Caramani

Introduction. Section I: Theories and methods. 1. The evolution of comparative politics. 2. Approaches in comparative politics. 3. Comparative research methods. Section II: The historical context. 4. The nation-state. 5. Democracies. 6. Authoritarian regimes. Section III: Structures and institutions. 7. Parliaments. 8. Governments and bureacracies. 9. Constitutions and courts. 10. Elections and referendums. 11. Unitary, federal, and local government institutions. Section IV: Actors and processes. 12. Political parties. 13. Party systems. 14. Interest groups. 15. Regions. 16. Social movements. 17. Political culture. 18. Political behaviour. 19. Political communication. Section V: Public policies. 20. Policy making. 21. The welfare state. 22. The impact of public policies. Section VI: Current issues. 23. The EU as a new political system. 24. Globalization and the nation-state. 25. Promoting democracy. Conclusion: Democractic quality.