Living Democracy, Brief Texas Edition
Published on 28. January 2007
Book
Paperback/Softback
996 pages
978-0-13-232080-1 (ISBN)
Description
For undergraduate courses in American Government.
This is the book that gets students to participate.
Living Democracy gets students to participate in learning, in the classroom, and in change. The book's young and energetic author team cares deeply about student learning and student engagement. Lead author Dan Shea founded the Center for Political Participation and his experiences working with students in the classroom and in the center inspired him to team up with co-authors Joanne Connor Green (Texas Christian University) and Christopher E. Smith (Michigan State) to write an American Government text that truly inspires students and helps them experience the impact of government in their daily lives. Everything about the book-the writing, design, examples, photos, activities, and every page of the text-is designed to get students to participate in their class and in American politics.
In a recent survey of American Government courses, 80% of instructors named student apathy-about the course material, about politics, about the prospect that government can do anything to enrich their lives-as the number one problem in their course. Written with the belief that introductory courses in American Government are critically important for our students-as well as for the long-term stability of the democratic process-Living Democracy is designed to help students draw connections between topics and to find a role for themselves in politics and government. The text's innovative approach to American government presents the dynamic nature of our country's democratic process more accurately than any other book currently on the market, while offering all of the material found in a comprehensive, traditionally organized government text within an active framework.
This is the book that gets students to participate.
Living Democracy gets students to participate in learning, in the classroom, and in change. The book's young and energetic author team cares deeply about student learning and student engagement. Lead author Dan Shea founded the Center for Political Participation and his experiences working with students in the classroom and in the center inspired him to team up with co-authors Joanne Connor Green (Texas Christian University) and Christopher E. Smith (Michigan State) to write an American Government text that truly inspires students and helps them experience the impact of government in their daily lives. Everything about the book-the writing, design, examples, photos, activities, and every page of the text-is designed to get students to participate in their class and in American politics.
In a recent survey of American Government courses, 80% of instructors named student apathy-about the course material, about politics, about the prospect that government can do anything to enrich their lives-as the number one problem in their course. Written with the belief that introductory courses in American Government are critically important for our students-as well as for the long-term stability of the democratic process-Living Democracy is designed to help students draw connections between topics and to find a role for themselves in politics and government. The text's innovative approach to American government presents the dynamic nature of our country's democratic process more accurately than any other book currently on the market, while offering all of the material found in a comprehensive, traditionally organized government text within an active framework.
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
United States
Publishing group
Pearson Education (US)
Target group
College/higher education
Dimensions
Height: 273 mm
Width: 229 mm
ISBN-13
978-0-13-232080-1 (9780132320801)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
New editions
Daniel M. Shea | Joanne Connor Green | Christopher E. Smith
Living Democracy, Brief Texas Edition
Book
06/2010
2nd Edition
Pearson
€86.65
Article exhausted; check for reprint
Content
Part One: Foundations of American Government
Preface/Walkthrough
Acknowledgments
About the Authors
1 American Government: Democracy in Action
American Democracy and the Individual Citizen
The Unique Democracy of the United States
Themes of This Book
Citizen Participation in Democratic Government
Pathways of Action
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Active Students and Local Air Pollution Laws
PATHWAYS PROFILE: A. Philip Randolph
Diversity in American Society
Citizen Participation and Pathways: The Example of Abortion
Change and Stability in American Government
Sources of Stability
PATHWAYS PROFILE: The Political Culture of Our Neighbor to the North
Conclusion
2 Early Governance and the Constitutional Framework
The Cry for Liberty, Equality, . . . and Slavery?
The Nature of Government and Politics
Types of Governments
Economic Systems
Early Governance in America
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Sons of Liberty
The American Revolution
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Thomas Paine and the "Common Sense" of Democracy
The Declaration of Independence
The Colonial Experience and the Pathways of Change
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Tiimothy McVeigh's Revolution?
The Articles of Confederation
Limitations of the Articles of Confederation
Shays's Rebellion: An Alternative Look
The Constitutional Convention
The Great Compromise
The Three-Fifths Compromise
The Sectional Compromise
The U.S. Constitution
The Struggle over Ratification
The Federalist Papers
The Anti-Federalists' Response
Other Challenges Faced by the New Nation
A Second Revolution
Jacksonian Democracy
Conclusion
Part Two: The Institutions of American Government
3 Federalism
No Child Left Behind and the Ongoing Debate over Authority
Why Divide Authority in the First Place?
The Evolution of Federalism in the United States
Before the Civil War
PATHWAYS PROFILE: John Marshall
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Civil War and the Failure of American Politics
Federalism after the Civil War
Federal Power: The Supreme Court and the New Deal
Recent Trends in Federalism
The New Deal and Cooperative Federalism
The Great Society and Creative Federalism
The Changing Nature of Federal Grants
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Mandates to Prompt Change
New Federalism
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Dillon's Rule versus Home Rule
Devolution
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Intergovernmental Lobbyists
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: States' Rights-For Liberals?
The Supreme Court's Shift in Perspective
Conclusion
4 The Judiciary
Controversy over Same-Sex Marriage
Court Structure and Processes
The Adversarial System
Trial Courts
Appellate Courts
The United States Supreme Court
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Ruth Bader Ginsburg
The Power of American Judges
Constitutional and Statutory Interpretation
Judicial Review
Federal Judges' Protected Tenure
Judicial Selection and Judges' Decision Making
Judicial Selection in the Federal System
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Diversity in the Judiciary
Judicial Selection in the States
Judges' Decision Making
Political Science and Judicial Decision Making
Action in the Court Pathway
PATHWAYS PROFILE: John G. Roberts Jr.
Interest Group Litigation
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The NAACP and Racial Segregation
Elements of Strategy
Implementation and Impact
Judicial Policymaking and Democracy
Conclusion
5 Civil Liberties and Civil Rights
Restrictions on Freedom of Speech
The Bill of Rights in History
Early Interpretation of the Bill of Rights
The Incorporation Process and the Nationalization of Constitutional Rights
First Amendment Rights
Freedom of Speech
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Mary Beth Tinker
Freedom of the Press
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Supreme Court Workload
Obscenity
Freedom of Religion
Civil Liberties and Criminal Justice
The Right to Bear Arms
Search and Seizure
Self-Incrimination
Trial Rights
Capital Punishment
Privacy
Abortion
Private Sexual Conduct
Equal Protection of the Law
The Fourteenth Amendment and Reconstruction
The Rise and Persistence of Racial Oppression
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Fred Korematsu
Litigation Strategies and School Segregation
Clarifying the Coverage of the Equal Protection Clause
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Restrictive Covenants
Grassroots Mobilization and Civil Rights
Civil Rights Legislation
Women and Civil Rights
Latinos and Civil Rights
Emerging Groups
Conclusion
6 Congress
Health, Human Services, . . . and Less Restrictive Gun Laws?
The Nature and Style of Representation
Congress and the Constitution
Redistricting
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Texas Redistricting Battle
Organizing the Legislative Process
Standing Committees: The Workhorses of the Legislature
What Committees Do
Political Parties and the Legislature
Legislative Leadership
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Makes History
Legislative Rules and Norms
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: The Caning of Senator Charles Sumner
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Bridges to Nowhere?
How a Bill Becomes Law
Making Laws: A Summary
Who Sits in Congress?
Gender
Race and Ethnicity
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Congresswoman Barbara Jordan of Texas
Income and Occupation
Congressional Ethics
Conclusion
7 The Presidency
From Storyteller to Commander in Chief-in Seven Minutes!
Early Concerns about Executive Power
The President and the Constitution
The Constitutional Convention
Article II and Ratification of the Constitution
The Evolution of the Presidency
Models of Presidential Power
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Theodore Roosevelt and the Bully Pulpit
Institutional Changes
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: FDR Takes Charge!
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State and Political Scientist
The Changing Role of the Vice President
Informal Powers of the President
First Ladies
The Many Roles of Modern Presidents
The President as Chief of State
The President as Chief Legislator
The President as Chief Diplomat
The President as Commander in Chief
The President as Chief Executive
Presidential Greatness
Conclusion
8 Bureaucracy
Government and Natural Disasters
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Arsenic Standards for Drinking Water
Organization of the Federal Bureaucracy
Development of the Federal Bureaucracy
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Reorganization of the Bureaucracy
Departments
Independent Agencies, Independent Regulatory Commissions, and Government Corporations
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Joan Claybrook
The Nature of Bureaucracy
The Image of Bureaucracy
The Advantages of Bureaucracy
The Problems of Government Bureaucracy
Reform of the Bureaucracy
The Lobbying Pathway and Policymaking
The Bureaucracy and Legislation
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Jeffrey N. Shane
The Bureaucracy and Information
Regulations
Quasi-Judicial Processes
Oversight and Accountability
Conclusion
Part Three: The American Public and the Democratic Process
9 Political Socialization and Public Opinion
Change in Action: Views of Homosexuality
Public Opinion
Fundamental Values
The Stability of Political Beliefs
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Sexism Reconsidered
The Impact of Popular Culture on Political Opinions and Values
The Power of Popular Culture
From Values to Ideology
PATHWAYS PROFILE: New College Conservatives
Political Socialization
Family
School
Peers and Community
Religion
The Media
Impact of Events
Social Groups and Political Values
Economic Bases of Partisanship and Public Opinion
Education
Religion
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Jim Wallis
Race and Ethnicity
Gender
Measuring Public Opinion
Use of Polls
History of Polling
PATHWAYS PROFILE: George Gallup
Modern Polling Techniques
Survey Research
Controversies Surrounding Polling
Conclusion
10 The Politics of the Media
Media and Cultural Change
Mass Media
History of Mass Media
Print Media
Electronic Media
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Edward R. Murrow
Functions of the Media
Entertainment
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: The Role of Profits
Social Effects of the Media
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Dorothea Lange, Photojournalist
PATHWAYS PROFILE: The Typical Journalist
Political Use of Media
How Politicians Make the News
How Journalists Report the News
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Strategic Use of Leaks
How Groups Use the Media
The Media and the Public in the Political Arena
Media in Campaigns
Global Issues 4
Narrowcasting
Concentration and Centralization of Ownership
Governmental Regulations
The Right to Privacy
Rules regarding Content and Ownership
Challenges Related to the "New Media"
Conclusion
11 Interest Groups, Social movements, and Civil Engagement
Citizens in Action, Rocking the Vote
Activism and Protest in the United States: A Brief History
Influencing the Government through Mobilization and Participation
Constitutional Guarantees for Citizen Activism and Mobilization
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Frederick Douglass
The Role of Interest Groups in the Policy Process
What Are Interest Groups?
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: LULAC
Functions of Interest Groups in a Democratic Society
The Interest Group Explosion
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Ralph Nader
Types of Interest Groups
Bias in Representation: Who Participates?
Difficulties in Mobilization
Overcoming Organizational Barriers
The Role of Interest Group Leaders
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Alice Stokes Paul
Inside and Outside Lobbying
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Recording Artists Coalition
Outside Lobbying
Lobbying Other Groups and Forming Alliances
Grassroots Mobilization
Grassroots Lobbying Tactics
Campaign Activities
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Traditional Volunteers versus Paid Professionals
The Importance of Money in Mobilization
Uses of Money
Fundraising Tactics
Interest Group Influence
The Age of Apathy?
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Youth Groups
Conclusion
12 Elections and Political Participation in America
How Much for That Senate Seat?
Elections and Democratic Theory
Republicanism and Different Ways to Select Leaders
Elections as an Expression of Popular Will
Stability and Legitimacy
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Power of the Purple Finger
Civic Education
Fulfilling One's Civic Duty
A Safety Valve
The Limitations of Elections
Elections as a Placebo
A Poor Measure of Public Sentiment
The Atomization of Politics
Constricting the Pool of Public Officials
A Broken Process?
Elections and the Law
The Electoral College
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Four Winners Who Lost
Amendments to the Constitution and the Electoral Process
Voting and Legislative Acts
Referendums, Initiatives, and Recalls
The Future of the Ballot Initiative as a Pathway of Change
The Role of Money in Elections
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Two Innovative Campaign Operatives
The Rage for Reform
Political Action Committees
The Incumbent Fundraising Advantage
Reforming the Reforms: BCRA
The Ironies of Money and Politics
Levels of Political Participation
The Shrinking Electorate
Why Has Turnout Declined?
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Mark Shields-"This I Believe"
Voting and Demographic Characteristics
Are Young Voters Tuning Out?
Are They Getting the Message? Young Voters in the 2004 and 2006 Elections
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Citizen Change: Puffy Gets Political
Conclusion
13 Political Parties
Religion and Party PoliticS
What Is a Political Party?
Party Functions
The Components of Political Parties
Party-in-Government
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Contract with America
Party-in-the-Electorate
Realignment Theory
Party-as-Organization
Party Eras in American History
Phase 1: The Emergence of Parties in America (1790s-1828)
Phase 2: The Heyday of Parties (1828-1900)
Phase 3: Party Decline (1900-1970s)
Phase 4. Organizational Resurgence (1970s-Present)
Minor Parties in American Politics
Barriers to Minor Party Success
Minor Parties in American History
Minor Parties in the Twenty-First Century
Political Parties and Ideology
The Nomination Process
Different Primary Systems
Presidential Nominations
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Howard Dean's Innovative Internet Campaign
A More Democratic Process?
14 Domestic and Foreign Policy Development
Hooters and Polluters: The Politics of Public Policy
The Nature of Public Policy
Ideas and Values in Public Policy
Freedom
Equality
Political Ideology
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Rachel Carson
Types of Public Policy
The Public Policy Process
Identifying the Problem
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Mothers Against Drunk Driving
Setting an Agenda
Formulating and Legitimizing Policy
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: The Welfare Debate
Implementing Policy
Alternative Views of the Policy Process
The Basics of Economic Policy
Making American Foreign Policy
The Domestic Context
Political Institutions
Foreign Policy in the Years Ahead
Conclusion
15 The Social and Economic Milieu of Texas Politics
Decades of Change and Challenge
Challenges of the Twenty-First Century
Texas Myths
The Political Culture of Texas
The Individualistic Subculture
The Moralistic Subculture
The Traditionalistic Subculture
Historical Origins of Political Subcultures
The People of Texas
Native Americans
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: What's in a Name?
Hispanics
African Americans
Anglos
Asian Americans
Politics, Race, and Ethnicity
The Political Implications of Demographics
Population Increase
The Aging Population
Urbanization
Population Density
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Do Size and Geography Shape Texas Politics?
Wealth and Income Distribution
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Texas Compared to Other States
Education and Literacy
The Economy of Texas
Economic Regions of Texas
Transnational Regionalism
Maquiladoras 6
The North American Free Trade Agreement
Trade Patterns between Texas and Mexico
Common Borders, Common Problems
Illegal Immigration
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Complexity of the Illegal Immigration Issue
16 The Texas Constitution
The Constitutional Legacy
The Texas Constitution in a Comparative Perspective
The Constitution of Coahuila y Tejas (1827)
The Constitution of the Republic of Texas (1836)
The Constitution of 1845
The Civil War Constitution (1861)
The Constitution of 1866
The Reconstruction Constitution (1869)
The Constitution of 1876: Retrenchment and Reform
General Principles of the Texas Constitution
Weaknesses and Criticisms of the Constitution of 1876
Executive Branch
Legislative Branch
Judicial Branch
Education
Budgeting and Finances
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Budget Restrictions
Individual Rights
Consequences of Details
Constitutional Change and Adaptation
Amendment
PATHWAYS PROFILE: A Lot of Trouble for a Minor Office
Constitutional Convention
Constitutional Reform Efforts of 1971-1975
Further Piecemeal Reforms
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: High Stakes over Lawsuits
Constitutional Provisions, Interest Groups, and Elites
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Adding a Little Flavor to the Constitution
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Oops! How Did That Happen?
Change through Court Interpretation
Constitutional Restraints and the Ability to Govern
17 Interest Groups, Political Parties, and Elections in Texas
The Power of Interest Groups
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Should We Regulate the Type and Number of Conferences Legislators Attend?
Pluralism or Elitism?
Dominant Interest Groups in Texas
Business Groups
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Do Lobbyists Represent the Average Citizen?
Professional Groups
Education Groups
Public Interest Groups
Minority-Interest Groups
Organized Labor Groups
Government Lobbyists
Agriculture Groups
Religious Groups
PATHWAYS PROFILE: The Religious Right and Republican Growth
The Development of a Two-Party System in Texas
One-Party Democratic Politics
Factionalism in the Democratic Party
Two-Party Politics in Texas
Toward Republican Dominance
Third Parties
Changing Patterns of Party Support and Identification
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Where Have All the Yellow Dogs Gone?
The Party Organization
The Permanent Organization
Temporary Organizations
Precinct Conventions
County or Senatorial District Conventions
State Conventions
Parties and Government
Minorities and Political Participation
Political Gains by Minorities and Women
Hispanics
African Americans
Women
Elections in Texas
Primary Elections
General Elections
City, School Board, and Single-Purpose District Elections
Special Elections
Extended Absentee Balloting
Campaign Finances
Campaign Costs
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Karl Rove: An Adviser in High Places
Fundraising
Political Action Committees and Fat Cats
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Bob Perry: Homebuilder and Big Contributor
Attempts at Reform
18 The Texas Legislature
Legislative Functions
Enacting Laws
Budgets and Taxes
Overseeing State Agencies
Educating the Public
Representing the Public
Institutionalization of the Texas Legislature
Organization and Composition of the Texas Legislature
Legislative Sessions
Terms of Office and Qualifications
Pay and Compensation
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: What Should a Legislator Be Paid?
Physical Facilities
Membership and Careers
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Gregory Luna and Irma Rangel
Legislative Turnover
Representation and Redistricting
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Partisanship and Rules of the 2003 Redistricting Battle
Legislative Leadership
House Leadership
Senate Leadership
Influence and Control over the Legislative Process
Leadership Teams
The Committee System
Standing Committees
Standing Subcommittees
Conference Committees
Special Committees
Rules and Procedures
How a Bill Becomes a Law
Procedural Obstacles to Legislation
Shortcuts, Obfuscation, and Confusion
The Emerging Party System
The Growth of Partisanship
Republicans Take Control
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Arlene Wohlgemuth's "Memorial Day Massacre"
Other Legislative Caucuses
Legislators and Their Constituents
Legislative Decision Making
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Legislative Reputation, Power and Influence
The Development of Legislative Staff
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: The Sharpstown Stock Fraud Scandal
Legislative Ethics and Reforms
19 The Texas Executive and Bureaucracy
The Structure of the Plural Executive
The Governor
Background and Requirements for Governorship
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Governor Bill Clements
Impeachment and Incapacitation
Salary and Perks of the Office
Legislative Powers of the Governor
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Governor Ann Richards
Budgetary Powers of the Governor
Appointive and Removal Powers of the Governor
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Governor George W. Bush
Judicial Powers of the Governor
Military Powers of the Governor
Informal Resources of the Governor
The Governor's Staff
The Governor and the Mass Media
The Governor and the Political Party
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Governor Rick Perry
The Governor and Interest Groups
Other Offices of the Executive Branch
Lieutenant Governor
Attorney General
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Attorney General Dan Morales and the Tobacco Settlement
Comptroller of Public Accounts
Commissioner of the General Land Office
Commissioner of Agriculture
Secretary of State
State Treasurer
Elected Boards and Commissions
Texas Railroad Commission
State Board of Education
The Texas Bureaucracy
The Growth of Government in Texas
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Texas State Treasurer
Bureaucrats and Public Policy
Policy Implementation
Obstacles to Policy Implementation
Strategies for Controlling the Bureaucracy
The Revolving Door
Legislative Budgetary Control
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: What Can Happen to a Whistleblower
Sunset Legislation
Performance Reviews
Merit Systems and Professional Management
20 The Texas Judiciary
The State Courts in the Federal System
The Legal Framework of the Judicial System
The Structure of the Texas Court System
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Criminal Justice-an Expensive Headache
Courts of Limited Jurisdiction
County Courts
Courts of General Jurisdiction
Intermediate Courts of Appeals
The Highest Appellate Courts
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Steve Mansfield
Texas Judges
Other Participants in the State Judiciary
Efforts to Reform the Judicial System
The Jury System
The Grand Jury
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Is This Any Way to Round up a Jury
The Petit Jury
Judicial Procedures and Decision Making
Judicial Concerns and Controversies
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: A Huge Injustice in Tulia
Judicial Activism
Judicial Impropriety
Campaign Contributions and Republican Gains
Legislative Reaction to Judicial Activism
Winners and Losers
Minorities and the Judicial System
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: An Attack on Affirmative Action
Minority Judicial Appointments
Women in the Judiciary
The Search for Solutions
Crime and Punishment
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: More Is Involved than Technicalities
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Can Justice Afford a Nap?
The Politics of Criminal Justice
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Justice Delayed, Justice Denied?
The Increased Policy Role of the State Courts
The Courts and Education
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Constitution Is for Everybody
The Courts and Abortion Rights
The Courts and Gay Rights
21 Local Government in Texas
Local Governments in the Texas Political System
Municipal Government in Texas
General-Law and Home Rule Cities
Forms of City Government in Texas
Mayor-Council
City Commission
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Does the Form of City Government Make Any Difference?
Council-Manager
Municipal Election Systems 8
Nonpartisan City Elections
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Is This Any Way to Change a City Charter?
At-Large Elections 8
Single-Member Districts
Legal Attacks on At-Large Elections
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: What Type of Electoral System Produces the Most Responsive City Council?
City Revenues and Expenditures
Urban Problems in Texas
The Graying of Texas Cities
"White Flight"
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Ron Kirk and Lee Brown
Declining Infrastructures
Crime and Urban Violence
State- and Federally Mandated Programs
PATHWAYS PROFILE: The Job of the City Council Member
County Government in Texas
Structure of County Government
The Commissioners Court and County Judge
County Clerk
District Clerk
County and District Attorneys
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Ronnie Earle
Tax Assessor-Collector
County Law Enforcement
County Auditor
County Treasurer
Criticisms of County Government
Special Districts in Texas
Functions and Structures
Consequences of Single-Purpose Districts
Independent School Districts
Inequities in the Public Education System
Local School Governance
Councils of Government
Solutions to the Problems of Local Government
Privatization of Functions
Annexation and Extraterritorial Jurisdiction
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: The Annexation Powers of Texas
Home Rule Cities
Modernization of County Government
Economic Development
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Abatements
Interlocal Contracting
Metro Government and Consolidation
Public Improvement Districts
Appendices
1 Declaration of Independence of the Thirteen Colonies
2 The Constitution of the United States
3 The Federalist, No. 10, James Madison
4 The Federalist, No. 51, James Madison
5 The Gettysburg Address, Abraham Lincoln
6 I Have a Dream, Martin Luther King
7 Presidents and Congresses
8 Supreme Court Justices
9 ABC News Video Student Guide
Glossary
Notes
Credits
Index
Preface/Walkthrough
Acknowledgments
About the Authors
1 American Government: Democracy in Action
American Democracy and the Individual Citizen
The Unique Democracy of the United States
Themes of This Book
Citizen Participation in Democratic Government
Pathways of Action
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Active Students and Local Air Pollution Laws
PATHWAYS PROFILE: A. Philip Randolph
Diversity in American Society
Citizen Participation and Pathways: The Example of Abortion
Change and Stability in American Government
Sources of Stability
PATHWAYS PROFILE: The Political Culture of Our Neighbor to the North
Conclusion
2 Early Governance and the Constitutional Framework
The Cry for Liberty, Equality, . . . and Slavery?
The Nature of Government and Politics
Types of Governments
Economic Systems
Early Governance in America
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Sons of Liberty
The American Revolution
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Thomas Paine and the "Common Sense" of Democracy
The Declaration of Independence
The Colonial Experience and the Pathways of Change
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Tiimothy McVeigh's Revolution?
The Articles of Confederation
Limitations of the Articles of Confederation
Shays's Rebellion: An Alternative Look
The Constitutional Convention
The Great Compromise
The Three-Fifths Compromise
The Sectional Compromise
The U.S. Constitution
The Struggle over Ratification
The Federalist Papers
The Anti-Federalists' Response
Other Challenges Faced by the New Nation
A Second Revolution
Jacksonian Democracy
Conclusion
Part Two: The Institutions of American Government
3 Federalism
No Child Left Behind and the Ongoing Debate over Authority
Why Divide Authority in the First Place?
The Evolution of Federalism in the United States
Before the Civil War
PATHWAYS PROFILE: John Marshall
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Civil War and the Failure of American Politics
Federalism after the Civil War
Federal Power: The Supreme Court and the New Deal
Recent Trends in Federalism
The New Deal and Cooperative Federalism
The Great Society and Creative Federalism
The Changing Nature of Federal Grants
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Mandates to Prompt Change
New Federalism
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Dillon's Rule versus Home Rule
Devolution
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Intergovernmental Lobbyists
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: States' Rights-For Liberals?
The Supreme Court's Shift in Perspective
Conclusion
4 The Judiciary
Controversy over Same-Sex Marriage
Court Structure and Processes
The Adversarial System
Trial Courts
Appellate Courts
The United States Supreme Court
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Ruth Bader Ginsburg
The Power of American Judges
Constitutional and Statutory Interpretation
Judicial Review
Federal Judges' Protected Tenure
Judicial Selection and Judges' Decision Making
Judicial Selection in the Federal System
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Diversity in the Judiciary
Judicial Selection in the States
Judges' Decision Making
Political Science and Judicial Decision Making
Action in the Court Pathway
PATHWAYS PROFILE: John G. Roberts Jr.
Interest Group Litigation
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The NAACP and Racial Segregation
Elements of Strategy
Implementation and Impact
Judicial Policymaking and Democracy
Conclusion
5 Civil Liberties and Civil Rights
Restrictions on Freedom of Speech
The Bill of Rights in History
Early Interpretation of the Bill of Rights
The Incorporation Process and the Nationalization of Constitutional Rights
First Amendment Rights
Freedom of Speech
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Mary Beth Tinker
Freedom of the Press
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Supreme Court Workload
Obscenity
Freedom of Religion
Civil Liberties and Criminal Justice
The Right to Bear Arms
Search and Seizure
Self-Incrimination
Trial Rights
Capital Punishment
Privacy
Abortion
Private Sexual Conduct
Equal Protection of the Law
The Fourteenth Amendment and Reconstruction
The Rise and Persistence of Racial Oppression
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Fred Korematsu
Litigation Strategies and School Segregation
Clarifying the Coverage of the Equal Protection Clause
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Restrictive Covenants
Grassroots Mobilization and Civil Rights
Civil Rights Legislation
Women and Civil Rights
Latinos and Civil Rights
Emerging Groups
Conclusion
6 Congress
Health, Human Services, . . . and Less Restrictive Gun Laws?
The Nature and Style of Representation
Congress and the Constitution
Redistricting
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Texas Redistricting Battle
Organizing the Legislative Process
Standing Committees: The Workhorses of the Legislature
What Committees Do
Political Parties and the Legislature
Legislative Leadership
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Makes History
Legislative Rules and Norms
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: The Caning of Senator Charles Sumner
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Bridges to Nowhere?
How a Bill Becomes Law
Making Laws: A Summary
Who Sits in Congress?
Gender
Race and Ethnicity
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Congresswoman Barbara Jordan of Texas
Income and Occupation
Congressional Ethics
Conclusion
7 The Presidency
From Storyteller to Commander in Chief-in Seven Minutes!
Early Concerns about Executive Power
The President and the Constitution
The Constitutional Convention
Article II and Ratification of the Constitution
The Evolution of the Presidency
Models of Presidential Power
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Theodore Roosevelt and the Bully Pulpit
Institutional Changes
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: FDR Takes Charge!
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State and Political Scientist
The Changing Role of the Vice President
Informal Powers of the President
First Ladies
The Many Roles of Modern Presidents
The President as Chief of State
The President as Chief Legislator
The President as Chief Diplomat
The President as Commander in Chief
The President as Chief Executive
Presidential Greatness
Conclusion
8 Bureaucracy
Government and Natural Disasters
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Arsenic Standards for Drinking Water
Organization of the Federal Bureaucracy
Development of the Federal Bureaucracy
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Reorganization of the Bureaucracy
Departments
Independent Agencies, Independent Regulatory Commissions, and Government Corporations
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Joan Claybrook
The Nature of Bureaucracy
The Image of Bureaucracy
The Advantages of Bureaucracy
The Problems of Government Bureaucracy
Reform of the Bureaucracy
The Lobbying Pathway and Policymaking
The Bureaucracy and Legislation
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Jeffrey N. Shane
The Bureaucracy and Information
Regulations
Quasi-Judicial Processes
Oversight and Accountability
Conclusion
Part Three: The American Public and the Democratic Process
9 Political Socialization and Public Opinion
Change in Action: Views of Homosexuality
Public Opinion
Fundamental Values
The Stability of Political Beliefs
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Sexism Reconsidered
The Impact of Popular Culture on Political Opinions and Values
The Power of Popular Culture
From Values to Ideology
PATHWAYS PROFILE: New College Conservatives
Political Socialization
Family
School
Peers and Community
Religion
The Media
Impact of Events
Social Groups and Political Values
Economic Bases of Partisanship and Public Opinion
Education
Religion
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Jim Wallis
Race and Ethnicity
Gender
Measuring Public Opinion
Use of Polls
History of Polling
PATHWAYS PROFILE: George Gallup
Modern Polling Techniques
Survey Research
Controversies Surrounding Polling
Conclusion
10 The Politics of the Media
Media and Cultural Change
Mass Media
History of Mass Media
Print Media
Electronic Media
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Edward R. Murrow
Functions of the Media
Entertainment
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: The Role of Profits
Social Effects of the Media
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Dorothea Lange, Photojournalist
PATHWAYS PROFILE: The Typical Journalist
Political Use of Media
How Politicians Make the News
How Journalists Report the News
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Strategic Use of Leaks
How Groups Use the Media
The Media and the Public in the Political Arena
Media in Campaigns
Global Issues 4
Narrowcasting
Concentration and Centralization of Ownership
Governmental Regulations
The Right to Privacy
Rules regarding Content and Ownership
Challenges Related to the "New Media"
Conclusion
11 Interest Groups, Social movements, and Civil Engagement
Citizens in Action, Rocking the Vote
Activism and Protest in the United States: A Brief History
Influencing the Government through Mobilization and Participation
Constitutional Guarantees for Citizen Activism and Mobilization
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Frederick Douglass
The Role of Interest Groups in the Policy Process
What Are Interest Groups?
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: LULAC
Functions of Interest Groups in a Democratic Society
The Interest Group Explosion
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Ralph Nader
Types of Interest Groups
Bias in Representation: Who Participates?
Difficulties in Mobilization
Overcoming Organizational Barriers
The Role of Interest Group Leaders
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Alice Stokes Paul
Inside and Outside Lobbying
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Recording Artists Coalition
Outside Lobbying
Lobbying Other Groups and Forming Alliances
Grassroots Mobilization
Grassroots Lobbying Tactics
Campaign Activities
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Traditional Volunteers versus Paid Professionals
The Importance of Money in Mobilization
Uses of Money
Fundraising Tactics
Interest Group Influence
The Age of Apathy?
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Youth Groups
Conclusion
12 Elections and Political Participation in America
How Much for That Senate Seat?
Elections and Democratic Theory
Republicanism and Different Ways to Select Leaders
Elections as an Expression of Popular Will
Stability and Legitimacy
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Power of the Purple Finger
Civic Education
Fulfilling One's Civic Duty
A Safety Valve
The Limitations of Elections
Elections as a Placebo
A Poor Measure of Public Sentiment
The Atomization of Politics
Constricting the Pool of Public Officials
A Broken Process?
Elections and the Law
The Electoral College
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Four Winners Who Lost
Amendments to the Constitution and the Electoral Process
Voting and Legislative Acts
Referendums, Initiatives, and Recalls
The Future of the Ballot Initiative as a Pathway of Change
The Role of Money in Elections
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Two Innovative Campaign Operatives
The Rage for Reform
Political Action Committees
The Incumbent Fundraising Advantage
Reforming the Reforms: BCRA
The Ironies of Money and Politics
Levels of Political Participation
The Shrinking Electorate
Why Has Turnout Declined?
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Mark Shields-"This I Believe"
Voting and Demographic Characteristics
Are Young Voters Tuning Out?
Are They Getting the Message? Young Voters in the 2004 and 2006 Elections
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Citizen Change: Puffy Gets Political
Conclusion
13 Political Parties
Religion and Party PoliticS
What Is a Political Party?
Party Functions
The Components of Political Parties
Party-in-Government
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Contract with America
Party-in-the-Electorate
Realignment Theory
Party-as-Organization
Party Eras in American History
Phase 1: The Emergence of Parties in America (1790s-1828)
Phase 2: The Heyday of Parties (1828-1900)
Phase 3: Party Decline (1900-1970s)
Phase 4. Organizational Resurgence (1970s-Present)
Minor Parties in American Politics
Barriers to Minor Party Success
Minor Parties in American History
Minor Parties in the Twenty-First Century
Political Parties and Ideology
The Nomination Process
Different Primary Systems
Presidential Nominations
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Howard Dean's Innovative Internet Campaign
A More Democratic Process?
14 Domestic and Foreign Policy Development
Hooters and Polluters: The Politics of Public Policy
The Nature of Public Policy
Ideas and Values in Public Policy
Freedom
Equality
Political Ideology
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Rachel Carson
Types of Public Policy
The Public Policy Process
Identifying the Problem
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Mothers Against Drunk Driving
Setting an Agenda
Formulating and Legitimizing Policy
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: The Welfare Debate
Implementing Policy
Alternative Views of the Policy Process
The Basics of Economic Policy
Making American Foreign Policy
The Domestic Context
Political Institutions
Foreign Policy in the Years Ahead
Conclusion
15 The Social and Economic Milieu of Texas Politics
Decades of Change and Challenge
Challenges of the Twenty-First Century
Texas Myths
The Political Culture of Texas
The Individualistic Subculture
The Moralistic Subculture
The Traditionalistic Subculture
Historical Origins of Political Subcultures
The People of Texas
Native Americans
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: What's in a Name?
Hispanics
African Americans
Anglos
Asian Americans
Politics, Race, and Ethnicity
The Political Implications of Demographics
Population Increase
The Aging Population
Urbanization
Population Density
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Do Size and Geography Shape Texas Politics?
Wealth and Income Distribution
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Texas Compared to Other States
Education and Literacy
The Economy of Texas
Economic Regions of Texas
Transnational Regionalism
Maquiladoras 6
The North American Free Trade Agreement
Trade Patterns between Texas and Mexico
Common Borders, Common Problems
Illegal Immigration
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Complexity of the Illegal Immigration Issue
16 The Texas Constitution
The Constitutional Legacy
The Texas Constitution in a Comparative Perspective
The Constitution of Coahuila y Tejas (1827)
The Constitution of the Republic of Texas (1836)
The Constitution of 1845
The Civil War Constitution (1861)
The Constitution of 1866
The Reconstruction Constitution (1869)
The Constitution of 1876: Retrenchment and Reform
General Principles of the Texas Constitution
Weaknesses and Criticisms of the Constitution of 1876
Executive Branch
Legislative Branch
Judicial Branch
Education
Budgeting and Finances
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Budget Restrictions
Individual Rights
Consequences of Details
Constitutional Change and Adaptation
Amendment
PATHWAYS PROFILE: A Lot of Trouble for a Minor Office
Constitutional Convention
Constitutional Reform Efforts of 1971-1975
Further Piecemeal Reforms
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: High Stakes over Lawsuits
Constitutional Provisions, Interest Groups, and Elites
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Adding a Little Flavor to the Constitution
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Oops! How Did That Happen?
Change through Court Interpretation
Constitutional Restraints and the Ability to Govern
17 Interest Groups, Political Parties, and Elections in Texas
The Power of Interest Groups
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Should We Regulate the Type and Number of Conferences Legislators Attend?
Pluralism or Elitism?
Dominant Interest Groups in Texas
Business Groups
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Do Lobbyists Represent the Average Citizen?
Professional Groups
Education Groups
Public Interest Groups
Minority-Interest Groups
Organized Labor Groups
Government Lobbyists
Agriculture Groups
Religious Groups
PATHWAYS PROFILE: The Religious Right and Republican Growth
The Development of a Two-Party System in Texas
One-Party Democratic Politics
Factionalism in the Democratic Party
Two-Party Politics in Texas
Toward Republican Dominance
Third Parties
Changing Patterns of Party Support and Identification
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Where Have All the Yellow Dogs Gone?
The Party Organization
The Permanent Organization
Temporary Organizations
Precinct Conventions
County or Senatorial District Conventions
State Conventions
Parties and Government
Minorities and Political Participation
Political Gains by Minorities and Women
Hispanics
African Americans
Women
Elections in Texas
Primary Elections
General Elections
City, School Board, and Single-Purpose District Elections
Special Elections
Extended Absentee Balloting
Campaign Finances
Campaign Costs
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Karl Rove: An Adviser in High Places
Fundraising
Political Action Committees and Fat Cats
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Bob Perry: Homebuilder and Big Contributor
Attempts at Reform
18 The Texas Legislature
Legislative Functions
Enacting Laws
Budgets and Taxes
Overseeing State Agencies
Educating the Public
Representing the Public
Institutionalization of the Texas Legislature
Organization and Composition of the Texas Legislature
Legislative Sessions
Terms of Office and Qualifications
Pay and Compensation
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: What Should a Legislator Be Paid?
Physical Facilities
Membership and Careers
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Gregory Luna and Irma Rangel
Legislative Turnover
Representation and Redistricting
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Partisanship and Rules of the 2003 Redistricting Battle
Legislative Leadership
House Leadership
Senate Leadership
Influence and Control over the Legislative Process
Leadership Teams
The Committee System
Standing Committees
Standing Subcommittees
Conference Committees
Special Committees
Rules and Procedures
How a Bill Becomes a Law
Procedural Obstacles to Legislation
Shortcuts, Obfuscation, and Confusion
The Emerging Party System
The Growth of Partisanship
Republicans Take Control
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Arlene Wohlgemuth's "Memorial Day Massacre"
Other Legislative Caucuses
Legislators and Their Constituents
Legislative Decision Making
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Legislative Reputation, Power and Influence
The Development of Legislative Staff
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: The Sharpstown Stock Fraud Scandal
Legislative Ethics and Reforms
19 The Texas Executive and Bureaucracy
The Structure of the Plural Executive
The Governor
Background and Requirements for Governorship
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Governor Bill Clements
Impeachment and Incapacitation
Salary and Perks of the Office
Legislative Powers of the Governor
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Governor Ann Richards
Budgetary Powers of the Governor
Appointive and Removal Powers of the Governor
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Governor George W. Bush
Judicial Powers of the Governor
Military Powers of the Governor
Informal Resources of the Governor
The Governor's Staff
The Governor and the Mass Media
The Governor and the Political Party
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Governor Rick Perry
The Governor and Interest Groups
Other Offices of the Executive Branch
Lieutenant Governor
Attorney General
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Attorney General Dan Morales and the Tobacco Settlement
Comptroller of Public Accounts
Commissioner of the General Land Office
Commissioner of Agriculture
Secretary of State
State Treasurer
Elected Boards and Commissions
Texas Railroad Commission
State Board of Education
The Texas Bureaucracy
The Growth of Government in Texas
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Texas State Treasurer
Bureaucrats and Public Policy
Policy Implementation
Obstacles to Policy Implementation
Strategies for Controlling the Bureaucracy
The Revolving Door
Legislative Budgetary Control
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: What Can Happen to a Whistleblower
Sunset Legislation
Performance Reviews
Merit Systems and Professional Management
20 The Texas Judiciary
The State Courts in the Federal System
The Legal Framework of the Judicial System
The Structure of the Texas Court System
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Criminal Justice-an Expensive Headache
Courts of Limited Jurisdiction
County Courts
Courts of General Jurisdiction
Intermediate Courts of Appeals
The Highest Appellate Courts
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Steve Mansfield
Texas Judges
Other Participants in the State Judiciary
Efforts to Reform the Judicial System
The Jury System
The Grand Jury
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Is This Any Way to Round up a Jury
The Petit Jury
Judicial Procedures and Decision Making
Judicial Concerns and Controversies
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: A Huge Injustice in Tulia
Judicial Activism
Judicial Impropriety
Campaign Contributions and Republican Gains
Legislative Reaction to Judicial Activism
Winners and Losers
Minorities and the Judicial System
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: An Attack on Affirmative Action
Minority Judicial Appointments
Women in the Judiciary
The Search for Solutions
Crime and Punishment
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: More Is Involved than Technicalities
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Can Justice Afford a Nap?
The Politics of Criminal Justice
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Justice Delayed, Justice Denied?
The Increased Policy Role of the State Courts
The Courts and Education
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: The Constitution Is for Everybody
The Courts and Abortion Rights
The Courts and Gay Rights
21 Local Government in Texas
Local Governments in the Texas Political System
Municipal Government in Texas
General-Law and Home Rule Cities
Forms of City Government in Texas
Mayor-Council
City Commission
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Does the Form of City Government Make Any Difference?
Council-Manager
Municipal Election Systems 8
Nonpartisan City Elections
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: Is This Any Way to Change a City Charter?
At-Large Elections 8
Single-Member Districts
Legal Attacks on At-Large Elections
PATHWAYS OF ACTION: What Type of Electoral System Produces the Most Responsive City Council?
City Revenues and Expenditures
Urban Problems in Texas
The Graying of Texas Cities
"White Flight"
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Ron Kirk and Lee Brown
Declining Infrastructures
Crime and Urban Violence
State- and Federally Mandated Programs
PATHWAYS PROFILE: The Job of the City Council Member
County Government in Texas
Structure of County Government
The Commissioners Court and County Judge
County Clerk
District Clerk
County and District Attorneys
PATHWAYS PROFILE: Ronnie Earle
Tax Assessor-Collector
County Law Enforcement
County Auditor
County Treasurer
Criticisms of County Government
Special Districts in Texas
Functions and Structures
Consequences of Single-Purpose Districts
Independent School Districts
Inequities in the Public Education System
Local School Governance
Councils of Government
Solutions to the Problems of Local Government
Privatization of Functions
Annexation and Extraterritorial Jurisdiction
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: The Annexation Powers of Texas
Home Rule Cities
Modernization of County Government
Economic Development
PATHWAYS PAST AND PRESENT: Abatements
Interlocal Contracting
Metro Government and Consolidation
Public Improvement Districts
Appendices
1 Declaration of Independence of the Thirteen Colonies
2 The Constitution of the United States
3 The Federalist, No. 10, James Madison
4 The Federalist, No. 51, James Madison
5 The Gettysburg Address, Abraham Lincoln
6 I Have a Dream, Martin Luther King
7 Presidents and Congresses
8 Supreme Court Justices
9 ABC News Video Student Guide
Glossary
Notes
Credits
Index