America at Odds - Softcover

Sidlow, Edward I.; Henschen, Beth

2.71

14 ratings by Goodreads

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0495501085 ISBN 13: 9780495501084

Publisher: Wadsworth Publishing, 2008

View all copies of this ISBN edition:

Known for its provocative and engaging issues approach, AMERICA AT ODDS, 6e, now features a groundbreaking new magazine-style format that greatly enhances its visual appeal and readability while remaining affordable and convenient. This unique text provides a memorable and effective introduction to American government by focusing on the current and historical conflicts and controversies that define America as a nation. AMERICA AT ODDS combines compelling content, innovative design elements, and powerful teaching tools to help you discover and refine your opinions through active discussion and debate of essential topics in American government and politics.

"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.

About the Author:

Edward Sidlow is professor of political science at Eastern Michigan University, and is also EMU's Faculty Representative to the NCAA. Sidlow received his Ph.D. from Ohio State University in 1979. He teaches broadly in the area of American politics, and has published two books on Congress in addition to numerous articles in professional journals. Prior to his work at EMU, Sidlow served on the faculties of Arizona State University, Miami (OH) University, and Northwestern University, and was an academic administrator at Loyola University Chicago. He has won awards for outstanding teaching at Miami, Northwestern, and EMU, and is often called upon by print and electronic media for political analysis.

Review:

"One of the most attractive things about the book is that it focuses on the conflictual nature of politics in a democracy. This focus makes the book more dynamic (American government isn't just a sterile description of formal institutions), and it sends an important message to students. Many students get turned off to politics because they see politicians engaged in what seems like pointless arguing, instead of looking out for the 'common good.' I want them to understand that conflict is natural in a democracy, that it is a healthy thing. The theme of the book fits perfectly with what I want to emphasize to my students."

"I would describe America at Odds as a comprehensive, yet concise look at the fundamentals of American Government. The exceptional features of the book are its opening vignettes in pro-con format and its focus on the centrality of conflict in American politics."

"The various vignettes in each chapter (Where Do You Stand?, Why Does It Matter?, Perception vs. Reality, and American and Comparative Political Perspectives) are outstanding ways of connecting the principles discussed in the chapters with 'real work,' current issues."

"The three strengths of the book are its web-friendliness (not only are there several web sites for students to conduct research with, but the 'Where Do You Stand?' questions that appear at the beginning of each chapter are excellent to use for on-line discussions), the use of examples, and the available ancillaries. The test bank is excellent."

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.