The British Polity is an engaging and comprehensive survey of the structure and process of British government. Offering an insider's analysis, Philip Norton examines the debates surrounding Britain's political history and culture, constitution, parties and elections, branches of government, media, and relations with the European Union. Throughout, The British Polity follows a theme of continuity and change that draws on historical and institutional knowledge and that helps to explain contemporary British politics.
Part I: Introduction 1. The Contemporary Landscape 2. The Political Culture 3. Past and Present: Historical Perspective and Legacies Part II: The Political Environment 4. The Uncodified Constitution 5. The Electoral System: Campaigns, Voting, and Voters 6. Political Parties: More or Less than a Two-Party System? 7. Interest Groups: Insiders or Outsiders? Part III: Governmental Decision Making 8. The Executive: Government at the Center 9. The European Union: Government above the Center 10. The New Assemblies: Government beyond the Center 11. Local Government: Government below the Center Part IV: Scrutiny and Legitimation 12. Parliament: Commons and Lords 13. The Monarchy: Above the Fray? Part V: Enforcement and Feedback 14. Enforcement: The Courts and the Police 15. Communication and Feedback: The Mass Media Part VI: Conclusion 16. Future Directions: The Polity under Challenge
