Power and Choice: An Introduction to Political Science

A truly comparative introduction to political science that reflects the diversity of approaches to the discipline
Power & Choice offers an in-depth look into the nuances of politics through the analysis of collective choices for a group or state through the use of power. Organized topically and using extended case examples from around the world, Power & Choice provides undergraduate students with a clear and engaging introduction to political science and comparative politics.
The 16th Edition has been updated to address the issues raised by the covid-19 pandemic, as well as the impact the Trump and Biden presidencies have had so far upon the world and its democracies, including challenges in states such as Hungary where illiberal democracy and nationalism are on the rise. The authors have also included discussion of the impact of the death of George Floyd upon race relations in America, and how issues such as growing inequality are impacting politics. This edition adds examination of women’s economic development and the rising importance of LGBTQ issues globally.

W. Phillips Shively is professor of political science at the University of Minnesota. He is the author of The Craft of Political Research, 10th edition(2017), as well as numerous articles on elections and methods of analysis.

David Schultz is Distinguished University Professor in the departments of political science, environmental studies, and legal studies at Hamline University. He is also a professor of law at the University of Minnesota. David has a JD and LLM in law, a PhD in political science, and a MS in astronomy. A three-time Fulbright scholar who has taught extensively in Europe and Asia, and the winner of the Leslie A. Whittington national award for excellence in public affairs teaching, David is the author of more than 35 books and over 200 articles on various aspects of American politics, election law, and the media and politics, and he is regularly interviewed and quoted in the local, national, and international media. His most recent books are Encyclopedia of Money in American Politics (2018) and Presidential Swing States (2018). Prior to teaching, Professor Schultz also served as a city director of code enforcement, zoning, and planning in Binghamton, NY, and worked as a housing and economic planner for a community action agency.