Through this book the authors show students that examining components of a (that of the US) political system comparatively allows political scientists to better see and learn the ways in which government is unique as well as see how other democracies function differently and successfully. This learning through contrast not only enriches students' understanding of their own political system, but this comparative context has become increasingly important as students see themselves as global citizens, competing and engaging in what is truly a globalized world and workforce. Unfortunately few American government texts offer much in the way of comparison to other countries and comparative politics books don't always situate the US in their analysis. This book fills that void with a crisply written and brief supplement. --Provided by publisher.