French Politics: Debates and Controversies

Description

French Politics presents basic information about the French political system, and analyses in detail the most important debates and controversies concerning French politics today. This accessible study explores the numerous ways in which French politics can be interpreted, concluding that study of this subject is being transformed in response to a changing global, European and domestic environment. Elgie and Griggs provide an overview of contemporary controversies in the field, examining topical issues of the late twentieth century. Includes coverage of: * the changing parameters of state intervention * the relationship between president and prime minister * interpretations of voting behaviour * the nature of interest group politics * the impact of moves towards European integration. French Politics highlights the disagreements between those who write about French politics, and argues that these debates are often based on radically conflicting interpretations of the French political process. The book examines the opposing viewpoints and identifies the differences between them, thus providing the student with a comprehensive introduction to the study of French political life. This thorough, comprehensive study is an essential resource for students and scholars of French politics.

Robert Elgie is Senior Lecturer in Politics at the University of Nottingham. He has published widely in the field of French, European and comparative politics. His previous publications include The Role of the Prime Minister in France and Semi-Presidentialism in Europe. Steven Griggs is Senior Lecturer in Public Policy at Staffordshire University. He has published widely in journals including West European Politics, Parliamentary Affairs and Modern and Contemporary France.