Democracy in California: Politics and Government in the Golden State - Hardcover

Review of previous edition: In their succinct, highly-readable, and now updated guide to California politics, Janiskee and Masugi provide a historical overview and contemporary account of the major constitutional features, governmental arrangements, fiscal practices, and diverse social characteristics of the Golden State. Aiming high, they consciously model their Democracy in California on Tocqueville's Democracy in America. They offer thoughtful meditations on Tocqueville's insights into the principles, problems, and prospects of democratic life. Their aim is uncannily accurate. This is an indispensable book for anyone wishing to understand and assess the successes and failures of California politics and government. -- Ralph A. Rossum, Claremont McKenna College Review of previous edition: Janiskee and Masugi have done it again..., producing a cogent analysis of California politics that is both timely and rooted in historical context. With tight prose and thorough research, it shows how Progressivism continues to shape state politics, with results that are often far from progressive. This book is a wonderful brief introduction to the not-always-golden politics of the Golden State. -- John J. Pitney Jr., Roy P. Crocker Professor of American Politics, Claremont McKenna College

Democracy in California: Politics and Government in the Golden State is a readable and thought-provoking textbook, which clearly explains the politics and character of California's governmental institutions and the dynamics affecting the lives of Californians. In addition to thorough coverage of California's constitution and development, this book also examines each branch of government as well as local systems. As Janiskee and Masugi explore the nature of public opinion, parties, and campaigns, they show the effects that the state's diverse population has on all levels of politics and government. The fourth edition is updated throughout and includes analysis of the 2012 and 2014 elections and discussion of recent events such as immigration reform, Jerry Brown s second term, the new primary election system, revised term limits, and the revision of the three strikes law. New case studies in each chapter bring ideas to life and challenge students to become active participants in California politics. Perfect for courses in American government and state and local politics, Democracy in California is a succinct guide to the governmental intricacies of our nation's most populous state."