Now in its fourth edition, this textbook gives a clear and concise account of the government and politics of democratic states, comprehensively updated with recent developments. The ideal guide for undergraduate students who want to understand how and why democratic systems differ between countries and how they are changing in the modern world. 'This book does what it says on the cover: it provides an excellent guide to the foundations of comparative democratic politics. It states concepts clearly and provides up to date examples, data and topics for debate.' Richard Rose, Professor of Politics, University of Strathclyde, and author of How Referendums Challenge European Democracy: Brexit and Beyond