POLITICS is about the competition between ideas, the vocalization of interests, and the resolution of issues. POLITICS is all around us, and affects us all. It is crucial that we think about politics in an open and critical manner.

The editors assembled this wide-ranging set of readings to develop your knowledge and appreciation of the complexity and importance of contemporary politics, both Canadian and International. We all have our own ideas, interests, and issues in political life. The readings in this book will confirm or challenge yours. This reader will also develop the skills that you'll need as a post-secondary student such as:

• The ability to digest and understand material. Each section of the reader provides a short summary of the key arguments, and a set of questions that stimulate you to think from the perspective of a political scientist.
• Seeing the practical application of what you learn. This book contains definitions and explanations of key concepts but also gives you insights into what these terms really mean for everyday use.
• Appreciating the importance of diverse thinking. These readings use very different writing styles and approaches and all add to the richness of debates and ideas.
• Keeping your mind open to all kinds of potential sources of useful information for your courses. There is no single place to get it. These readings come from many sources: academic journals, periodicals, speeches, and books.