Description
Book SynopsisFrom campus protests to the Congress floor, the central feature of contemporary American politics is ideological polarization. In this concise, readable, but comprehensive text, Steven E. Schier and Todd E. Eberly introduce students to this contentious subject through an in-depth look at the ideological foundations of the contemporary American political machine of parties, politicians, the media, and the public. Beginning with a redefinition of contemporary liberalism and conservatism, the authors develop a comprehensive examination of ideology in all branches of American national and state governments. Investigations into ideologies reveal a seeming paradox of a representative political system defined by ever growing divisions and a public that continues to describe itself as politically moderate. The work's breadth makes it a good candidate for a course introducing American politics, while its institutional focus makes it suitable for adoption in more advanced courses on Congress, th
Trade Review"While various analysts have described and explained party sorting—the growing relationship between partisanship and ideology—Schier and Eberly advance the discussion via a nuanced and thoughtful tracing of the consequences of party sorting for the operation of our national institutions." -- Morris P. Fiorina, Wendt Family Professor of Political Science, Stanford University
"In one thoughtful, approachable, and concise book, Steven Schier and Todd Eberly have concisely summarized what we know about party polarization. It is a great introduction to the most important trend of the last 40 years in American politics. Through engaging political stories, dissecting election returns, and analyzing political science, the reader will walk away with a profound understanding of what caused party polarization, what it has effected, and what can be done about it. Their provocative conclusion will be a great conversation starter in the classroom, over the dinner table, or at the water cooler." -- Sean M. Theriault, The University of Texas at Austin
“Schier and Eberly address the critical question for contemporary politics – polarization in American democracy. This is a must read for scholars and informed citizens alike about the role and impact of ideology.” -- Janet Box-Steffensmeier, The Ohio State University
Table of Contents1 Ideology in American Politics 2 Ideology in the American Public 3 The Geography of Polarization 4 The Ideological Presidency 5 An Ideological Congress 6 Ideology in the Federal and State Courts 7 Ideology’s Impact on American Politics Index About the Authors
