robinson, co-author of Why Nations FailA vivid, compelling book on a globally vital issue. Timely, important and original -- Professor Richard English, author of Does Terrorism Work? A HistoryBarbara F. Walter has drawn on decades of experience and unparalleled expertise to write a powerful and indispensable book. How Civil Wars Start brilliantly illuminates the history of civil wars and the profound dangers to our union today, serving as both a warning about the stakes in our politics and a call to action for those who want to preserve multiethnic democracy and the values that America is supposed to stand for -- Ben Rhodes, author of After the Fall

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Electoral autocracies regimes that adopt democratic institutions but subvert them to rule as dictatorships have become the most widespread, resilient and malignant non-democracies today. They have consistently ruled over a third of the countries in the world, including geopolitically significant states like Russia, Turkey, Venezuela, Egypt, Indonesia, Nigeria and Pakistan. Challenging conventional wisdom, Popular Dictators shows that the success of electoral authoritarianism is not due to these regimes'' superior capacity to repress, bribe, brainwash and manipulate their societies into submission, but is actually a product of their genuine popular appeal in countries experiencing deep political, economic and security crises. Promising efficient, strong-armed rule tempered by popular accountability, elected strongmen attract mass support in societies traumatized by turmoil, dysfunction and injustice, allowing them to rule through the ballot box. Popular Dictators argues that this cris

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Book SynopsisTrade Reviewthis thoughtful polemic... is clear, punchy and... convincing... their breezy, no-nonsense guide is packed with excellent advice - a plea for expertise rather than feeling, for pragmatism rather than ideology and for listening rather than shouting. -- Christina Patterson * Sunday Times *Two of the most thoughtful economists writing today ... Collier and Kay are interesting on almost every subject they alight upon. -- Richard Reeves * Literary Review *Written by two of the UK's best economists, the book attacks the solipsistic individualism that permeates modern economics and far too much of modern society. The book's animating idea is that humans are first and foremost social animals. Our successes always depend on co-operation. The authors apply this concept to our economic, social and political institutions, which can, they argue, only be revived by being seen as self-sustaining communities. -- Martin Wolf * Financial Times Books of the Year *Their analysis is pitiless and compelling. This is a fine, incisive polemic. -- Clement Knox * Telegraph *In a provocative but thought-provoking and nuanced argument, Collier and Kay argue that our culture of hyper-centralisation is choking us. -- Books of the Year * Daily Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisEarly Americans were suspicious of centralized authority and executive power. Casting away the yoke of England and its king, the founding fathers shared in this distrust as they set out to pen the Constitution. Weighing a need for consolidated leadership with a demand for states'' rights, they established a large federal republic with limited dominion over the states, leaving most of the governing responsibility with the former colonies. With this dual system of federalism, the national government held the powers of war, taxation, and commerce, and the ability to pass the laws necessary to uphold these functions. Although the federal role has grown substantially since then, states and local governments continue to perform most of the duties in civil and criminal law, business and professional licensing, the management of infrastructure and public services: roads, schools, libraries, sanitation, land use and development, and etc. Despite the critical roles of state and local governments, there is little awareness-or understanding-of the nature and operations of the federal system. This Very Short Introduction provides a concise overview of federalism, from its origins and evolution to the key events and constitutional decisions that have defined its framework. Although the primary focus is on the United States, other federal systems, including Brazil, Canada, India, Germany, Russia, South Africa, Switzerland, and the EU, are addressed.Table of ContentsList of illustrations Preface 1: American federalism in comparative perspective 2: Federalism, American style 3: The evolution of federalism in law 4: What state and local governments do 5: Fiscal federalism 6: Advantages and disadvantages of federalism 7: Federalism in the world Conclusion: An American model for the world? References Index

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Book SynopsisThe Internet of Things (IoT) is the notion that nearly everything we use, from gym shorts to streetlights, will soon be connected to the Internet; the Internet of Everything (IoE) encompasses not just objects, but the social connections, data, and processes that the IoT makes possible. Industry and financial analysts have predicted that the number of Internet-enabled devices will increase from 11 billion to upwards of 75 billion by 2020. Regardless of the number, the end result looks to be a mind-boggling explosion in Internet connected stuff. Yet, there has been relatively little attention paid to how we should go about regulating smart devices, and still less about how cybersecurity should be enhanced. Similarly, now that everything from refrigerators to stock exchanges can be connected to a ubiquitous Internet, how can we better safeguard privacy across networks and borders? Will security scale along with this increasingly crowded field? Or, will a combination of perverse incentives, increasing complexity, and new problems derail progress and exacerbate cyber insecurity? For all the press that such questions have received, the Internet of Everything remains a topic little understood or appreciated by the public.This volume demystifies our increasingly smart world, and unpacks many of the outstanding security, privacy, ethical, and policy challenges and opportunities represented by the IoE. Scott J. Shackelford provides real-world examples and straightforward discussion about how the IoE is impacting our lives, companies, and nations, and explain how it is increasingly shaping the international community in the twenty-first century. Are there any downsides of your phone being able to unlock your front door, start your car, and control your thermostat? Is your smart speaker always listening? How are other countries dealing with these issues? This book answers these questions, and more, along with offering practical guidance for how you can join the effort to help build an Internet of Everything that is as secure, private, efficient, and fun as possible.Trade ReviewThe Internet of Things will be a driving economic, political, and cultural, force throughout this century. Shackelford does an excellent job of introducing readers to the many facets and implications of this technology, from how they communicate to how they challenge the global digital ecosystem. Essential reading for anyone who needs to understand our hyperconnected future. * Bruce Schneier, Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School and author of Click Here to Kill Everybody *Scott Shackelford's latest book provides an essential contribution to the vital discussion about the impact of technology on society. With reader-friendly prose, he carefully walks readers through the many cybersecurity and privacy issues that arise as we become more dependent on the Internet of Things. Rather than merely outlining the problems that we face, Shackelford presents pragmatic and well-reasoned legal and policy solutions. The Internet of Things is a must-read for policymakers, the business community, and anyone who is concerned about the future of cybersecurity. * Jeff Kosseff, author of The Twenty-Six Words That Created the Internet and Cybersecurity Law *Table of ContentsPreface Chapter One: Cyber-What? Chapter Two: Welcome to the Internet of Everything Chapter Three: Securing Everything: Deep Dives in Internet of Things Security Chapter Four: Governing the Internet of Everything Chapter Five: Analogizing Internet of Everything Security Chapter Six: How Can We Do Better? Finding Cyber Peace in the Internet of Everything Conclusion Notes References Index

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsAcknowledgments Preface Introduction: From the Pipeline to the Polity Chapter 1 The Who, When, What, and Where of Submissions and Publications Chapter 2 The Who, When, What, and Where of Teaching Chapter 3 The Institutional Context: Universities, Departments, and Families Chapter 4 Advice Networks and Coauthorship Chapter 5 Disposed to Publish or Teach? Exploring the Role of Personality Chapter 6 The Publication Pipeline Chapter 7 The Tweeting Polity: Mediated Public Engagement and Academic Research Chapter 8 It Takes a Polity to Raise a Publication: Peer Reviewing and Academic Citizenship Conclusion Appendix A Appendix B References

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Book SynopsisCHOICE Outstanding Academic Title, 2022 To better understand current events and threats, this book outlines the organizations and beliefs of domestic terrorists in the United States and how to counter their attacks on American democracy. Who are the American citizensWhite nationalists and militant Islamistsperpetrating acts of terrorism against their own country? What are their grievances and why do they hate? How can this transnational peril be effectively addressed? Homegrown Hate is a groundbreaking and deeply researched work that directly compares White nationalists and militant Islamists in the United States. In this timely book, scholar and holistic justice activist Sara Kamali examines these Americans' self-described beliefs, grievances, and rationales for violence, and details their organizational structures within a transnational context. She presents compelling insight into the most pressing threat to homeland security not only in the United States, but in nations across Trade Review"Eerily prescient. . . . Kamali rebuts the idea that 'lone wolves' drive terrorism and focuses on a comparative analysis of the White nationalist and militant Islamist groups that can drive it. She examines their aims, beliefs, tactics, rhetoric, organizational structures, and influencers, such as the Oath Keepers, Osama bin Laden, Dylann Roof, neo-Nazis, and Timothy McVeigh." * Kirkus Reviews *"The literature on White nationalists and militant Islamists gains an important new entry examining the reasons for acts of terrorism perpetrated by American citizens against the United States. . . . Homegrown Hate's comparative approach allows for a nuanced and complex discussion which not only puts religion at the center of the analysis, but is clear in its assertion that to reduce the activity of terrorists solely to religious motivations ignores the interplay of various social and political factors, reminding the reader that even those who share these corrupted beliefs do not engage in acts of terrorism." * Ethnic and Racial Studies * "Overall, Homegrown Hate is a valuable up-to-date resource not only for scholars and policymakers but for anyone who is looking to gain an in-depth understanding of current security threats and political violence facing the United States and many other countries around the world. . . . The book is a significant contribution to the field- deeply informative and written in an engaging manner." * European Center for Populism Studies *"A must-read for students, academics, journalists and, in particular, policy-makers and actors in security bureaucracy, who are interested in White nationalism, domestic terrorism and counterterrorism in the USA." * Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations *"Homegrown Hate is a model of innovative scholarship. . . . Readers interested in a new perspective on the topic of religion and white nationalism will appreciate her work, as well those interested in media, comparative social movements, and religion and criminology. Finally, those seeking new models of scholarship will find Kamali’s approach to surfacing similarities between two groups who see themselves in a cosmic battle to be an invigorating challenge to how studies of religion are often done." * Reading Religion *"Homegrown Hate is disturbing, yet it is one of the most important new books detailing domestic extremists available today." * CHOICE *"An incisive study. . . . For anyone interested in the full complexities of homegrown hate and case studies that highlight the problems and principles within each movement, the book is highly recommended." * Populism *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction. Empathizing with the Enemy: The Threat Within Part One. Who They Are 1. The Fourteen Words: The Racist Beliefs of White Nationalists 2. Loyalty and Disavowal: The Exclusionary Ideology of Militant Islamists Part Two. Why They Fight 3. #WhiteGenocide: Grievances of White Nationalists 4. The Crusades Redux: Grievances of Militant Islamists Part Three. What They Want 5. (RA)HOWA: (Re)Claiming the United States through (Racial) Holy War 6. America the Beautiful: Establishing a White Ethnostate or Constructing a Caliphate 7. Encouraging the End of Days: The Apocalyptic Rhetoric of Political Violence 8. The Myth of the Lone Wolf: Joining Virtual Packs Online Part Four. What Can Be Done Conclusion. Securing the Homeland: Counterterrorism and the Need for Holistic Justice Notes Selected Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisTHE MUST-READ GUIDE TO THE TRADE WAR'A smart, vivid and humane account of the way the world really works' TIM HARFORD 'This is the book to read if you want to understand what might be about to hit the world economy' EVAN DAVISThe dangerous race for self-sufficiency has begun. Be warned. Nations are turning away from each other. Faith in globalisaton has been fatally undermined by the pandemic, the energy crisis, surging trade frictions and swelling great power rivalry. A new vision is vying to replace what we've known for many decades. This vision - Exile Economics - entails a rejection of interdependence, a downgrading of multilateral collaboration and a striving for greater national self-sufficiency. The supporters of this new order argue it will establish genuine security, prosperity and peace. But is this promise achievable? Or a seductive delusion? Through the stories of globally traded commodities - from silicon to steel and from soybeans to solar panels - economics journalist Ben Chu illustrates the intricate web of interdependence that has come to bind nations together - and underlines the dangers of this new push to isolationism. Exile Economics is an essential guide to this new world in all its promise and peril.

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Book SynopsisYoung Arabs are too often reduced to the figures of the potential terrorist, the migrant or the exotic icon of the revolution. But the reality is much richer.Coming from both sides of the Mediterranean, the researchers in this book travel off the beaten track by exploring how young Arabs spend their free time. The case studies take in a wide range of countries, including Morocco, Egypt, Syria, Iraq and Saudi Arabia, and all manner of activities, from football to rap music, café culture to sex work. Drawn with sensitivity and humour, Arab youths presents an exceptional portrait of a generation that is much talked about but rarely listened to.This book gives a voice to young men and women who, as heirs of plural traditions, animated by new ideas and influenced by various cultural movements, are inventing the future of their societies in the midst of radical change.Table of ContentsPreface: Arab youth inside out – François BurgatGeneral introduction: deconstructing stereotypes: interwoven trajectories of young Arabs – Laurent Bonnefoy and Myriam CatussePart I: Living in the presentIntroduction: living in the present – Laurent Bonnefoy and Myriam Catusse1 ‘Go ahead, burn your tyres!’: the lust for life of Saudi joyriders– Pascal Ménoret2 ‘Just watching the time go by’: the ‘hittists’ of Algeria – Loïc Le Pape3 Coffee shops and youth sociability in Abu Dhabi– Laure Assaf4 From TV soaps to web dramas: a new platform for young Arabs – Yves Gonzalez-Quijano5 The Buyat: subverting gender norms in Saudi Arabia – Amélie Le Renard6 From Jihad to Sufi ecstasy: politico-religious trajectories in pre-revolutionary Syria – Thomas Pierret7 The Faculty of Education of Lab‘us: salafism as a student subculture in Yemen – Laurent Bonnefoy8 ‘A man, a real man!’: Halima, a woman rebel in Gafsa (Tunisia) – Amin Allal9 Long-distance supporters: Barca and Real fans in Palestine – Abaher El Sakka10 Commentary in Arabic... or in Tigrinya? Football fans and the search for free television broadcasting – Mahfoud Amara and Laurent BonnefoyPart II: Rooting the futureIntroduction: rooting the future – Laurent Bonnefoy and Myriam Catusse11 Drinking in Hamra: youthful nostalgia in Beirut? – Nicolas Dot-Pouillard12 The end of a world? Shifting seasons in Lejnan (Algeria) – Mohand Akli Hadibi13 Finding Baghdad: young people in search of ‘normality’ – Zahra Ali and Laurent Bonnefoy14 Two brothers: family and hospitality in Al-Karak (Jordan) – Christine Jungen15 In Massada Street’s coffee shops: the ambiguous social mix of the Palestinians of Israel in Haifa – Mariangela Gasparotto16 In the shade of the Khayma: cultural and political resistance of the young Sahrawis at Dakhla – Victoria Veguilla Del Moral17 Recreation, re-creation, resistance: what roles for dabké in Palestine? – Xavier Guignard18 Taranim and videos: the Egyptian Church stripped bare by its children? – Laure Guirguis19 ‘My identity is becoming clear like the sun’: theatre in the Shiite schools of Lebanon – Catherine Le ThomasPart III: Constructing oneselfIntroduction: constructing oneself – Laurent Bonnefoy and Myriam Catusse20 ‘A room of one’s own’: young people in search of privacy – Anne-Marie Filaire21 A different way of being a young woman? Self-defence in Cairo – Perrine Lachenal22 Chewing alone? The transformations of Qat consumption in Yemen – Marine Poirier23 Gulf holiday-goers in Europe: five-star family favourites – Claire Beaugrand24 In SOS Bab el Oued: rappers and rockers between integration and transgression – Layla Baamara25 Leaving the camp: the wanderings of young Palestinian refugees in Lebanon – Nicolas Puig26 ‘Rainbow Street’: the diversity, compartmentalization and assertion of Youth in Amman (Jordan) – Cyril Roussel27 Brahim: autopsy of a suicide in Kabylia – Kamel Chachoua28 “Bnat lycée dayrin sexy”: from fun to sex work in Tangier (Morocco) – Mériam CheikhPart IV: Speaking OutIntroduction: speaking out – Laurent Bonnefoy and Myriam Catusse29 ‘A bad day for Ammar’: when Tunisian bloggers took on internet censorship – Romain Lecomte30 A new social world? Young Syrian activists and online social networks – Enrico De Angelis31 Stand up: Saudi Youth take the floor... on YouTube! – Yves Gonzalez-Quijano32 The café in Jadu: a place for ‘revolutionary’ emancipation in Libya – Arthur Quesnay33 From consumerism to political engagement: young ‘Sunnis’ in Bahrain react in ‘defence of their country’ (2011–12) – Claire Beaugrand34 When walls speak: revolutionary street art in Yemen – Anahi Alviso-Marino35 Art under occupation: ‘The Young Artist of the Year’ (Palestine) – Marion Slitine36 ‘The instinct of rap’: Palestinian rap, political contents and artistic explorations – Nicolas Puig37 Rocking in Morocco: the new urban scene in Casablanca – Dominique Caubet and Catherine Miller38 Alexandrians in fusion: trajectories of Egyptian musicians from alternative milieux to the revolution – Youssef El ChazliIndex

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Book SynopsisThe latest book in the long-running Britain at the Polls series provides an indispensable account of the fascinating 2017 British general election. It explains why the Conservatives lost their parliamentary majority and how Theresa May returned at the head of a minority government. Leading experts analyse the Conservatives’ record in government, May’s fateful decision to call an early election, Labour’s shift to the left under Jeremy Corbyn, the Liberal Democrats’ ongoing problems, the collapse in UKIP’s vote share, the SNP’s diminished appeal in Scotland, and the role of gender and electoral integrity in the 2017 campaign. The book also addresses broader questions about the future of British politics against the backdrop of the 2016 Brexit referendum and ongoing austerity. Its coverage and accessible style make it of interest to general readers, students of British politics and professional political scientists.Trade Review‘None past the post features a distinguished set of contributors, who ably parse out the factors that shaped the surprising 2017 general election. This coherent, accessible and lively volume provides essential reading that will interest students of British party politics, election campaigns, and voting behaviour.’James Adams, University of California at Davis‘This book provides the authoritative, sophisticated and accessible account that is called for by the most extraordinary election of our recent history. Each chapter is a model of careful, focused analysis and finely judged interpretation. An election’s significance requires an appreciation both of numbers and of history. None past the post does this superbly.’Sir Ivor Crewe, University College, Oxford ‘The authors tell the story of the 2017 general election in rich, compelling detail. The twists and turns of British politics and British voting behaviour are captured with the right balance, explanation and evidence to offer an illuminating, fascinating and accessible record of one of the most intriguing periods in British political history.’Jane Green, University of Manchester‘The result of Britain’s 2017 general election was, with little doubt, one of the most dramatic and unexpected in modern British history. This latest contribution to the long-running Britain at the Polls series shines a clear light on what happened. The book is sure to become a benchmark in our understanding of this most unusual of elections.’Charles Pattie, University of Sheffield‘As an American attempting to make sense of the electoral instability characterizing recent US elections, I benefited from reading the efforts of British scholars to make sense of theirs. While there are major institutional dissimilarities between our two countries and some major trends are moving in opposite directions, there are important points of political contact as well. American scholars will profit from expanding their foci and digesting these analyses of their British colleagues.’Morris P. Fiorina, Stanford University -- .Table of ContentsPreface 1 Gambling with the electorate: The Conservatives in government - Nicholas Allen2 Revolt on the left: Labour in opposition - Thomas Quinn3 The Liberal Democrats: remaining in the doldrums - John Curtice4 The rise and fall of UKIP, 2010–17 - Paul Whiteley, Matthew Goodwin and Harold D. Clarke5 Squeezing the SNP: the election in Scotland - Robert Johns6 From Thatcher to May and beyond: women in British politics - Meryl Kenny7 Electoral integrity and post-truth politics - Sarah Birch8 Why the Conservatives lost their majority – but still won - John Bartle9 A coalition of chaos: where next? - Rosie CampbellAppendix: results of British general elections, 1945–2017

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Book SynopsisThis book offers a crash course in contemporary Russian politics. An updated version of the bestselling 2016 edition, it explores the decline in western relations since the early 2000s, from the disagreements over European security and the war in Syria right up to the invasion of Ukraine. -- .

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Book SynopsisThis collection proposes a novel contribution to counterterrorism studies by challenging Eurocentrism and methodological nationalism in existing approaches. It explores how colonial epistemes shape everyday practices of counterterrorism. -- .

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Book SynopsisThis is the first comparative study of the distinctive literatures and cultures that have developed in Wales, Scotland, England and Northern Ireland since political devolution in the late 1990s, especially surrounding Brexit. The book argues that in conceptualising their cultures as ‘national’, each nation is caught up in a creative tension between emulating forms of cultural production found in the others to assert common aspirations, and downplaying those connections in order to forge a sense of cultural distinctiveness. The author explores the resulting dilemmas, with chapters analysing the growth of the creative industries; the relationship between UK City of Culture and its forerunner, the European Capital of Culture; national book prizes in Britain and Europe; British variations on Nordic Noir TV; and the Brexit novel. With regard to separate cultural precursors and responses in each nation, Brexit itself is debated as a factor that has widened their differences, placing the future of the UK in question.Table of ContentsList of Illustrations Introduction: Compatriots or Competitors? Chapter 1: From Counter Culture to Creative Industries Chapter 2: The Cultural Capital of Capitals of Culture Chapter 3: Imaging Northern Europe: British Varieties of Nordic Noir Chapter 4: Aspiration by Proxy: National Book Awards in International Markets Chapter 5: Brexit and Beyond Afterword: Brexit and Coronavirus References

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Book SynopsisA contrarian yet highly engaging account of the spread of illiberal and anti-democratic sentiment throughout our culture that places responsibility on the citizens themselves.Over the past three decades, citizens of democracies who claim to value freedom, tolerance, and the rule of law have increasingly embraced illiberal politicians and platforms. Democracy is in trouble--but who is really to blame?In Our Own Worst Enemy, Tom Nichols challenges the current depictions of the rise of illiberal and anti-democratic movements in the United States and elsewhere as the result of the deprivations of globalization or the malign decisions of elites. Rather, he places the blame for the rise of illiberalism on the people themselves. Nichols traces the illiberalism of the 21st century to the growth of unchecked narcissism, rising standards of living, global peace, and a resistance to change. Ordinary citizens, laden with grievances, have joined forces with political entrepreneurs who thrive on the creation of rage rather than on the encouragement of civic virtue and democratic cooperation. While it will be difficult, Nichols argues that we need to defend democracy by resurrecting the virtues of altruism, compromise, stoicism, and cooperation--and by recognizing how good we''ve actually had it in the modern world.Trenchant, contrarian, and highly engaging, Our Own Worst Enemy reframes the debate about how democracies have ended up in this dire state of affairs and what to do about it.Trade ReviewWhile democracy does battle with other political ideologies * fascism, communism, socialismits most difficult battle is always with itself, the inherent contradiction that is both its greatest strength and most glaring vulnerability. The challenges we face in the 21st century are of a different magnitude, but rooted in this central truth: Democracy takes work. Tom Nichols' outstanding book is where we begin.Ian Bremmer, President and Founder of Eurasia Group and GZERO Media *Maybe it's not imaginary conspiracies but rather our own failures * moral, intellectual, politicalthat are leading Americans to support incompetent, inarticulate and even authoritarian politicians. That's the thesis that Tom Nichols argues amusingly and persuasively in this book before concluding that reform must begin from within.Anne Applebaum, staff writer for The Atlantic, and author of Twilight of Democracy *Nichols has nailed the problem that ails our democracies * and it is us: The narcissism, self-indulgence and nostalgia that come from a society in which the depth of our pockets are matched by the shallowness of our minds. Nichols neither gives into despair nor falls for simplistic solutions. He offers a wise, acute and unblinking measure of our failingsand the glimpse of a way out.Edward Luce, S national editor and columnist, Financial Times, and author of The Retreat of Western Liberalism *The eloquent jeremiad, that brilliant form of lamentation, is alive and well in the able hands of Tom Nichols. You don't have to agree with him on everything to appreciate his deep commitment to liberal democracy, his horror in the face of authoritarian demagoguery, and his call on democratic citizens to embrace knowledge and virtue. Nichols is that rarest of creatures, a happy scold who believes that deep down, even we terribly flawed human beings are capable of aspiring to higher purposes. * E. J. Dionne Jr, author of Code Red: How Progressives and Moderates Can Unite to Save Our Country *Taking freedom and democracy for granted is a fatal mistake. Our Own Worst Enemy explains why even the greatest nation on Earth isn't immune to the destructive effects of cynicism and ignorance. It is both a history lesson and a sharp examination of painful recent events. The forces of illiberalism are on the rise, and it's not clear that liberal democracy is up to the challenge. This book makes the essential case that ignoring politics is a luxury the citizens of the free world can no longer afford. Being a successful chessplayer requires understanding yourself and your own decision-making process. As Tom Nichols demonstrates in Our Own Worst Enemy, it turns out that's also required to be a successful country. America has enough enemies without turning on itself. * Garry Kasparov, Chairman of the Renew Democracy Initiative, author of Winter Is Coming: Why Vladimir Putin and the Enemies of the Free World Must Be Stopped, and the former world chess champion *There are few silver linings to the monstrous transformation of the American right: one has been discovering the stalwart minority of decent, intelligent, honest conservatives who fiercely and absolutely reject the party of Trump * such as Tom Nichols. Our Own Worst Enemy is his thoughtful and thought-provoking diagnosis of our urgent democratic crises, which provided me the important pleasure of enjoying, learning from, and arguing with it.Kurt Andersen, author of Evil Geniuses and Fantasyland *Nichols provides bleak but thought-provoking analysis... Our Own Worst Enemy is a blistering critique of twenty-first-century American politics. * Foreword Reviews *A searing critique of contemporary political culture and the rise of illiberalism on both the right and the left. * Publishers Weekly *A strong argument for civic reengagement. * Kirkus *Into this [political] morass parachutes Tom Nichols, with a meditation on the state of American democracy. * The Guardian *Table of ContentsPreface Introduction: Our Own Worst Enemy 1. A Hunger for Apocalypse: The Perils of Peace and Plenty 2. The Nicest People You'll Ever Dislike: When Good Neighbors Are Bad Citizens 3. "Is There No Virtue among Us?" Democracy in an Age of Rage and Resentment 4. System Failure? Human Suffering and the Case against Liberal Democracy 5. Hello, I Hate You: How Hyper-Connection Is Destroying Democracy Conclusion: Is There a Road Back? Notes Index

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Book SynopsisAfghanistan, a landlocked country in Central Asia, has improbably been at the center of international geopolitics for four decades. After the Soviet Union invaded in 1980, Afghanistan descended into an unending conflict that featured at various points most of the world''s major powers. In the mid-1990s, the country entered a new phase, when the Taliban took power and imposed order based on a harsh, repressive version of Islamic law. Infamously, the sheltered Osama bin Laden, whose attack on 9/11 Towers ushered in the Global War on Terror, drew tens of thousands of American troops to the country, where they remain today.In Afghanistan: What Everyone Needs to Know, leading scholar Barnett R. Rubin provides an overview of this complicated nation. After providing a concise history of Afghanistan, he explores the various peoples and cultures of the country and its relations with neighbors like Pakistan and Iran. He also provides an authoritative overview of the conflicts that have plagued tTrade ReviewIt speaks to everyone. It provides new lessons on Afghanistan as well as the stakeholders engaged in the post-war state-building. * Hafizullah Nadiri, South Asia Journal *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Abbreviations Afghanistan Map Chapter 1: Afghanistan Seen by Others Chapter 2: The Land and the People Chapter 3: State and Politics Chapter 4: Communist Coup, Islamic Resistance Chapter 5: Civil War: Islamic State to Islamic Emirate Chapter 6: 9/11, International Intervention, and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Chapter 7: Reconstruction and Development Chapter 8: Narcotics and Counter-Narcotics Chapter 9: More War, Insurgency, and Counterinsurgency Chapter 10: Peace or More War? Co-Author Biographies Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisAs the crisis of democratic capitalism sweeps the globe, The Great Retreat makes the controversial argument that what democracies require most are stronger political parties that serve as intermediaries between citizens and governments. Once a centralizing force of the democratic process, political parties have eroded over the past fifty years. Parties now rank among the most unpopular institutions in society--less trusted than business, the police, and the media. Identification with parties has plummeted, and even those who are loyal to a party report feeling that parties care more about special interests than about regular citizens. What does a good political party look like? Why do we urgently need them? And how do we get them?The Great Retreat explores the development of political parties as democracy expanded across the West in the nineteenth century. It focuses in particular on mass parties, and the ways they served as intermediaries that fostered ties between citizens and governments. While parties have become professionalized and nationalized, they have lost the robust organizational density that made them effective representatives. After the Cold War, a neoliberal economic consensus, changes to campaign finance, and shifting party priorities weakened the party systems of Western democracies. As Didi Kuo argues, this erosion of political parties has contributed to the recent crisis of democratic capitalism, as weak parties have ceded governance to the private sector.For democracy to adapt to a new era of global capitalism, Kuo makes the case that we need strong intermediaries like mass parties--socially embedded institutions with deep connections to communities and citizens. Parties are essential to long-term democratic stability and economic growth, while the breakdown of party systems, on the other hand, has historically led to democratic collapse. As trust in political parties has plummeted, The Great Retreat provides a powerful defense of political parties--for without parties, democratic representation is impossible.

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Book SynopsisOffers an analysis of worldwide democratic institutions. Examining thirty-six democracies during period from 1945 to 2010, the author arrives at important - and unexpected - conclusions about what type of democracy works best.Trade Review"Magnificent... The best-researched book on democracy in the world today." (Malcolm Mackerras, American Review of Politics) "I can't think of another scholar as well qualified as Lijphart to write a book of this kind. He has an amazing grasp of the relevant literature, and he's compiled an unmatched collection of data." (Robert A. Dahl, Yale University) "This sound comparative research... will continue to be a standard in graduate and undergraduate courses in comparative politics." (Choice)"

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“An Illuminating account.”—Tony Barber, Financial Times, “Books of the Year 2018”“For a greater understanding of Scotland and Catalonia within a wider crisis of mainstream politics, this thought-provoking book is an ideal place to start.”—Donald MacRaild, THES“A pioneering and scrupulously even-handed comparative history.”—The Economist“Nobody writing in English knows more about early modern Spain than Elliott. . . . I rejoice at the depth of context this book brings to two highly unpredictable political situations.”—Jerry White, Irish Times“Scots and Catalans is a stimulating history book, but most of all it is a political polemic. It aims to show how the two independence movements are based on false interpretations of history.”—Michael Eaude, Catalonia Today“John Elliott has written a book that is both topical and timeless.”—Luis Fernández-Galiano, Arquitectura Viva“Lucid and well-reasoned book.”—David Gilmour, Literary Review“Elliot’s elegant prose and clear observations bring life to this remarkable book.”—Stephen Jacobson, English Historical ReviewFinalist in the 2019 Los Angeles Times Prizes, History category“J. H. Elliott is a superb guide through the complexities of Catalan and Scottish history. With a deft touch and lucid prose he fully demonstrates the great value of historical comparison for understanding present conditions in both societies.”—Professor Emeritus Sir Tom Devine, University of Edinburgh“Rarely has a work of comparative history been so timely and newsworthy. J. H. Elliott’s learned comparative study of the long-term trajectories of Scotland and Catalonia is a reliable guide to the current travails of the nation-state in Western Europe. Elliott cogently explains the background to the phoenix-like revival of long-submerged historic nations within both the UK and Spain.”—Colin Kidd, author of Union and Unionisms: Political Thought in Scotland, 1500–2000 and British Identities before Nationalism: Ethnicity and Nationhood in the British Atlantic World, 1600–800“An excellent, detailed, properly comparative study that foregrounds the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding in modern constitutionalism.”—Murray Pittock, University of Glasgow“J. H. Elliott’s new book offers a deeply considered and timely perspective on the attempts of the Scottish and Catalan nationalist movements to secure independence. Written with all his customary elegance and incisiveness, it is authoritative in its historical assessments and notably fair-minded in its examination of controversial issues. Scots and Catalans provides the essential starting point for anyone who wishes to understand the problems currently besetting both London and Madrid on their northern periphery.”—Professor Hamish Scott, FBA, All Souls College, Oxford“The similarities and contrasts between Scotland and Catalonia throw many fundamental aspects of Scottish history into sharp relief. The result is not only a masterful exercise in comparative history. It is also a compelling account of British history from a Scottish perspective, and a superb introduction to Scottish history itself.”—Dauvit Brown

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Book SynopsisBritain may have its problems but those who argue the EU is doing better are seeing a fantasy. In reality, the EU has all of Britain's problems - and more.

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