Politics: An Introduction

Politics: An Introduction offers an accessible, comprehensive entry into political studies. Taking a comparative approach, authors George MacLean and Duncan Wood explore some essential questions of politics: Who has power in society, and why? Why is conflict so prevalent in the world today? How is wealth distributed, and why does such inequality exist? The text emphasizes Canadian content while maintaining an international scope, and ties theory to practice with current examples from Canada and around the world.

Beginning with a look at the fundamental nature of politics and the field of political studies, students are guided through the basics of ideology and institutions of political studies before they are introduced to more complex topics. These subject areas include the importance of government, political systems, political participation and culture, and a 'case study' look at politics in 'developed' and 'developing' states.

The final section of the book takes the study of politics to the world stage, examining the nature of the international system, the complicated issue of global insecurity, and the dynamics of international political economy. The last chapter covers applications and options for students in politics, responding to the important question, Where do we go from here?