This authoritative new introductory text covers the key concepts, theories and issues involved in the study of comparative politics. Focusing on democratic government, it covers all important topics in the field from constitutional design and institutions; through mass and elite politics, groups, parties, the media and governments; to policy making and implementation. The final chapter considers the future of the state and democracy in a globalizing world. The authors draw on experiences and examples from around the world, including extensive support material for students and teachers. Each chapter ends with a section dealing with the major theoretical approaches to the subject.