Elections and referenda / suffrage Books

Book SynopsisLakoff researches how framing influences reasoning, or how the way we say something often matters much more than what we say. the Guardian Over a quarter of a million copies sold worldwide! Ten years after writing the definitive, international bestselling book on political debate and messaging, George Lakoff returns with new strategies about how to frame today’s essential issues. Called the “father of framing” by The New York Times, Lakoff explains how framing is about ideas – ideas that come before policy, ideas that make sense of facts, ideas that are proactive not reactive, positive not negative, ideas that need to be communicated out loud every day in public. The revised edition picks up where the original book left off – delving deeper into how framing works, how framing has evolved in the past decade, how to speak to people who harbor elements of both progressive and conservative worldviews, how to counter propaganda and slogans, and more. The ALL NEW Don’t Think of an Elephant! will make you reconsider everything you think you know about framing: Do you think facts alone can win a debate? Do you know what makes a Tea Party follower tick? Do you understand how to communicate on key issues that can improve people's lives? Whether you answer yes or no, the insights in The ALL NEW Don’t Think of an Elephant! will not only surprise you, but also give you the tools you need to develop frames that work, and eradicate frames that backfire.Trade Review"Lakoff single-handedly convinced liberals of the importance of language in winning political battles. Now he's back to finish what he started."--Markos Moulitsas, founder and publisher, Daily Kos"The All New Don't Think of an Elephant! is an indispensable tool for progressives—packed with new thinking on framing issues that are hotly debated right now, and new insights on how to reclaim the political debate on meaningful terms that can yield true progress, not just political gains."--Jennifer M. Granholm, former governor of Michigan"When the original Don't Think of an Elephant! came out in2004, Lakoff showed us that progressive Democrats voted on values, not issues—just like the right. Now, Dr. Lakoff is back to prevent a relapse of bad framing. The ALL NEW Don't Think of an Elephant! is a must read, every bit as important as the first edition. This time we have to train ourselves to think for the long term. Buy this book, memorize it, and teach it to your children. Progressives may be smart, but we don't communicate our ideas well. This book is the blueprint for how to do better."--Howard Dean, former chair of the Democratic National Committee and founder of Democracy for America

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Book SynopsisLONGLISTED FOR THE ORWELL PRIZE 2018 SUNDAY TIMES, GUARDIAN, TELEGRAPH AND ECONOMIST BOOKS OF THE YEAR 2017''A provocative take on the UK''s new tribal divisions ... a book whose timing is pitch-perfect'' Andrew MarrMany Remainers reported waking up the day after the Brexit vote feeling as if they were living in a foreign country. In fact, they were merely experiencing the same feeling that many British people have felt every day for years. Fifty years ago, people in leafy North London and people in working-class Northern towns could vote for a Labour party that broadly encompassed all of their interests. Today their priorities are poles apart. In this groundbreaking and timely book, Goodhart shows us how people have come to be divided into two camps: the ''Anywheres'', who have ''achieved'' identities, derived from their careers and education, and ''Somewheres'', who get their identity from a sense of placTrade ReviewGoodhart offers an impeccably sensible and decent exposition of how the political elites have failed their societies ... The book makes compelling reading both for voters and those who want to get elected by them -- Max Hastings * The Sunday Times *[Goodhart] has written a book that is thoughtful, well argued and dangerously moderate. It may even be an incitement to independent thinking * The Times *[A] provocative take on the UK's new tribal divisions ... And it broadly works ... The Road to Somewhere has the feel of a book whose timing ... is pitch-perfect -- Andrew Marr * New Statesman *Goodhart's exploration of this underlying divide -- and the question of what might be done -- is not only timely but also offers an accessible, evidence-based and direct account of how these conflicts are reshaping the political world around us -- Matthew Goodwin * Financial Times *Goodhart has clarity of argument and courage. He has been making these points for a decade and urging the mainstream to engage with them. He does not do fads * Observer *Whatever other objections Goodhart's new book might provoke, few could call it irrelevant or untimely ... he returns to this most vexed terrain, picking his way through nettles and thorns that might deter thinner-skinned writers -- Jonathan Freedland * The Guardian *[Goodhart] has written what may turn out to be the most sympathetic and insightful book about Britain's discontented masses -- Toby Young * The Spectator *Mr Goodhart's book seems likely to inform the debate on what post-Brexit Britain should look like * The Economist *This meticulously researched book ... enables us to imagine Brexit as a moment that could just prove to be the start of a national renewal * Prospect *Challenging and illuminating -- Will HuttonDavid Goodhart offers the best and most complete explanation I've seen for why things seem to be coming apart in so many countries at the same time -- Jonathan Haidt, author of 'The Righteous Mind'

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Book SynopsisJake Tapper (Author) Jake Tapper is the chief Washington correspondent for CNN. An Emmy Award-winning TV journalist and twice New York Times-bestselling novelist, in 2024 he chaired the TrumpBiden debate that began the unravelling of the president's re-election campaign. A Dartmouth graduate and Philadelphia native, he lives in Washington, DC with his family.Alex Thompson is a national political correspondent for Axios and a CNN contributor. Before that, he created Politico's West Wing Playbook newsletter and worked at the New York Times and Vice News. A Harvard graduate, he lives in Washington, DC.

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Book SynopsisLying on a riverbank on a lazy summer’s afternoon – 23rd June 2016, to be precise – Alice spots a flustered-looking white rabbit called Dave calling for a referendum. Following him down a rabbit-hole, she emerges into a strange new land, where up is down, black is white, experts are fools and fools are experts...She meets such characters as the Corbynpillar, who sits on a toadstool smoking his hookah and being no help to anyone; Humpty Trumpty, perched on a wall he wants the Mexicans to pay for; the Cheshire Twat, who likes to disappear leaving only his grin, a pint, and the smell of scotch eggs remaining; and the terrifying Queen of Heartlessness, who’ll take off your head if you dare question her plan for Brexit. Will Alice ever be able to find anyone who speaks sense?

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Book SynopsisThe Sunday Times bestseller. 'A compulsively readable, carefully researched account of how a malignant combination of rightwing ideology, secretive money (much of it from the US) and weaponisation of social media have shaped contemporary British (and to a limited extent, European) politics... Remarkable' Observer, Book of the Week Democracy is in crisis, and unaccountable and untraceable flows of money are helping to destroy it. This is the story of how money, vested interests and digital skulduggery are eroding trust in democracy. Antiquated electoral laws are broken with impunity, secretive lobbying is bending our politics out of shape and Silicon Valley tech giants collude in selling out democracy. Politicians lie gleefully, making wild claims that can be shared instantly with millions on social media. Peter Geoghegan is a diligent, brilliant guide through the shadowy world of dark money and digital disinformation stretching from Westminster to Washington, and far beyond. Praise for Democracy for Sale: 'Thorough, gripping and vitally important' Oliver Bullough 'A brilliant description of the dark underbelly of modern democracy. Everyone should read it' Anne Applebaum 'A compelling and very readable story of the ongoing corruption of our government and therefore ourselves' Anthony Barnett 'As urgent as it is illuminating' Fintan O'Toole 'This urgent, vital book is essential reading for anyone who wants to make sense of our politics' Carole Cadwalladr 'This forensic and highly readable book shows how so many of our democratic processes have moved into the murky, unregulated spaces of globalisation and digital innovation' Peter Pomerantsev 'A call to arms for all those who value democracy' The Herald 'Geoghegan's words are those of someone who is prepared to keep fighting to defend and revitalise what shadows of democracy still remain'ScotsmanTrade ReviewDemocracy for Sale forensically exposes the fault lines in our politics, and reveals how they have been exploited by the rich and the powerful to further their own interests -- Oliver Bullough, author of MoneylandForensic and highly readable -- Peter Pomerantsev, author of This is Not PropagandaAs urgent as it is illuminating' Fintan O -- Toole, author of Heroic FailureA compelling and very readable story of the ongoing corruption of our government and therefore ourselves -- Anthony Barnett, author of Iron BritanniaA brilliant description of the dark underbelly of modern democracy: dark money, influence games and the new tactics of the new far-right. Everyone should read it -- Anne Applebaum, author of GulagPeter Geoghegan's investigations into Brexit have been essential reading. Now this urgent, vital book is essential reading for anyone who wants to make sense of our politics -- Carole CadwalladrInvestigative journalist and Big Issue contributor Peter Geoghegan has followed the money to uncover the story of how undisclosed donations have infiltrated British politics, undermining public faith in democracy and fuelling the rise of populism across the West * Big Issue *Peter Geoghegan's absorbing and disturbing new book is a call to arms for all those who value democracy... [It is] meticulously researched and highly readable' -- HeraldA damning insight into the dark money which underpins huge areas of global politics... A dispiriting read, exposing a rot which seems to have spread throughout politics across the western world and whose stranglehold appears to be growing. This is was makes it so vital... Geoghegan's words are those of someone who is prepared to keep fighting to defend and revitalise what shadows of democracy still remain' * Scotsman *A fine book. It's a compulsively readable, carefully researched account of how a malignant combination of rightwing ideology, secretive money (much of it from the US) and weaponisation of social media have shaped contemporary British (and to a limited extent, European) politics... [A] remarkable book' * Observer. *Its lucid and compelling narrative explores the likes of disinformation, propaganda, and the way in which technology's rapid evolution renders legislative and regulatory frameworks redundant. At the heart of it all, of course, is money, and Geoghegan offers a perceptive analysis of how the US and British systems differ, and how they compare * Scotsman *We are only at the beginning of understanding how the 21st-century confluence of opaque money, extreme politics and digital technology has frayed our democracy. This book is an important part of that process. We are a long way from having viable solutions, but we owe a debt to relentless journalists like Geoghegan for starting the work of rooting out the source of stench before it overwhelms us * irish Times Weekend *A shocking story of how money, vested interests and digital skulduggery are eroding trust in democracy – and a powerful account of what must be done about it * Irish Times Weekend *[Democracy for Sale] should be the most discussed political book of the year. It is by turns balanced, authoritative, revelatory and scandalous. As the web and unsourced money twist elections, the subject could not be more urgent * Observer *A damning insight into the dark money which underpins huge areas of global politics... Enlightening and alarming... Geoghegan's words are those of someone who is prepared to keep fighting to defend and revitalise what shadows of democracy still remain' * Scotsman *A very timely treatise on what technology allied to dark money can achieve. Released last year in print, it is only just available on audio with author Peter Geoghegan doing a fine job of narrating * Irish Examiner *Excellent * National *Solidly investigative and highly readable * New Internationalist *I urge people to read it and reflect * National *This is what you've been waiting for if you want a clear, jargon-free, exhaustively detailed and wonderfully readable book that explains the bizarre nature of British 'democracy' and the farce that is 'The Mother of all Parliaments'. It's no exaggeration to say that Peter Geoghegan's remorseless analysis [...] is among the very finest guides to the Cayman Islands-on-the-Channel that the UK is becoming * Chartist *

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Book SynopsisIn politics, there are no prizes for second place. Luckily, seasoned campaign professionals Mark Pack and Edward Maxfield have distilled successful electoral tactics from around the globe into 101 bite-sized lessons to help steer you on the course to power. Learn how to pass the three-seconds test, why you should actually embrace online trolls, and why you must never, ever, forget the law of the left nostril. Packed with advice and practical tips, this new, fully updated third edition of the classic political guide reveals the insider secrets and skills you need to make sure you're in pole position on election day.Trade Review"This is a wonderful guide to the practical business of running and winning election campaigns - a series of short essays full of good sense and great sayings to inspire, motivate and make you think. Mark and Ed have produced an entertaining and useful handbook for anyone interested in how democracy works - and now they've produced a new, improved edition that is even better." - John Rentoul, The Independent "This indispensable how-to guide - crammed as it is with inspirational quotes, practical wisdom and plenty of evidence of what works in the real world - won't necessarily guarantee you victory, but it could significantly increase your chances! A must-read (as well as a fun read) for all campaigners." - Tim Bale, professor of politics, Queen Mary University of London "This book is a must-read for any campaigner or politico regardless of experience. It is full of interesting anecdotes as well as the latest research and best practice from around the world. I have used its wisdom at every step of my career. If you're interested in winning elections this is the book for you!" - Layla Moran MP

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Book SynopsisThe unmissable inside story of the most dramatic general election campaign in modern history and Theresa May?s battle for a Brexit deal, the greatest challenge for a prime minister since the Second World War.All Out WarTrade Review'The doyen of … high-class gossip is … Shipman, whose All Out War was last year’s bestselling guide to the referendum campaign. Its sequel takes up where that left off … Shipman’s books are fast becoming classics … It’s testament to the rigour of [his] research that the book doesn’t feel dated despite the speed at which events at Westminster have moved since it went to press' Gaby Hinsliff, Guardian ‘This extraordinary book … reads like a roaring farce … jam-packed with fresh, illuminating details … Shipman’s writing has admirable clarity and drive … For anyone who wants to relive the past year… this book is a must’ Craig Brown, Mail On Sunday ‘All Out War was the best political book published … last year … its triumphant sequel … is even better’ Alex Massie, Spectator ‘Gripping … If journalism is the "first rough draft" of history, then Shipman is the master of the second, tidied up, version of events … A mixture of political thriller, psychological analysis and campaign diary, this is a page-turner for anyone interested in politics’ Rachel Sylvester, The Times ‘Readers who enjoyed the lucid prose and unrivalled access that made the first book such a treat will love its sequel’ New Statesman ‘Shipman … a major-domo with a notebook in his waistcoat pocket … bends over backwards to be fair … It is crammed with detailed description and the transcribed thoughts of those who were there when the key decisions were taken’ Andrew Marr, Sunday Times ‘Excellent … engrossing … a witty phrase-maker … Shipman does a fine job of making sense of the period since the Brexit referendum … illuminating’ Andrew Rawnsley, Observer ‘Of books explaining this peculiar time, the most keenly awaited comes from Tim Shipman … he returns to his role as the chief biographer of Brexit with a worthy sequel’ Sebastian Payne, Financial Times ‘It carries on from his first book, All Out War and is just as good … I can’t give his books any higher praise than that’ Iain Dale, LBC

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Book SynopsisSamuel Popkin applies his extensive experience with presidents and presidential campaigns to provide a lively, extensively researched story of the contemporary Republican Party. He shows how reforms intended to take corporate money out of political parties ended up crippling party leadership, rendering them unable to cope with a new political landscape. In their stead, the machinations of billionaires pursuing pet issues and "purity for profit" activists thrived. AsPopkin lays bare, party rebels such as Ted Cruz exploited these forces to block immigration and healthcare reform, opening the door for Trump's election.Trade ReviewWhat the hell happened to the GOP? Is something just as destructive in store for the Democratic Party? The answers Popkin offers-part post-mortem, part prescription - are as shrewd as they are urgent. * Jill Lepore, author of These Truths *Crackup brilliantly confirms why Popkin is one of the most respected political observers of our time. Not only a keen, precise explanation of how Washington unraveled, this is a thrilling examination of overlooked decisions and hidden dramas. I started highlighting the text and gave up because every page is overflowing with insights, analysis, and detail. This book is permanently installed on my desk. * Evan Osnos, Staff Writer, The New Yorker *Popkin performs two distinct and important services in his book. First, in a thoughtful narrative with which I agree completely, he provides a much-needed corrective to the failure to understand the critical omnipresence of well-functioning political parties to the success of democratic government. Second, he provides a logical, well-argued explanation of why the system is malfunctioning with which I differ, and which I welcome. * Barney Frank, former member of the US House of Representatives *Popkin writes with verve and good humor, knows a whole lot about politics, and is gifted at mobilizing a good story to make a point. If you are like me, you will disagree with him in fundamental ways but still appreciate the ride Popkin takes you on - and know you'd enjoy arguing with him late into the night. * E.J. Dionne Jr, author of Code Red *Popkin, one of the nation's foremost scholars of elections, has written an indispensable book explaining the conflicts within the Republican Party that led to the election of Trump. No one is better equipped to describe this history of collapse, and he does so with rigor and grace. * Thomas B. Edsall, Contributing Opinion Writer, The New York Times *Popkin's brilliant book could not be more timely. Crackup masterfully diagnoses the descent of the Republican Party from 'comity to carnage,' while reminding us that no political party is immune to the dynamics of breakdown. * Sarah Binder, Professor, George Washington University *Popkin artfully traces the financial consequences of McCain-Feingold and Citizens United. He has written an important book on an important topic and it should be read by anyone interested in contemporary American politics. * Mathew D. McCubbins, Professor, Duke University *Table of ContentsIntroduction Chapter One: The Last Republican President Chapter Two: Young Guns and Billionaires Chapter Three: Ted Cruz Crashes the Party Chapter Four: The Great Wall of Mexico Chapter Five: Strongmen Don't Pivot Chapter Six: The Republicans Pivot Chapter Seven: Conclusion--What Can Be Done? Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE ORWELL PRIZE 2017#1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLERThe best political book of the year' Andrew MarrA superb work of storytelling and reporting. Sets new benchmark for the writing of contemporary political history' GuardianThe only book to tell the full story of how and why Britain voted to leave the EU.This is the acclaimed inside story of the EU referendum in 2016 that takes you behind the scenes of the most extraordinary episode in British politics since the Second World War.With unparalleled access to all key players, this is a story of calculation, attempted coups and people torn between principles and loyalty. It is a book about our leaders and their closest aides, the decisions they make, how and why they make them and how they feel when they turn out to be so wrong.In All Out War, Tim Shipman has written a political history that reads like a thriller, exploring how and why David Cameron chose to take the biggest political gamble of his life, and why he lost.Trade Review‘I can't imagine a more even-handed or better sourced, all points-of-view account of the biggest story in British politics since WWII … A fine book’ ANDREW MARR, Sunday Times 'Shipman's dispatches are a must read if you want to understand what happened beneath the smog and beyond the noise of the conflict’ NICK ROBINSON ‘Shipman is brilliantly qualified to write the inside story of the referendum, with his unrivalled access to all the players’ JOHN RENTOUL ‘One of the best political journalists of his era … It’s impossible to fully comprehend what happened on June 23 and the ensuing two weeks without reading this book … Brilliant’ IAIN DALE, LBC ‘Shipman’s book is by far the best. It is a detailed, often pitch-perfect account that delivers the tale with an infectious sense of human drama – no mean feat, given the task of completing the whole thing so quickly’ JOHN HARRIS, New Statesman ‘The essential account … Shipman has spoken to every key individual to produce the definitive first draft of history, a comprehensive yet impartial study of how Brexit won’ Financial Times ‘Excellent … Shipman convincingly marshals fresh evidence to prove what we already half-knew’ WILL HUTTON, Observer ‘The best political book of the year was undoubtedly Tim Shipman’s masterly ‘All Out War’’ New Statesman ‘Stonkingly good: if you’re vaguely interested in politics buy it. It won’t be bettered’ FRASER NELSON ‘Thorough, comprehensive and utterly gripping. It is hard to imagine a better first draft of history’ Economist ‘Undoubtedly the British political book of the year’ ALEX MASSIE ‘Shipman, one of the most brilliant, best informed and well-connected journalists in Westminster, has written a superlative book which does full justice to a momentous time’ PETER OBORNE ‘Don’t think any of the quotes do justice to quite how good it is. A superb work of reporting and storytelling, and sets new benchmark for the writing of contemporary political history’ ANDREW SPARROW

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Book SynopsisTHE INSTANT SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER?''Meticulously sourced, merciless and revelatory. It is a closely observed study of power, and how it is gained, used and lost'' FINANCIAL TIMESThe unmissable next instalment of Tim Shipman's #1 bestselling Brexit quartet.To follow his bestselling books All Out War and Fall Out, this book launches off from 2017 to offer an unflinching, unfiltered account of some of the most turbulent years of British politics.In the company of all the key players and with countless never-before-revealed insights, No Way Out traces the unprecedented disasters and triumphs of Theresa May's tenure. Spun with characteristic wit and wisdom, Shipman tells the story of May's three great negotiations first, with her cabinet, then with the EU and finally with parliament and chronicles her fall in thrilling detail.This is the ultimate insider narrative to three of the most turbulent and impactful years of government, revealing the strategies, gambles, mistakes, mindsets and

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Book SynopsisUntil the Brexit referendum, there was widespread doubt as to whether English nationalism existed at all, at least beyond a small fringe. Since then, it has come to be regarded an obvious explanation for the vote to Leave the European Union. Subsequent opinion polls have raised doubts about the extent of continuing English commitment to the Union of the United Kingdom itself. Yet even as Englishness is apparently reshaping Britain''s place in world and perhaps, ultimately, the state itself, it remains poorly understood.In this book Ailsa Henderson and Richard Wyn Jones draw on data from the Future of England Survey, a specially commissioned public attitudes survey programme exploring the political implications of English identity, to make new and original arguments about the nature of English nationalism.They demonstrate that English nationalism is emphatically not a rejection of Britain and Britishness. Rather, English nationalism combines a sense of grievance about England''s place within the United Kingdom with a fierce commitment to a particular vision of Britain''s past, present, and future. Understanding its Janus-faced nature - both England and Britain - is key not only to understanding English nationalism, but also to understanding the ways in which it is transforming British politics.Trade Review... excellent new book... full of insight, and with a clarity not always present in the work of social scientists - leaves the reader in no doubt as to the growing strength of English identify... * The Daily Telegraph *An essential read for anyone interested in nationalism and the future of the union (or in understanding Brexit). * Andrew Sparrow, The Guardian *Scrupulously researched and scholarly book. * Tunku Varadarajan, Wall Street Journal *What makes the crisis of British politics so strange is that at its heart is a force that dare not speak its name: Englishness. It is at once extremely potent and hard to articulate, strongly felt but poorly understood. The work of Ailsa Henderson and Richard Wyn Jones has been crucial to the mapping of this previously murky territory and Englishness is a superb overview of the evidence they have gathered so meticulously and weighed so carefully. The English world view so subtly and intelligently probed here has consequences far beyond its own borders. No one who wants to understand those consequences can do without this terrific book. * Fintan O'Toole, The Irish Times *Lucid and heavily detailed. * David Kernek, Irish Examiner *...the authors of this book take a mature and balanced approach to what is a highly significant yet somewhat neglected issue....a work of fundamental importance... could prise open many closed minds. If the left is going win back millions of people, as it needs to, we clearly need to talk about England. * Brian Denny, Morning Star *The rise of Englishness, and its impact on British constitutional politics, has for too long been an under-explored, semi-secret, phenomenon: a spectre that dare not speak its name. But it has profound implications for the future of the United Kingdom. This book should be read by anyone — and especially every politician — who wishes to understand the forces driving British politics to its current febrile, fractured, state. It is more than an important book, it is a necessary and overdue one. * Alex Massie, The Spectator and The Sunday Times *The best book on Scottish politics that I have read in a long time. This is not as paradoxical as it sounds: it explores the inextricable tangles of Englishness, Britishness and Scottishness. It is impressive both for the sharpness of its analysis and the solidity of its empirical foundations, based on extensive social surveys carried out for the Future of England Survey. * Dennis Smith, Scottish Review *...remarkably coherent, factual and on occasion, severely to the point... Englishness makes for vitally important, if not compulsive reading. * David Marx Book Reviews *The authors provide a convincing and eloquent explanation of this politicisation of Englishness... * Ben Wellings, Australian Book Review *This book provides fresh insight into the character of English nationalism, showing how it presents not only a distinctive vision of England's role within the UK but also of Britain's place within the world. This vision has already played a key role in bringing about Brexit - and it could now prove a decisive influence as Britain debates how to adapt to the post-Brexit, post-COVID world. * Sir John Curtice, Professor of Politics, University of Strathclyde *A fascinating and subtle study, which - precisely because so challenging - should be read with great attention by all those who hope to keep the United Kingdom united. * Tom Holland, historian, biographer, and broadcaster. Author of Rubicon: The Triumph and the Tragedy of the Roman Republic, and Dominion: The Making of the Western Mind *This book gives a compelling account of English nationalism, its motivations, and discontents. For anyone concerned about the future of the United Kingdom, this is essential reading. * Philip Rycroft, Former Head of the UK Governance Group in the Cabinet Office, and Former permanent secretary of the Department for Exiting the European Union *Englishness is not only a pioneering analysis of English nationalism but a vital source for understanding the origins of Brexit and the transformation of British politics in the last few years. It is certainly a book of the first importance. * Sir Tom Devine, Sir William Fraser Professor Emeritus of Scottish History and Palaeography, the University of Edinburgh *The politics of England and the UK have been transformed in the past 20 years. This book makes a powerful case that the politics of Englishness, a force largely overlooked by academics and commentators, has been at the heart of those changes. * John Denham, Professorial Fellow on English Identity and Politics, University of Southampton *Table of ContentsIntroduction: Englishness and the New British Politics 1: England Speaks: The 2015 UK General Election and the 2016 EU Referendum 2: On Englishness and Britishness 3: The English on England and the UK 4: The English on Britain in the World 5: The English World View 6: England, Scotland, and Wales Compared 7: Accommodating England 8: Analysing England

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Book SynopsisThe COVID-19 pandemic is reshaping our politics, economy and society, providing a chance to reset and redesign politics. Ali Milani brings a unique perspective to the key political issues we're facing and inspires a new generation of political leaders from the disenfranchised, disillusioned and marginalised in society.Table of ContentsForeword by John McDonnell Introduction: ‘Hope’ 1. ‘A great idea, but probably not for someone like me’ 2. ‘Every election has a story’ 3. ‘The imperfect candidate’ 4. ‘I think it’s safe to say, I was never supposed to be an MP’ 5. ‘Where are you really from?’ 6. ‘Running while broke’ 7. ‘This is big. Bigger than me’ 8. ‘The audacity to dream of change’

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Book SynopsisLarry Sabato, one of the leading experts in American politics, will bring together respected journalists and academics from across the political spectrum to examine every facet of the 2022 midterm election, and what its development and outcome will mean for the nation moving forward. In frank, accessible prose, each author offers insight that goes beyond the headlines, and dives into the underlying forces and shifts that drove the election from its earliest developments to its dramatic conclusion. Following Sabato’s introductory analysis, the contributors will provide a comprehensive review of everything in play during the 2022 midterms and look ahead to the 2024 presidential campaign. Table of ContentsPreface and acknowledgements 1. Another Confounding ElectionLarry J. Sabato2. Donald Trump and the Vanishing Red WaveAlan Abramowitz3. 2022 Primaries: Setting the Table for NovemberRhodes Cook4. Not Much But Good Enough: The GOP’s House TakeoverKyle Kondik5. The Senate: Sticking with the Devils They KnowJ. Miles Coleman6. Governors & State LegislaturesMary Frances McGowan7. The Red Ripple of Election DenialismCarah Ong Whaley8. A Year 0f High Turnout, New Rules, and Changes in How We Vote Grace Panetta9. How Overturning Roe versus Wade Hijacked the MidtermsNatalie Jackson10. Black Republicanism in the RedTheodore R. Johnson11. A Growing Political Force: Asian Americans in the 2022 ElectionEdward Berdan and Natalie Masuoka12. Mixed Signals from 2022’s Latino VoteMark Hugo Lopez13. Mainstream and Social Media in the Midterm ElectionsDiana Owen14. Emerging Campaign Finance Trends and Their Impact on the 2022 Midterm Election and BeyondMichael E. Toner and Karen E. Trainer15. So Why Wasn’t It a Wave?Sean TrendeAbout the Contributors

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Book SynopsisThe year is 1987. Having made history by becoming the UK's first female Prime Minister and then driving out the most left-wing manifesto the country has ever seen, Margaret Thatcher faces a climactic third election campaign. Her eight years in power have been pivotal in guiding the UK back onto the path towards prosperity, and as he surveys the scene, David Young, Secretary of State for Employment, can see the fragile seeds of Thatcher's government beginning to grow. But this third election threatens to destroy it all, plunging the nation back into the chaos of union militancy, the three-day week and the Winter of Discontent, when Britain ground to a halt and even the bodies lay unburied. Drafted in to run the campaign, Young knows one thing for certain: the country cannot afford to go back. Written in lucid, powerful prose, Young's remarkable diary of the election that set the UK on course for the next thirty years invites readers into the room with the key players, including the Prime Minister herself. Full of gut-wrenching claustrophobia, tension and paranoia, Inside Thatcher's Last Election reveals the personality clashes that threatened to derail the campaign from the beginning and presents a very different woman from the Thatcher we think we know. For those in the eye of the storm, there was little doubt about what was at stake: the future of Britain's enterprise.Trade Review'The exciting tale told in this book takes the reader into the eye of the storm.' - Charles Moore "I greatly enjoyed these diaries. It's not just a depiction of an important moment in political history; it's a brilliant description of what it is like working at the centre of a national election campaign. It brought it all back for me. If you haven't been there, this is the next best thing." - Daniel Finkelstein "A gripping fly-on-the-wall account of the Downing Street characters who drove enterprise to the centre of political thinking in Britain." - Sara Murray, founder of confused.com "Never before will you have read such an extraordinary, in-depth, unique insight into the intricate workings of Margaret Thatcher and her government. This day-by-day, moment-to-moment account of her third election victory comes not from a politician but from a leading entrepreneur and businessman who was instrumental in enabling Thatcher to transform Britain, the sick man of Europe, into one of the most pre-eminent enterprise nations in the world. British business owes a huge amount to David Young, and this book clearly demonstrates why. This is not a ringside view; this is being in the ring experiencing it blow by blow!" - Karan Bilimoria, president of the CBI

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Book SynopsisFew Americans and even fewer citizens of other nations understand the electoral process in the United States. Still fewer understand the role played by political parties in the electoral process or the ironies within the system. Participation in elections in the United States is much lower than in the vast majority of mature democracies. Perhaps this is because of the lack of competition in a country where only two parties have a true chance of winning, despite the fact that a large number of citizens claim allegiance to neither and think badly of both. Or perhaps it is because in the U.S. campaign contributions disproportionately favor incumbents in most legislative elections, or that largely unregulated groups such as the now notorious 527 organizations have as much impact on the outcome of a campaign as do the parties or the candidates'' campaigns. For instance, in two of the last six presidential elections, the winner of the popular vote lost the election in the Electoral College; in two others, a change of fewer than 100,000 votes in selected states would have led to the same result. These factors offer a very clear picture of the problems that underlie our much trumpeted electoral system.The third edition of this Very Short Introduction analyzes these issues and more. Accounting for changes in electoral coalitions and the extent to which the American electorate is polarized in the wake of Donald Trump, L. Sandy Maisel explains how the system actually works while shining a light on some of its flaws. He also looks closely at turnout questions; efforts both to ease access to the ballot in some states and to restrict access in others; and the role of social media in campaign strategy.Trade ReviewIt concentrates on the electoral system, presidential nominations, elections, criticisms of the system, and proposals for reform. It is a well-written, thorough synopsis of what is known about these topics and includes a useful list of sources for additional reading. * A. D. McNitt, CHOICE *...the section in this book about the Electoral College should be required reading for all citizens." - Ray Smock, Director of the Robert C. Byrd Center for Congressional History and EducationTable of Contents1 The context of American elections and political parties 2 A brief history of American political parties 3 Party organizations: What do they look like? What do they do? 4 Who are Republicans? Who are Democrats? Who are the "others"? 5 Presidential elections: Nominating campaigns and general elections 6 Subnational nominations and elections 7 Far from the perfect democracy References Further reading Index

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Book SynopsisThe hotly anticipated final book of bestselling author Tim Shipman's Brexit quartet. The Johnson Years to Rishi Sunak''Magnificent Pacy and packed with delicious details Shipman puts you in the room His analysis is sharp and full of insight For those seeking a moment-by-moment insider history it will not be topped'' FTHow did Boris Johnson supersede Theresa May to become Britain''s Prime Minister? How did he pursue his promise to Get Brexit Done amidst multiple Brexit secretaries, repeated coup attempts and reshuffles, and an extraordinarily terse relationship with Brussels? What really happened in Downing Street from the political choices to the party place settings as the pandemic took the world in its grip? Out follows from May''s resignation through to the tussles over the final Brexit deal, the government''s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and our shortest serving PM ever.If pre-Theresa May Westminster was largely obsessed with the clever idealism of The West Wing, marinated in the farce of The Thick of It, the parable of these years became Game of Thrones, the pseudo-medieval swords and shagging epic pitching warring factions against each other in the quest for the iron throne. At the centre of the action was Tim Shipman, chief political commentator for the Sunday Times, taking notes on the guts and gore and tears.Out is a riveting, rambunctious account of the most dramatic years in modern British politics.

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Book SynopsisEverything you need to know about Vote by Mail!Successful campaign manager and three-term mayor of Ashland, Oregon, Catherine Shaw presents the must-have handbook for navigating local campaigns. This clear and concise handbook gives political novices and veterans alike a detailed, soup-to-nuts plan for organizing, funding, publicizing, and winning local political campaigns. Finding the right message and targeting the right voters are clearly explained through specific examples, anecdotes, and illustrations. Shaw also provides in-depth information on assembling campaign teams and volunteers, canvassing, how to conduct a precinct analysis, and how to campaign on a shoestring budget. The Campaign Manager is an encouraging, lucid presentation of how to win elections at the local level.The sixth edition has been fully revised to include new and expanded coverage of contemporary campaign management-from digital ads and new social media tools to data-driven voter targeting tactics and vote by mail strategies.Trade ReviewAnyone running for a local elected office will find this title a valuable resource for organizing and running a campaign.Library JournalLocal office is where most candidates launch their careers, and The Campaign Manager is one of the books they should read before jumping in.Campaigns and Elections, "Ten campaign books everyone should read"I can't imagine anyone heading into the campaign trenches without a copy of The Campaign Manager!Daniel M. Shea, Colby CollegeA comprehensive guide to all aspects of modern campaigns, from strategy to understanding voter contact techniques, to fundraising, paid and earned media, to get-out-the-vote-drives.James A. Thurber, American UniversityPractical, witty, and fact-packed. This is the bible of campaign management.Les Aucoin, Former US Congressman from OregonArguably the most comprehensive, insightful, and useful compendium of local campaign wisdom ever assembled.Phil Keisling, Former Oregon Secretary of StateThinking of running for local office? Stop, and buy this book. It will tell you how to win, or at least what you must do if you want to win. Just as important, it will tell you when you are wise not to run.Mark Carl Rom, Georgetown UniversityShaw presents an excellent how-to guide for the prospective campaigner. From strategic orientation to voter targeting to media, Shaw provides a step-by-step process to getting a campaign off the ground.Chapman Rackaway, University of West GeorgiaShaw's book should be read by all persons interested in entering elective office at the local level. It is also an excellent supplementary text for a course on American political campaigns. One of its major strengths is the focus on local political campaigns, which are often overlooked when presidential and statewide elections are held. It is the definitive guide to campaigning at the local level.Raymond Scheele, Ball State UniversityQuite simply the best organizational tool for anyone seeking political office or working on an issue-based campaign.Mara Liasson, NPRTable of ContentsPreface How to Use This Handbook The Ten Commandments of Campaigning The Cardinal Sins of Campaigning 1. Precinct Analysis: The Sinners, the Saints and the Savables2. The Campaign Team and Volunteer Organization 3. The Campaign Brochure 4. Digital and Social Media5. Fundraising 6. Lawn Signs 7. Targeting Voters 8. Media 9. The Candidate 10. The Issue-Based Campaign 11. Getting Out the Vote (GOTV) 12. The Campaign Plan 13. After the Ball Afterword Notes Appendix A: Conducting a Precinct AnalysisAppendix B: Campaigning on a Shoestring

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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 SynopsisIn the Arena profiles 34 American leaders who captured their party’s nomination for the presidency, but never reached the Oval Office. Author Peter Shea tells of the rise, early career, campaign and later achievements of historical giants like Aaron Burr and Henry Clay, up through modern candidates Mitt Romney and Hillary Clinton. A foreword by 1988 candidate Michael Dukakis gives readers more personal insight into what it’s like to run for one of the most powerful positions in the world – and come up short. Photos of monuments and other memorials accompany each subject, along with campaign memorabilia, illustrating the legacy many of these candidates left behind after relinquishing their dreams of serving as President of the United States. In a speech that gave the book its name, President Theodore Roosevelt gave ultimate credit “to the man who is actually in the arena…who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” In the Arena honors, in words and pictures, their courage and sacrifices.Trade Review"Who knew losers could be so interesting? Fans of American history will find hours of engaging reading in this book." — Booklist"If you are a student of history, especially American History, you will love this book." — Kevin Eikenberry on Leadership & Learning

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Book SynopsisIn 2015, the New Democratic Party won an unprecedented victory in Alberta. Unseating the Progressive Conservatives-who had won every provincial election since 1971-they formed an NDP government for the first time in the history of the province.Orange Chinook is the first scholarly analysis of this election. It examines the legacy of the Progressive Conservative dynasty, the PC and NDP campaigns, polling, and online politics, providing context and setting the stage. It highlights the importance of Alberta's energy sector and how it relates to provincial politics with focus on the oil sands, the carbon tax, and pipelines.Examining the NDP in power, Orange Chinook draws on Indigenous, urban, and rural perspectives to explore the transition process and government finances and politics. It explores the governing style of premier Rachel Notley, paying special attention to her response to the 2016 For McMurray wildfire and to the role of women in politics.Orange Chinook brings together Alberta's top political watchers in this fascinating, multifaceted analysis.Trade Review"A useful baseline for considering the future of Alberta politics." -- Trevor Harrison, AlbertaViewsTable of Contents Preface I. Setting the Scene Introduction: Out of an Orange coloured Sky Richard Sutherland II. The Tory Fall and the NDP Victory Politics, Alberta Style: The Rise and Fall of the Progressive Conservatives, 1971-2015 David Taras Death of a Dynasty: The Tories and the 2015 Election Duane Bratt Ready for Rachel: The Alberta NDP's 2015 Campaign Melanee Thomas Marginally Better: Polling in the 2015 Alberta Election Janet Brown and John B. Santos Alberta Politics Online: Digital Retail Politics and Grassroots Growth, 2006-16 Peter Malachy Ryan III. Oil Sands, Carbon Tax, and Pipelines Betting on Bitumen: Lougheed, Klein, and Notley Gillian Steward The Politics of Alberta's Carbon Tax Kevin Taft Notley: The Accidental Pipeline Advocate Deborah Yedlin IV. The NDP in Power After Forty-Four Years: The Alberta New Democrats and the Transition to Government Keith Brownsey Fiscal Constraints on the Orange Chinook Ron Kneebone and Jennifer Zwicker Beyond the ""Lovey-Dovey Talk"": The Orange Chinook and Indigenous Activism Brad Clark Alberta's Cities under the NDP James Wilt The End of Exceptionalism: Post-rural Politics in Alberta Roger Epp V. Notley's Governing Style A League of Their Own: Alberta's Women Party Leaders Lori Williams Notley and the Beast: An Analysis of the Crisis Communication of Rachel Notley During the 2016 Wildfire Chaseten Remillard and Sheridan McVean VI. Alberta's Future Political System What's Past is Prologue: Ontario 1990 and Alberta 2015 Graham White Out of the Blue: Goodbye Tories, Hello Jason Kenney Anthony M. Sayers and David K Steward Appendices Index

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Book SynopsisJo Phillips and David Seymour guide the reader through the workings of government and Parliament and make a passionate case for the power of democracy. Their argument is that young people should take back control of the future, hold politicians to account and get involved.

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Book Synopsis'You see, if only they didn’t speak English in America, then we’d treat it as a foreign country – and probably understand it a lot better’‘the sanest man in America’ – Bill Bryson‘Jon Sopel nails it’ – Emily Maitlis**With a brand new chapter, charting Trump's first year in power**As the BBC’s North America Editor, Jon Sopel has had a pretty busy time of it lately. In the time it’s taken for a reality star to go from laughing stock to leader of the free world, Jon has travelled the length and breadth of the United States, experiencing it from a perspective that most of us could only dream of: he has flown aboard Air Force One, interviewed President Obama and has even been described as ‘a beauty’ by none other than Donald Trump.Through music, film, literature, TV and even through the food we eat and the clothes that we wear we all have a highly developed sense of what America is and through our shared, tangled history we claim a special relationship. But America today feels about as alien a country as you could imagine. It is fearful, angry and impatient for change.In this fascinating, insightful portrait of American life and politics, Jon Sopel sets out to answer our questions about a country that once stood for the grandest of dreams, but which is now mired in a storm of political extremism, racial division and increasingly perverse beliefs.Trade ReviewJon Sopel may be the sanest man in America. He is certainly one of the most insightful … Immensely enjoyable * Bill Bryson *Jon Sopel nails it … If Only They Didn’t Speak English is an entertaining and enlightening stock take of how we got here. * Emily Maitlis, Presenter, BBC Newsnight *A wonderfully readable, perceptive account of what America looks like today through the eyes of a seasoned, informed but ultimately sympathetic observer. He addresses head-on such difficult questions as why it is America's most God-fearing opponents of abortion who are also the most passionate supporters of the gun lobby and the death penalty. He reminds us that President Trump's "America First" policy is nothing new – but that America made an invaluable contribution to Western Europe's defence of its liberty in two world wars. And he describes graphically how US Presidential politics became Reality TV in 2016, leaving us, rightly, with a deep sense of unease about the way fake facts and bare-faced lies, often encouraged by enemies of democracy abroad, now pose a real threat to the survival of our values and institutions. Read it alongside the late, great Lynne Olson's Citizens of London and J.D. Vance's Hillbilly Elegy. * Sir Peter Westmacott, Former British Ambassador to the United States *Jon Sopel tries to explain the madness of Trump's America with an elegant sense of stoic bewilderment. Brilliant * Emma Kennedy, Actress, Writer and Broadcaster *

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Book Synopsis‘Beautifully told, this book brings a fascinating and compelling story to a wider public. A “must read” for those interested in women’s lives in the past.’ - June Purvis, Professor (Emerita) of Women’s and Gender History, University of Portsmouth, UK‘This important and absorbing book presents a unique history of Kitty Marshall. This is first-class history and a first-rate thriller.’ - Professor Clive Bloom, author of A History of Britain’s Fight for a RepublicKatherine ‘Kitty’ Marshall was destined to break with convention. Brought up in a socially active family, her inherent rebellious streak came into play in 1901, when she daringly divorced her husband and joined the newly founded Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU), campaigning for women’s suffrage.In 1904, she married solicitor Arthur Willoughby Marshall and the couple soon became a powerhouse team in the movement: Arthur defending the suffragettes in court while Kitty, trained in jujitsu and a member of the WSPU’s elite team ‘the Bodyguard’, helped her close friend Mrs Pankhurst evade the clutches of the authorities under the infamous Cat and Mouse Act. All the while, Kitty was under the watchful eye of the Metropolitan Police, and in particular Detective Inspector Ralph Kitchener, who frequently encountered the Marshalls in his work trailing the suffragette ‘mice’.Following events as they unfolded on both sides, Mrs Pankhurst’s Bodyguard is a gripping account of Kitty and Arthur’s incredible work and their fight for political equality.Trade Review'Godfrey tells the story with a keen eye for historical context and an innate understanding of the world that Kitty, her fellow suffragettes and the police who sought them inhabited.' -- All About History * All About History *'...Kitty was an unstoppable force, yet she has been largely forgotten. Acquaint yourself with her story in this gripping read.' -- This England * This England *

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Book SynopsisThis third volume in the Japan Decides series remains the premier venue for scholarly research on Japanese elections. Putting a spotlight on the 2017 general election, the contributors discuss the election results, party politics, coalition politics with Komeito, the cabinet, constitutional revision, new opposition parties, and Abenomics. Additionally, the volume looks at campaigning, public opinion, media, gender issues and representation, North Korea and security issues, inequality, immigration and cabinet scandals. With a topical focus and timely coverage of the latest dramatic changes in Japanese politics, the volume will appeal to researchers and policy experts alike, and will also make a welcome addition to courses on Japanese politics, comparative politics and electoral politics. Trade Review“Japan Decides 2017 is an excellent book for those who are interested in a snapshot of the most recent Japanese elections. As the third book in a series on Japanese election it is a valuable addition to our understanding of why the same party almost always wins in Japan.” (Ronald J Hrebenar, Party Politics, Vol. 26 (6), 2020)“The series is a boon for research and teaching, but should also prove useful for foreign policy professionals and political risk consultants. Indeed, anyone with an interest in Japanese politics would benefit from reading the invaluable Japan Decides 2017 and its companion volumes.” (Gregory W. Noble, Pacific Affairs, Vol. 93 (1), 2020)“I would highly recommend this book to experts and students alike. This new volume, and the whole series, is fast becoming central to the study of Japanese elections.” (Gill Steel, Japanese Journal of Political Science, Vol. 20 (2), June, 2019)Table of Contents

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Book SynopsisThe best, the fastest, the hippest and the most unorthodox account ever published of the US presidential electoral process in all its madness and corruption.In 1972 Hunter S. Thompson, the creator and king of Gonzo journalism, covered the US presidential campaign for Rolling Stone magazine alongside the establishment newsmen of Washington. The result is a classic piece of subversive reportage and a fantastic ride on the rollercoaster of Hunter's uniquely savage imagination. In his own words, written years before Watergate: It is Nixon himself who represents that dark, venal and incurably violent side of the American character almost every other country in the world has learned to fear and despise.'Trade Review‘The best stuff on the campaign I’ve read anywhere.’Nicholas Von Hoffman, Washington Post ‘Obscene, horrid, repellent … driving, urgent, candid, searing … a fascinating, compelling book!’New York Post ‘Hunter S. Thompson is the most creatively crazy and vulnerable of the New Journalists. His books are brilliant and honorable and valuable … the literary equivalent of Cubism: all rules are broken.’Kurt Vonnegut Jr ‘Gaze in awe … Hunter Thompson does in his own mad way betray a profound democratic concern for the polity. And in its own mad way, it’s darned refreshing.’New York Times ‘Shocks you into laughter.’Detroit Free Press ‘Unnerving!’Newsweek

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Book Synopsis''We women are roused. Now that we are roused, we will never be quiet again''Bringing together the voices of women who fought for equal rights and representation - from aristocrats and actresses to mill workers and trade unionists - these speeches, pamphlets, letters and articles form an inspiring testament to the power of a movement.One of twenty new books in the bestselling Penguin Great Ideas series. This new selection showcases a diverse list of thinkers who have helped shape our world today, from anarchists to stoics, feminists to prophets, satirists to Zen Buddhists.

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Book SynopsisJames K. Polk’s ascension to the White House was a pivotal moment in propelling the US towards civil war, and the 1844 election expanded the vigorous campaigning that had been growing since 1824. Mark Cheathem examines the transition from traditional political issues, such as banking and tariffs, to newer ones, like immigration and slavery.Trade Review"Who Is James K. Polk? is essential reading for every political junkie, for anyone interested in presidential campaigns, and for all who seek to understand antebellum America and the road to civil war."—Real Clear Books "Elections matter. And few have mattered more in US history than the 1844 election, which elevated to the White House a leader whose aggressive policies inadvertently helped set the nation on a path to civil war. In Who Is James Polk?, historian Mark Cheathem harnesses his unrivalled command of the politics of the 1830s and 1840s to give us the definitive account of this pivotal, if too often neglected, election. A must-read addition to this justly acclaimed series on America’s presidential elections."—Richard J. Ellis, author of Old Tip vs. the Sly Fox: The 1840 Election and the Making of a Partisan Nation"This will be the standard work on the election of 1844. It is also the model for how presidential elections should be studied and discussed. Cheathem gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of all the campaigns during the 1844 election. Any reader will feel like a political insider after reading this excellent work."—William K. Bolt, professor of history, Francis Marion University, and former assistant editor of the James K. Polk Project"Mark Cheathem’s account of the election of 1844 tells us who James K. Polk was, how he earned the Democratic nomination for president, how he won the White House, and why it matters. Deeply researched and engagingly written, the book places this often-overlooked election into the wide sweep of antebellum politics and explains that Polk’s election represented a ‘tipping point’ for the United States. Indeed, Cheathem makes clear that the sectional conflict over slavery that put the nation on the path to civil war cannot be fully analyzed without an understanding of this election. Historiographically significant, this book is a worthy contribution to the American Presidential Elections series."—Christopher J. Leahy, professor of history, Keuka College, and author of President without a Party: The Life of John TylerTable of Contents Editors’ Foreword Preface Acknowledgments Abbreviations 1. “A Political Saturnalia”: Jacksonian Party Politics, 1824–1840 2. “Oll for Klay”: The Whig National Convention 3. “An Entirely New Man”: The Democratic Convention 4. “:In the Hands of the Slave Power”: The Campaigns of Joseph Smith, John Tyler, and James G. Birney 5. “A National Festival”: The 1844 Campaign 6. “The Republic Is Safe”: Understanding Polk’s Victory Epilogue Appendix: James K. Polk’s Inaugural Address, March 4, 1845 Notes Bibliographic Essay Index

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Book SynopsisIf you only read one book to understand how Democrats will, and should, pick a new nomineeand the stakes of the general electionread Picking Presidents,which explains how to judge if a Presidential candidate is worthy of sitting in the Oval Office.Thomas L. Friedman, New York Times columnist and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and authorCelebrated leadership expert and political scientist Gautam Mukunda provides a comprehensive, objective, and non-partisan method for answering the most important question in the world: is someone up to the job of president of the United States? In Picking Presidents, Gautam Mukunda sets his sightson presidential candidates, proposing an objective and tested method to assess whether they will succeed or fail if they win the White House. Combining political science, psychology, organizational behavior, and economics, Picking Presidents will enable every American to cast an informed vote. In his 2012 book Indispensable, which all but predicted the Trump presidency, Mukunda explained how both the very best and very worst leaders are unfilteredoutsiders who take power without the understanding or support of traditional elites. Picking Presidents provides deep analysis of filtered and unfiltered presidents alike, from failed haberdasher and skillful president Harry Truman, to the exceptionally well-qualifiedand ultimately reviledJames Buchanan; from Andrew Johnson, who set civil rights back by a century, to Theodore Roosevelt, who evaded party opposition to transform American society. Picking Presidents lays out a clear framework that anyone can use to judge a candidate and answer the all-important question: are they up to the job?Table of ContentsContents List of Tables and Figure Preface Acknowledgments 1. The Fateful Choice 2. Harry Truman and the System at Its Best 3. James Buchanan and the Collapse of the System 4. Unhappy in Their Own Way: Failed Unfiltered Presidents 5. Five Stars and a Bull Moose: The Triumph of Unfiltered Presidents 6. Assessing Filtered and Unfiltered Candidates Conclusion. Where Do We Go from Here? Appendix: Statistical Analysis, Case Selection, and Theoretical Concerns Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisThe most intimate account of a serving prime minister ever published, this is the gripping inside story of David Cameron's government as told by senior figures, including the Prime Minister, George Osborne and Boris Johnson.Spanning the early days of the coalition to a bitterly contested general election, and ending with the astonishing EU Referendum story, Cameron at 10' tells the full story of a momentous premiership. From riots in London to the withdrawal from Afghanistan to the gambles of two seismic referenda the youngest prime minister since 1812 faced an exceptionally turbulent period in British politics. With insights into his relationships with EU leaders, the Brexit camp and Barack Obama, this is the essential blueprint for understanding the rise and fall of the Cameron government.Trade ReviewPraise for ‘Cameron at 10’ ‘Explosive… authoritative yet uncompromisingly tough… a gripping and at times astonishing account of the people who rule us’ Mail on Sunday ‘These pages are a masterclass in so-called “tick-tock” narrative – a minute-by-minute account, studded with detailed recollections and observations… A formidable achievement…Magisterial… If I were Mr Corbyn, I’d get busy reading’ Matthew D’Ancona, Evening Standard ‘While Lord Ashcroft may have started a brief craze for pig jokes…The more interesting (and damaging) disclosures come in the other new book about him, Cameron at 10 by Anthony Seldon and Peter Snowdon’ Fraser Nelson, Telegraph ‘Rigorously researched, giving an insight into the inner workings of Cameron’s No 10 and the coalition that we have not seen before… While Ashcroft and Oakeshott’s Call me Dave should by no means be dismissed, ultimately the offering from Seldon and Snowdon feels a far more substantial look at an intriguing political leader’ Independent on Sunday ‘An immensely thorough work… it contains a more damaging passage than any in their rival's unauthorised work' Dominic Lawson, Sunday Times ‘A substantial piece of work – a blow-by-blow account, impeccably researched and carefully documented, of the highs and lows of the first Cameron administration. The authors appear to have enjoyed almost total access. Their judgements are on the whole balanced and the narrative compelling’ Chris Mullin, Observer 'A monumental first draft of history' John Rentoul, Independent ‘Where Seldon excels is in his understanding of political relationships. Seldon and Snowdon are adept at convincing friends and colleagues to talk candidly’ The Times ‘Seldon and Snowdon are particularly strong on foreign policy… Cameron at 10 is an invaluable resource’ Daily Telegraph ‘Measured and thoughtful… Cameron at 10 is a fascinating book’ James Bloodworth, Daily Beast

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Book SynopsisTHE INSTANT SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER ?'Meticulously sourced, merciless and revelatory. It is a closely observed study of power, and how it is gained, used and lost' FINANCIAL TIMES The unmissable next instalment of Tim Shipman's #1 bestselling Brexit quartet. To follow his bestselling books All Out War and Fall Out, this book launches off from 2017 to offer an unflinching, unfiltered account of some of the most turbulent years of British politics. In the company of all the key players and with countless never-before-revealed insights, No Way Out traces the unprecedented disasters and triumphs of Theresa May's tenure. Spun with characteristic wit and wisdom, Shipman tells the story of May's three great negotiations first, with her cabinet, then with the EU and finally with parliament and chronicles her fall in thrilling detail. This is the ultimate insider narrative to three of the most turbulent and impactful years of government, revealing the strategies, gambles, mistakes, mindsets and scandals that have shaped and shaken Britain. As always, political insider and chief political commentator for the Sunday Times Tim Shipman unleashes a slew of insight and gossip to reveal the democratic drama as it really happened. 'The quantity of work required to tell a complicated, many-sided story in such detail is astonishing. What do we learn? Well, many things of genuine interest to political followers and historians. Is his book worth it? In the end, undoubtedly yes in an age of short-attention-span social media caricature, this is proper work, the real stuff of understanding. Historians will lean on it heavily. Would-be political leaders of the future will learn from it. It will set the narrative about how Brexit was handled, in a way other journalists can only envy' ANDREW MARR, NEW STATESMAN

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Book SynopsisThis pioneering and judicious history of foreign intervention in elections should be read by everyone who wants to defend democracy now.' Timothy Snyder, author of On TyrannyThe definitive account of covert operations to influence elections from the Cold War to 2016 and why the threat is greater than ever in 2020.Russia''s interference in 2016 marked only the latest chapter of a hidden and revelatory history. In Rigged, David Shimer tells the sweeping story of covert electoral interference past and present. He exposes decades of secret operations by the CIA, the KGB, and Vladimir Putin''s Russia to shape electoral outcomes, melding deep historical research with groundbreaking interviews with more than 130 key players, from former CIA directors to a KGB general.What Americans should make of Russia''s attack in 2016 is still hotly debated, even after the release of the Mueller Report and years of media coverage. Shimer shows that Putin''s operation was, in fact, a continuation of an oTrade Review‘This pioneering and judicious history of foreign intervention in elections should be read by everyone who wants to defend democracy now.’Timothy Snyder, author of On Tyranny ‘As a CIA operations officer, I served through the most complicated periods of the Cold War. David Shimer's book Rigged gives a riveting account of that traumatic period. Shimer knows why and how we engaged in covert action, and what we were up against. He also knows the policies we must modify, if we are to succeed in the 2020s. This is a truly significant book; by all means, read it.’Ambassador Donald Gregg, Former CIA Station Chief and National Security Advisor to VP George H.W. Bush ‘With clear prose and rigorous argument, David Shimer helps us understand the historical backdrop of Russia’s ongoing electoral interference. It is a sobering story – and a timely reminder of the importance of addressing the vulnerabilities and dysfunctions on which resourceful adversaries like Putin will continue to prey.’Ambassador William J. Burns, President, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State ‘This is a brilliant, eye-opening, and riveting book. Shimer’s analysis of foreign interference in elections, historical and contemporary, is unmatched. It should be the baseline for any future discussions about this urgent threat to our democracy.’Jake Sullivan, Former Director of Policy Planning, State Department 'Election interference' by one country into another is a subject that inspires speculation and conspiracy theory. David Shimer's Rigged establishes the facts: when and why Russians and Americans have meddled in the politics of other countries – and of one another. Based on a wide range of sources, this book is an excellent resource for people who want to know what actually happened, and not just what was rumoured.Anne Applebaum, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Gulag: A History

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Book SynopsisThe definitive and revealing account of the extraordinary parliamentary battle over Brexit and what it means for British democracy.Trade ReviewA terrific overview of the battles within Parliament to try to stop Brexit. * Paul Donnelley, Express.co.uk *This book is of paramount importance. The first proper look at what happened in those dreadful years, by extremely authoritative figures, taking no prisoners in its assessment. Absolutely vital reading. * Ian Dunt, Columnist, i Newspaper & Host, Origin Story podcast *I was engrossed in Brexit for years it feels as though it's finally possible to get some perspective, and Meg [Russell] and Lisa James's book does that brilliantly * Ros Taylor, The Bunker Podcast *I doubt whether anyone will ever improve on Russell & Jamess account. It is highly detailed, lucid, and painstakingly accurate... sure-footed and faultless. * Chris Grey, Brexit and Beyond Blog *An authoritative, comprehensive guide, written with great analytical lucidity and narrative verve. * Rafael Behr, Politics on the Couch *A beautifully researched, thoughtful, and morally alert examination of one of the most difficult and divisive issues in British history. * Rory Stewart, Former Conservative Cabinet Minister and co-host of The Rest is Politics podcast *In their analysis of these nuances, contradictions and complexities, Russell and James have written a book that will undoubtedly stand as the definitive text on the parliamentary battle for Brexit. * Katy Hayward, International Affairs *Brexit was a serious and destabilising political event, but also an extraordinary parliamentary soap opera. This accessible book provides a definitive, compelling account of every improbable plot twist, while identifying important lessons for the future of our democracy. * Dr Hannah White, Director, Institute for Government *Parliament was often the centre of national attention on Brexit. For a while in 2019, the BBC's Parliament channel's ratings even beat those for MTV. To really understand what went on, and what it all means, you can do no better than to read this meticulously researched book. * Anand Menon, Director of UK in a Changing Europe and Professor of European Politics and Foreign Affairs at King's College, London *The 2016 referendum and its aftermath crystallised long-running divisions over our EU membership, within political parties and the wider public. This thoughtful book charts what happened, identifies what could have been handled better, and helps outline how we can overcome the divisions and return to a more consensual democratic discourse. * Gisela Stuart, former Labour MP and chair of the 2016 Vote Leave campaign *Impressive and meticulously researched...[The Parliamentary Battle over Brexit] offers a clear chronological explanation and thematic analysis of those difficult years. * Ben Wellings, Australian Book Review *Thoughtful and carefully researched. * Emily Jones, Times Literary Supplement *Russell and James have written a book that will undoubtedly stand as the definitive text on the parliamentary battle for Brexit. * Katy Hayward, International Affairs 99: 6 *[A] clear-eyed study of the events of 2016. * New Statesman *A comprehensive account of The Parliamentary Battle Over Brexit which is well worth reading. * Sam Freedman, Comment is Freed *This book explores the power of Parliament, how Brexit challenged this power, and the lessons learned....Recommended. Advanced undergraduates through faculty; professionals. * Choice *Table of Contents1: Introduction 2: The parliamentary path to the Brexit referendum 3: The referendum 4: Theresa May and the triggering of Article 50 5: Seeking, but losing, a majority: the 2017 general election 6: Determining the form of Brexit 7: The emerging deal and the meaningful vote 8: Backbenchers 'seize control' 9: Shut down parliament! Boris Johnson and the prorogation crisis 10: The 2019 general election and the Brexit mandate 11: Conclusion: Brexit, parliament and the constitution

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Book SynopsisWhat does democracy expect of its citizens, and how do the citizenry match these expectations? This Oxford Handbook examines the role of the citizen in contemporary politics, based on essays from the world''s leading scholars of political behavior research. The recent expansion of democracy has both given new rights and created new responsibilities for the citizenry. These political changes are paralleled by tremendous advances in our empirical knowledge of citizens and their behaviors through the institutionalization of systematic, comparative study of contemporary publics--ranging from the advanced industrial democracies to the emerging democracies of Central and Eastern Europe, to new survey research on the developing world. These essays describe how citizens think about politics, how their values shape their behavior, the patterns of participation, the sources of vote choice, and how public opinion impacts on governing and public policy.This is the most comprehensive review of theTrade ReviewReview from previous edition The Oxford Handbooks of Political Science are an ambitious academic enterprise of monumental scale and accomplishment. The Oxford Handbook of Political Behavior is an indispensable guide to the extraordinary accumulation of knowledge and array of ideas in recent decades about mass political behaviour in free democracies. It is authoritative, expert, up-to-date and comprehensive and it is organised and written with a clarity that will satisfy expert scholar and curious beginner alike. * Professor Ivor Crewe, Vice Chancellor, University of Essex *The Oxford Handbook of Political Behavior provides important coverage of one of the major areas of political science research. It brings together the leading authors in the field and it takes a very broad view of what is a complex and multi-dimensional subject matter. Students entering political science and scholars pursuing the subject will benefit from this volume. * Sidney Verba, Carl H. Pforzheimer University Professor, Harvard University *Table of ContentsPART I INTRODUCTION; PART II MASS BELIEF SYSTEMS AND COMMUNICATION; PART III MODERNIZATION AND SOCIAL CHANGE; PART IV POLITICAL VALUES; PART V NEW DEBATES IN POLITICAL BEHAVIOR; PART VI POLITICAL PARTICIPATION; PART VII DOES PUBLIC OPINION MATTER?; PART VIII THE METHODOLOGY OF COMPARATIVE POLITICAL BEHAVIOR RESEARCH

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Book SynopsisAt the beginning of the 20th century Morris dancing had all but died out in much of England. It was militant suffragettes and slum girls who kick-started the revival that returned the forgotten dances of the countryside to towns and villages across the nation. As a result of their commitment to preserve and pass on the dances, the Morris survived as a living tradition that is still performed to this day. And the impetus to do so came from the women's aspiration to change society for the better, the same impetus that drove them to militant action and to prison.The Morris revival and the militant suffrage movement were inextricably linked. The leader of the dance revival, Mary Neal, was a life-long radical campaigner for the rights of women and children. With her friend Emmeline Pethick she ran the Esperance Girls' Club in one of London's most deprived areas. She and Emmeline both sat on the national committee of Mrs Pankhurst's militant Women's Social and Political Union, the most notor

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Book SynopsisThis book examines how election news reporting has changed over the last half century in Ireland by means of a unique dataset involving 25m words from newspapers as well as radio and television coverage. The authors examine reporting in terms of framing, tone and the distribution of coverage.They also focus on how the economy has affected election coverage as well as media reporting of leaders and personalities, gender and the effect of the commercial basis of media outlets. The findings - drawn from a machine learning computer system involving a huge content analysis study - will interest academics as well as politicians and policymakers internationally.Trade Review'This is an important and substantial contribution to scholarship in Irish journalism studies and Irish political studies.'Niamh Kirk, Estudios Irlandeses -- .Table of Contents1 Resilient reporting: An introduction2 Ireland: political, economic, and media systems3 The media and political change4 The role of the economy in media coverage5 Gender bias and Irish election coverage6 Party leaders and personalisation of politics7 Commercialism and election coverage8 Economy and crisis coverageConclusionAppendix 1: An overview of elections in Ireland since 1969Appendix 2: Data and methodologyReferencesIndex

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Book SynopsisThis is the definitive account of the rise, fall and future prospects of the Liberal Democrats, the party that threatened to break the mould of British politics but suffered electoral calamity after entering government with the Conservatives.Retracing the Lib Dems’ path to government and subsequent near oblivion, the book explores the relationship between the party and the electorate in a post-coalition, post-Brexit, post-pandemic era. It offers a deep analysis of the electoral strategy that enabled growth and precipitated failure, explaining how and why the party got the coalition so wrong and plotting a potential future. Drawing on extensive survey data and original interviews with Lib Dem politicians and activists, the authors expertly capture the relationship between the party and voters, revealing the foundations of Liberal Democrat campaigning and performance in the search for credibility and viability. The Liberal Democrats remain contradictory: a minor party with ambitions to upset the status quo, a party that depends on decisive leadership but relies on grassroots activism to remain relevant. This book helps unravel these apparent contradictions.Trade Review'Not all Liberal Democrats will agree with the frankness of the authors’ assessment of the party’s recent years, but all should pay close attention to their evidence-backed seven themes for future success.'Mark Pack, President of the Liberal Democrats‘A fascinating, 360-degree portrait of Britain's “third party”. The authors shine a harsh light on the Lib Dems’ ongoing problems but also point to their still-considerable potential. Forensically analytical yet approachably written, the book is absolutely essential reading in the run-up to the next general election – and beyond.’Tim Bale, author of The Conservative Party after Brexit‘This book contributes to the very small field of serious analyses of this important third force in British politics. Excellently researched and closely argued, it identifies dilemmas around identity, structure, agency and role, accounting for the party’s ill-fated period in coalition government while framing the potential for a future Liberal Democrat revival.’Laura McAllister, Professor of Public Policy and the Governance of Wales, Cardiff University -- .Table of ContentsIntroduction: structure, agency and an identity crisis Part I: The road to government 1 Policy distinctiveness, popular leaders and ‘winning here’ 2 ‘Cowley Street, we have a problem’: the false political and electoral dawn Part II: The coalition years: from government to obscurity 3 Getting the coalition wrong 4 Where did all the Liberal Democrat voters go? 5 Losing locally and being left behind Part III: The post-coalition story: fighting for survival 6 From life support to renewed hope 7 Political shocks and the coalition legacy: austerity, Brexit and leadership woes 8 The changing geography of the Liberal Democrat vote 9 Liberal Democrat campaigning at a crossroads: the big picture Conclusion: the Liberal Democrats’ identity crisisAppendix Index

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Book SynopsisAs America continues down its path of polarization, a celebrated journalist tells us the deep story of the red-state/blue-state divide In the wake of Trump’s presidency, Republican-led states have joined in an alarming assault on our democratic system. But the drift toward authoritarianism in red states has far deeper roots. We now have a country where tens of millions of people live under regimes that have spent years starving education and health care, empowering polluters, engaging in voter suppression, and neglecting their citizens’ well-being in the interest of cutting taxes for the wealthy. In States of Neglect, journalist William Kleinknecht surveys the landscape of neglect in states including Texas, Florida, and Arizona through the experiences of a rich cast of characters. He visits environmental dead zones in the Texas Gulf region. He investigates Arizona’s abandonment of public education and its corrupt charter school industry. He shows how Mississippi’s denuded health care system has made the Magnolia State the sickest in the nation. And he explains how North Carolina allows its people to sink into poverty while catering to the needs of corporations. As a postscript, Kleinknecht proposes how progressive states on either coast might join in a compact of “progressive federalism” that uses their superior economic and cultural resources to counter the influence of the far right.Trade ReviewPraise for States of Neglect:“Copious evidence, impassioned prose, and astute political analysis make this a must-read for progressive policymakers and activists.”—Publishers Weekly“An impassioned critique of Republican state officials for the harm they cause their most vulnerable residents.”—Kirkus Reviews“States of Neglect examines how a myriad of initiatives under Republican governors have negatively impacted citizens in red states and beyond.”—Library Journal

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Book SynopsisPolitical Communication in Britain offers unique insights from various members of the party, media, and polling organizations that contested, reported, and analysed the 2019 British General Election, as well as leading academic experts who have researched the campaign. Following an essay by Sir John Curtice exploring how the critical issue of Brexit influenced the election, the opening part of this volume features insiders discussing their respective parties’ operations, including their successes and disappointments. This section also includes expert examinations of Boris Johnson’s ‘oven ready deal’ as well as the digital advertising and controversial public relations efforts that helped promote it. The middle part of the book considers the media, with chapters from the BBC, Sky News, and regulator Ofcom, along with analyses of the pro-Conservative press, digital-only plat[1]forms, and the more left-leaning alternative news sites. The closing section of the volume turns to public attitudes, with experts, including leading pollsters, exploring how these contributed to the Conservatives’ victory. Dedicated chapters also place opinion research in broader context through examining the historical role of the exit poll, and the changing reception and reporting of polls both online and in print. Political Communication in Britain provides readers with an indispensable guide to the 2019 General Election from several of those most intimately involved in the campaign.Table of Contents Introduction The Editors 1. The Brexit Election? John Curtice (University of Strathclyde) CAMPAIGNING The campaign including from the perspective of the major political parties. 2. Conservative Rob Hayward (Conservative, House of Lords) 3. Labour Rory MacQueen (Labour, former Chief Advisor to the Shadow Chancellor) 4. Scottish National Party Erik Geddes (SNP Head of News) 5. Liberal Democrats James Gurling (Communications Advisor) 6. Mobilizing Youth: Extinction Rebellion and other social movement causes Abi Rhodes (University of Nottingham) 7. The Victory of One Nation Conservatism in Perspective David Seawright (University of Leeds) 8. Strategic Lying Ivor Gaber (University of Sussex) 9. Political Advertising- case study of a three-way marginal seat James Dennis (University of Portsmouth) MEDIA This section will consider how the campaign was reported from the perspective of those who covered the election. Particular attention will be paid to the rise and role of new digitally based platforms that have come to challenge more established forms of traditional print and broadcast journalism. 10. Legacy Media Reporting David Deacon, David Smith and Dominic Wring (Loughborough University) 11. Digital News Emily Harmer and Rosalynd Southern (University of Liverpool) 12. Alternative News Declan McDowell-Naylor, Stephen Cushion and Richard Thomas Southern (Cardiff University) 13. Editorial Policy Ric Bailey (Chief Political Advisor, BBC) 14. Practitioner Perspective Isla Glaister (Politics team, Sky News) 15. Regulatory Issues Adam Baxter (Ofcom) 16. View from Europe Sonia Delesalle-Stolper (Liberation) VOTERS This section will provide detailed insights into the opinion polls at the 2019: their role in the campaign, how they were conducted and what they tell us about the mood of the electorate. 17. How Britain Voted Ben Page and Cameron Garrett (Ipsos MORI) 18. Social Media Tara Beard-Knowland (Ipsos MORI) 19. Exit Polling Nick Moon (Moonlight Research) 20. Polling Then and Now Anthony Wells (YouGov) 21. The Polls in Perspective Murray Goot (Macquarie University)

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Book SynopsisThe results of Malaysia’s 14th General Elections of May 2018 were unexpected and transformative.Against conventional wisdom, the newly reconfigured opposition grouping Pakatan Harapan (PH) decisively defeated the incumbent Barisan Nasional (BN), ending six decades of uninterrupted dominant one-party rule.Despite a long-running financial scandal dogging the ruling coalition, pollsters and commentators predicted a solid BN victory or, at least, a narrow parliamentary majority. Yet, on the day, deeply rooted political dynamics and influential actors came together, sweeping aside many prevailing assumptions and reconfiguring the country’s political reality in the process.In order to understand the elections and their implications, this edited volume brings together contributions from ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute researchers and a group of selected collaborators to examine the elections from three angles: campaign dynamics; important trends among major interest groups; and local-level dynamics and developments in key states. This analytical work is complemented by personal narratives from a selection of GE-14 participants.

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Book SynopsisStephen Wayne is an Emeritus Professor of Government at Georgetown University.

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Book SynopsisThe greatest obstacle to sound economic policy is not entrenched special interests or rampant lobbying, but the popular misconceptions, irrational beliefs, and personal biases held by ordinary voters. This title looks at how people who vote under the influence of false beliefs ultimately end up with government that delivers lousy results.Trade Review"The best political book this year."--Nicholas D. Kristof, New York Times "Caplan thinks that democracy as it is now practiced cannot be salvaged, and his position is based on a simple observation: 'Democracy is a commons, not a market.'"--Louis Menand, The New Yorker "One of the two or three best books on public choice in the last twenty years."--Tyler Cowen, Marginal Revolution "Like a few recent best sellers--Freakonomics, The Tipping Point, The Wisdom of Crowds--The Myth of the Rational Voter unwraps economic theories and applies them to everyday life. Mr. Caplan's thesis, though, lacks any semblance of a compliment: The 'unwisdom of crowds' is closer to his point. He believes that the American public is biased against sensible, empirically proved economic policies about which nearly all economists agree. Voters, he says, are not just ignorant in the sense of having insufficient information. They actually hold wrong-headed and damaging beliefs about how the economy works."--Daniel Casse, The Wall Street Journal "[P]rovocative."--Elsa Dixler, New York Times Book Review "The Myth of the Rational Voter usefully extends the discussion [about democracy] by linking it with 'public choice' theory... Public choice theory faces a dilemma. A rational and self-interested person has no incentive to study political issues, as the chances of his or her determining the outcome are negligible. This has become known as 'rational ignorance'. Caplan maintains that the reality is much worse. He shows that voters are not just ignorant but systematically biased in favor of mistaken views."--Samuel Brittan, Financial Times "Caplan is right to detect a stubborn irrationality in ordinary voters and he correctly points out to his rational choice colleagues that their models are hopelessly unrealistic."--Martin Leet, Australian Review of Public Affairs "Caplan argues convincingly that irrational behaviour is pervasive among many of us today... Caplan's point, however, is that most voters are irrational. And that is worse than being ignorant... Their irrationality comes with a host of misconceptions that drive policy choices."--Fazil Mihlar, The Vancouver Sun "This engaging and provocative volume describes why democracy gives us far less than its promise. Countering existing theories of rationally ignorant voters, Caplan argues persuasively that voters are irrational, registering systematically biased beliefs--and consequently votes--against markets and other sound economy policy metrics... [T]his is a compelling book, offering readers a well-written and well-argued competing theory for why democracy fails and why we should limit what is done through the political process."--M. Steckbeck, Choice "[Caplan] argues that voters' own irrational biases, rather than flaws in the democratic process, compel voters to support policies that are not in their interest. While one may quibble with his specifics, the overall argument is convincing and applicable across a variety of fields...Forces the reader to take a second look at our nation's unshakable faith in the wisdom of the electorate."--Pio Szamel, Harvard Political Review "A brilliant and disturbing analysis of decision making by electorates that--[Caplan] documents--are perversely ignorant and woefully misinformed."--Neil Reynolds, The Globe and Mail "Scintillating... Outstanding."--Gene Epstein, Barron's Magazine "Kudos to Caplan for not wanting to leave well enough alone, but he could have given democracy more credit for diffusing--to the relatively benign act of voting--irrational and reactionary human behaviour that has in the past led to violence and war. In the meantime, it certainly would not hurt for more people to learn about the law of supply and demand."--Adam Fleisher, International Affairs "Caplan's book is a major accomplishment, which breaks new ground in our understanding of democratic politics and opens up a new research territory for further exploration."--Gene Callahan, Independent Review "[Persons] who do not grasp the lessons in Bryan's book cannot understand politics as well as persons who do grasp those lessons. Buy a copy. Read it. Ponder it. Learn."--Don Bourdreaux, Cafe HayekTable of ContentsACKNOWLEDGMENTS ix INTRODUCTION: The Paradox of Democracy 1 CHAPTER 1: Beyond the Miracle of Aggregation 5 CHAPTER 2: Systematically Biased Beliefs about Economics 23 CHAPTER 3: Evidence from the Survey of Americans and Economists on the Economy 50 CHAPTER 4: Classical Public Choice and the Failure of Rational Ignorance 94 CHAPTER 5: Rational Irrationality 114 CHAPTER 6: From Irrationality to Policy 142 CHAPTER 7: Irrationality and the Supply Side of Politics 166 CHAPTER 8: "Market Fundamentalism" versus the Religion of Democracy 182 CONCLUSION: In Praise of the Study of Folly 205 NOTES 211 REFERENCES 237 INDEX 267

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"The book is without any doubt a must-read for all party scholars. De Vries and Hobolt demonstrate that by focusing too much on the peculiarity of our times and trying to understand the novelty of a phenomenon we sometimes overlook that some patterns remain the same."---Sarah Engler, Party Politics"A smart and accessible book which relies on a wealth of empirical evidence to make its case — and it shines bright as an example of great academic writing, because it does so with a clarity that looks effortless but is so hard to attain."---Felix Simon, Medium"Covering and utilising an impressive bibliography in their research, they [De Vries and Hobolt] offer readers an innovative approach to the theory of political parties. Attempting to capture a broad audience while simultaneously attracting political experts, political scientists and entrepreneurs, the book offers us a timely approach to the way our politics are constructed. Moreover, it suggests that our world has to be seen as a more complex field. With Political Entrepreneurs, De Vries and Hobolt have successfully refreshed the literature on political parties, making the field more appealing to new researchers"---George Kordas, LSE Review of Books"Catherine de Vries and Sara Hobolt are arguably among the most influential scholars working on party competition in Europe. . . . Their book presents an exceptional contribution to research on European party competition that will unquestionably be a focal point of reference for any future research in this field."---Julia Schulte-Cloos, Acta Politica

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