Politics of Latin America: The Power Game - Hardcover

Vanden, Harry E.; Prevost, Gary

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0195123166 ISBN 13: 9780195123166

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 2001

Synopsis

Employing a political realist approach, Vanden and Prevost focus on who wields the power in Latin American countries, who controls the policymaking process, and who benefits from policy decisions. To shed some light on the reasons for the current political situation, the book also incorporates an analysis of the factors that influence the exercise of power; the historic traditions of the region as a whole and each country in particular; the nature and composition of classes and society; national and international political economies; and the changing roles of key interest groups. Politics in Latin America: The Power Game consists of four sections. Part One lays the groundwork for understanding Latin America as a whole, as well as each independent region. Part Two addresses the important themes necessary to understand contemporary Latin American politics. Part Three provides case studies of Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Cuba, Nicaragua, Chile, Peru, Guatemala, and Costa Rica, all written by experts on each particular country. Part Four examines Latin American international relations, with particular emphasis on U.S.-Latin American relations and Latin American attempts to chart a more independent course. A final chapter provides a brief summary and speculations about future developments in the region.

About this title

About the Author:

Harry E. Vanden, Professor of Political Science and International Studies, University of South Florida. Gary Prevost, Professor of Political Science, St. John's University.

Review:

"The distinct advantage of Politics of Latin America, Sixth Edition, is its attention to intersectionality. It treats race and gender in a very integrated and holistic manner. The book will also appeal to those who want a good overview of politics and history with a representative sample of country cases."

--Erica Townsend-Bell, Oklahoma State University

"The interdisciplinary nature of Politics of Latin America--especially its interplay of history, geography, the economy, and social forces--makes it a distinct innovation in the field. I would most definitely recommend it to a colleague."

--Daniel S Haworth, University of Houston, Clear Lake

This text combines three essential elements: theory, salient themes, and case studies written by specialists. It provides a solid context for the region that permits students to better understand Latin America's political development and current politics."

--Maria R. Garcia-Acevedo, California State University, Northridge

"Politics of Latin America, Sixth Edition, has a significant number of both thematic chapters and case-study chapters, which gives professors a lot of flexibility."

--Megan Sholar, Loyola University of Chicago

About this edition

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 0195123166
• ISBN 13: 9780195123166
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 560