"Comparative Politics: A Policy Approach is a unique text that integrates a comprehensive study of eight nations with critical policy issues facing those nations. The individual chapters on the United States, the United Kingdom, the Russian Federation, Japan, China, Mexico, South Africa, and Iraq provide a wide ranging examination of nations that are representative of the diversity in decision-making frameworks and political development in the international community. Comparative Politics is designed to guide the reader through a series of discussions in each nation's history, including: Key political milestones The structure of government The relationship of citizen to state The role played by political parties, groups and elections The shape and influence of the political elite The current status of the political economy The future direction of the nation in a global environment To further the goals of Comparative Politics, this book features in every chapter: Policy Briefs outlining the policy issues and debates in the forefront of the governing agenda ""Point of Fact"" items highlighting observations and sidebars on politics and life in each country Boxed features providing deeper commentary and factual information"