Written from the perspective of someone who has worked in local government, this text is a comprehensive, thematically-organized treatment of California politics. The author brings the subject to life for students using the two themes--diversity and hyperpluralism--that make California's political climate so interesting. In particular, the author examines the growing proliferation of pressures and groups that compete for attention and make governing the state increasingly challenging. And, to illustrate the connection between California politics and American politics, the author discusses aspects of American politics--such as the democratic, elite, and pluralist theories--and how these broader concepts add new clarity and depth to any understanding of California politics.

Benefits:

• As a concise version of Lawrence's comprehensive CALIFORNIA: THE POLITICS OF DIVERSITY," this text retains the full text's coverage of political history, lucid writing, pedagogy, and essential illustrations such as graphs and map--making it the perfect supplement to any American Government course with a California Politics component.
• The organization will easily and flexibly supplement an American government course by allowing the instructor to use separate units or a chapter-by-chapter progression.
• Current research in the book includes polling data, the 2003 budget crisis, and 2002 election results and analysis.
• A concluding policy chapter is included, addressing the budget and policies stemming from growth and diversity in California.