Grounded in foundational debates, classic political science scholarship, and the best contemporary analysis of developmental trends, this reader invites introductory students to probe the historical dynamics that brought the United States to where it is today and how those dynamics are likely to affect the future course of American politics.

Acknowledgments, Introduction, Chapter 1: The Origins of American Political Principles, Chapter 2: The Revolution and the Constitution, Chapter 3: Federalism and the American Political System, Chapter 4: Political Socialization and Public Opinion, Chapter 5: The Mass Media and the Political Agenda, Chapter 6: Interest Groups, Chapter 7: Political Parties, Chapter 8: Voting, Campaigns, and Elections, Chapter 9: Congress: Lawmaking and Domestic Representation, Chapter 10: The President: Governing in Uncertain Times, Chapter 11: Bureaucracy: Shaping Government for the Twenty-first Century, Chapter 12: The Federal Courts: Activism v. Restraint, Chapter 13: Civil Liberties, Chapter 14: Civil Rights, Chapter 15: Government, the Economy, and Domestic Policy, Chapter 16: America’s Place in a Dangerous World, Source Information

"Perspectives on American Government is a perfect book for any Introduction to American Government class. The blend of original sources, classic research, and contemporary scholarship provides a wide range of material for class discussion. All types of students will find something that motivates them to dig deeper into the fundamental questions of democracy, representation, power, and policy."—David Ciuk, Franklin & Marhshal University"The mix of classic and contemporary readings selected in this volume do a terrific job illustrating the complexity and layering of American political dynamics. Classic articles depict the contributions of seminal figures in American political development, and contemporary articles illustrate how American politics have developed over time. Where this volume is especially strong is in connecting the past developments to current problems. Jillson and Robertson’s prose is straightforward and the explanations for students are accessible."—Jonathan Chausovsky, State University of New York, Fredonia"I have used the first edition previously and while it was very useful in giving the student a deeper insight, this Second Edition is even better. In my opinion, the best ‘Readings’ available."—Stephen Clay Anthony, Georgia State University