The Politics of Power: A Critical Introduction to American Government

by Ira Katznelson

This text provides a comprehensive description of the American political system, including major political institutions, processes, and policies. Unlike other introductory American politics textbooks, it develops a critical analysis of how American democracy is limited by fundamental inequalities in power and economic resources. The book highlights the connections between American politics and the organization of the economy. This fourth edition retains the author's critical perspective, describing American politics during the Clinton presidency and policy changes initiated in the Bush presidency.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction, College

425 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1975

Reviews

[Stephen · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was first introduced to this book by a collectivist professor back in college. I found it intriguing at first, but soon realized it was only so much drivel. Unless you think socialism is tenable, you probably will have a tough time getting past the second chapter without throwing the book across the room and into the fireplace.

I enjoy books written by those who hold views in opposition to my own, but only if they are well written and well reasoned. This book is mediocre on the first part and abysmal on the second. I imagine the arguments (if you can call them that) this book contains are only persuasive to the blank slates out there or those already meandering down the road of socialist ideology.

Here's a sample quote from the second chapter on "Global Capitalism and American Politics" for you to consider:

Not only is wage labor the characteristic form that labor takes within a capitalist society, but also relations within the workplace and the economy as a whole are highly undemocratic...Within the entire economy, those who own and control companies decide what to produce, where to produce it, and how to produce it. It is often claimed that this authoritarian situation is the price that must be paid to achieve maximum efficiency.

[Chris brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

first three chapters were required reading for a political science class, just finished.

if you are a conservative, middle to upper class, white, male in favor of smaller government & an unrestricted business sector, or identify with those idéologies; you won't like this book.

[Wendy · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was required reading for a college political science class. The book is heavily biased in favor of liberals and socialists. I am neither of those and therefore this book was a chore for me to read.

[Alex · Rating 3 out of 5]

Left-leaning, slightly bland, but solid, factual information.