Critical Concepts: An Introduction to Politics

by Janine Brodie (Editor), Sandra Rein (editor), Malinda S. Smith (editor)

Now in its fifth edition, Critical An Introduction
to Politics challenges readers by exploring current political
issues and ethical dilemmas. Focusing on fundamental concepts in
political science, each chapter provides readers with the critical
perspectives needed to analyze the major issues we face and how
political science as a discipline helps us to make sense of
them.

        The objective of
this edition remains the same as previous to introduce
readers to the fundamentals of political science, to engage them
with key and enduring debates, and to explore both conceptual
continuities and shifts in a world marked by growing insecurity,
political upheaval, and global tensions. Critical Concepts
remains a contributed volume that draws on the expertise of many
well-known and respected Canadian political scientists.

The Companion Website is not included with the purchase of
this product.

Genres: Politics, Political Science, Textbooks

400 pages, Paperback

First published January 28, 1999

Reviews

[S. Alberto ঌ⁻⁷ (semi-active, always yearning) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can you tell I’m taking a spring term POLS course? Because yeah... I am. 😅

This textbook is solid (6th Edition). Functional, straightforward, and does exactly what it needs to: define the key concepts and give you just enough context to understand how they actually play out in the world of politics. It's not trying to be flashy—it's trying to make sure you know the difference between liberalism and neoliberalism before you embarrass yourself in a seminar. Mission accomplished.

What I appreciated most is that it doesn’t just throw terms at you—it gives you a general grasp of how these ideas are applied, which is honestly essential if you’re planning to stick around in poli sci. Whether you're just starting out or refreshing your brain mid-degree (hi), this is the kind of foundational text that actually holds up.

Four stars because while it’s not reinventing the wheel, it’s sturdy, reliable, and gets you where you need to go. Like the academic equivalent of a dependable pair of sneakers.

[Oluduo Nathaniel]

Very interesting

[Ana Tanase · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good intro to politics, broad yet oddly specific. I recommend it to everyone in order to have an idea about how the world works.

[Peyton McDade]

Read for POLISCI 1020E: Introduction to Political Science