Major political science scholar Duncan Watts offers a fresh, up-to-date look at U.S. government and politics, demystifying the key terms used to discuss the political system and describing prominent figures, events, ideas, movements, and Supreme Court cases relevant to the study of American political life. Watts doesn't shy away from controversial issues and debate, especially within the academic study of American politics. He presents four hundred comprehensive, cross-referenced entries that provide a thorough analysis of the subject.