Comparative Politics provides an exciting and authoritative introduction to one of the most important fields of political science. International experts explore the methods and theories of comparative politics as well as the institutions, actors, processes, and policies at the heart of political systems around the world. Alongside explanation of the most important themes, students are presented with a wealth of empirical data to demonstrate similarities and differences in practice, and to encourage research. By focusing on industrial and developing countries, together with political bodies and systems above and below the level of the nation state, Comparative Politics provides a fully comprehensive and up-to-date account of the discipline. The second edition of this successful textbook is also supported by an innovative Online Resource Centre with the following features for students and lecturers: Student Resources: Comparative data sets for over 200 countries - files can be used for empirical analysis, essay writing and lab exercises Web directory of data archives Country comparator Review questions and exercises Flashcard glossary Country profiles Instructor Resources: PowerPoint slides Test bank Figures and tables from the book