This revised and updated edition provides the reader with a comprehensive description and analysis of the institutions of the German political system. The historical development of German politics is surveyed, and special attention is given to the causes, course and consequences of German reunification. Where more detailed explanations of special topics are required, such as surplus seats in the electoral system, or the political career of Chancellor Merkel, these are provided in boxes set within the relevant chapters. Some information is provided in tabular form, such as the list of federal chancellors and federal presidents, the membership of trade unions, or election results. Appendices contain examples of important constitutional court cases, plus a survey of the political features of the sixteen Lander which make up the federal structure of the state. Each chapter offers suggestions for further reading.

Accessibly written, with suggestions for further reading, this book offers a sound basis for all undergraduate courses focused on, or including, study of the German political system. The author's familiarity with all aspects of the German political system is evident from the authority with which he explains the structures and processes which form the basis of German politics.

About the Author
Geoffrey K. Roberts is Honorary Research Fellow in the Department of Government, University of Manchester

Reviews
On the first edition:'Roberts offers a lucid, balanced, reliable, and informative guide to the German political system, analysing its historical origins, its evolution over a period of fifty years, and not least its successful adjustment in the 1990s to the challenges of reunification. As a textbook for students who require a systematic, succinct and focused approach to the main features of contemporary Germany's widely admired democratic system this scholarly volume is certain to find many grateful readers.'Professor Ian Wallace, University of Bath



Book Information
ISBN 9780719078668
Author Geoffrey Roberts
Format Paperback
Page Count 264
Imprint Manchester University Press
Publisher Manchester University Press