Explaining Politics: Culture, Institutions, and Political Behavior

This unique text offers a comprehensive overview of who participates in politics and why, how social and political institutions shape that involvement, and, ultimately, what form citizen political participation takes. Drawing on a multitude of factors to explain politics and political behaviour, Woshinsky shows that political outcomes depend on a complex interplay between individuals and their environment. Psychology, personality, and ideology, together with culture, institutions, and social context shape political behaviour. Explaining Politics offers a wealth of comparative examples and practical applications through a lively and engaging narrative.

Oliver H. Woshinsky is Professor Emeritus at the University of Southern Maine and author of several previous books. He has taught undergraduates for over three decades and has lived and taught in France, Russia, and Great Britain.