Why Parties?: A Second Look

Chicago Studies in American Politics

by John H. Aldrich

Since its first appearance fifteen years ago, Why Parties? has become essential reading for anyone wishing to understand the nature of American political parties. In the interim, the party system has undergone some radical changes. In this landmark book, now rewritten for the new millennium, John H. Aldrich goes beyond the clamor of arguments over whether American political parties are in resurgence or decline and undertakes a wholesale reexamination of the foundations of the American party system.

Surveying critical episodes in the development of American political parties—from their formation in the 1790s to the Civil War—Aldrich shows how they serve to combat three fundamental problems of democracy: how to regulate the number of people seeking public office, how to mobilize voters, and how to achieve and maintain the majorities needed to accomplish goals once in office. Aldrich brings this innovative account up to the present by looking at the profound changes in the character of political parties since World War II, especially in light of ongoing contemporary transformations, including the rise of the Republican Party in the South, and what those changes accomplish, such as the Obama Health Care plan. Finally, Why Parties? A Second Look offers a fuller consideration of party systems in general, especially the two-party system in the United States, and explains why this system is necessary for effective democracy.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction, Social Science, Political Science, History, Grad School

400 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2011

Reviews

[Delaney Barghols · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Why Parties" by John Aldrich is a compelling dive into the intricate world of political parties, offering readers a nuanced understanding of their role in the democratic process. Aldrich's analytical approach and keen insights make this book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the dynamics of American politics. Aldrich challenges conventional wisdom by presenting parties as endogenous institutions shaped by the ambitions of political actors. His argument that parties are tools wielded by politicians seeking a successful political career and policy objectives provides a fresh perspective on their function in the democratic system. While Aldrich's insights are valuable, some readers may find the book challenging due to its academic nature and theoretical depth. The theoretical framework and extensive use of political science terminology might be a bit overwhelming for those seeking a more casual exploration of the subject. While not a light read, it rewards those willing to engage with its theoretical underpinnings. I've given it four stars, as it offers substantial intellectual content, although a slightly more approachable writing style would have made it a perfect five-star read.

[Sean Hendricks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really took a lot from the few chapters I read. The pen fades as he writes in my opinion, but the first chapters do an excellent job of explaining the origin of parties and how their formation moved American politics forward in the late 18th-century. He also does a good of explaining the macroscopic effects of the corrupt bargain, which is often left to be understood. I think Aldrich lacks a concise message, but he teaches us valuable lesson of how the modern parties formed, why we need(ed?) them, and what makes them look the way they do. Many gripe about the two-party system, but few offer a solution. The first step to doing so is understanding the utility of these institutions.

[Annie Jarman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Claims parties = endogenous creations of ambitious office-holders and office-seekers. grounded in rational choice theory. Creating parties solves a series of problems that legislators in an institution-free legislature would face: collective action problems in policymaking, social choice problems in policymaking, collective action problems in electoral mobilization, and the problems faced by ambitious policymakers trying to succeed in electoral politics. I especially like chapter 6's theory on why parties are distinct on policy and don't follow median voter theorem

[Reaghan Ard]

read for class!

[Zach Agamalian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good and insightful

[Reaghan Ard]

read for my political parties and interest groups course

[Dylan Groves · Rating 4 out of 5]

parties solve problems: collective, social, and the politicians

[Nate Huston · Rating 3 out of 5]

A classic to be sure. If you want to know about the development and operation of political parties in the US, start here. You don't have to agree with Aldrich's theory, but it's well thought out, clearly articulated, and provides a great foundation for further thought.

I could have done without the historical interpretation of the initial formation of American parties - the assertions simply aren't that convincing. Furthermore, I don't think it's necessary for the meat of his work. While the origin story (as description) is enlightening, the attempt to test his theory using it falls flat.

All in all, an enjoyable and thought-provoking read.

[Wes · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good and concise history of the party system in the United States, and a rational model for its development.