French Politics and Society - Softcover

Praise for the previous edition:

‘Cole has achieved the rare feat of producing a study of French politics and society that is both an invaluable tool for teaching and an impressive contribution to the ability of his fellow-academics to interpret the factors that shape France currently, and that will do so in the foreseeable future.’ Gino Raymond, University of Bristol, UK

Praise for this edition:

‘A very welcome revised and updated edition of this essential textbook which addresses many enduring questions about France and poses new ones. Alistair Cole draws on his incomparable knowledge of French politics and society to offer wide-ranging and accessible factual coverage blended with fine insights and analyses. A must-have book for students of modern and contemporary France.’ James Shields, Aston University, UK

‘This new edition of Alistair Cole’s classic book is to be greatly welcomed. The fully revised and updated edition of French Politics and Society remains a fresh and exciting text that combines a broad empirical scope with a clear thesis about the direction of Contemporary France. It is invaluable for students and scholars alike.’ Jean-Michel Eymeri-Douzans, Sciences Po, Toulouse, France.

‘The 3rd edition of French Politics and Society provides a highly readable introduction that covers all the bases. It provides a quick primer on the country’s history and a deeper understanding of its institutions, while also engaging hot-button contemporary issues. This book offers a terrific overview for students of France.’ Erik Bleich, Middlebury College, USA.

French Politics and Society is the ideal companion for all students of France and French politics with a strong reputation for its lucidity and lively exposition of the French polity. This third edition remains a highly readable text and offers a broad, critical and comprehensive understanding of French politics.

The book provides an excellent description of French institutions and ensures readers access to background information through discussing historical developments, political forces, public policy, and the evolution of important aspects of French society.

Key updates for the third edition include:

• extensive updates including the Chirac, Sarkozy and Hollande presidencies;
• inclusion of constitutional and state reform coverage since 2008;
• the French party system and evolution of the French left and right;
• more on France’s positioning with regards to Brussels and the impact of the European economic crisis.

French Politics and Society is essential reading for all undergraduates studying French politics, French studies, European studies or comparative politics.