Profound social changes have made governance and political leadership more challenging than ever. The result is that politics in the democratic world faces a crisis in the 21st century. The revised edition of this highly successful text reassesses the gap between citizen expectation and the realities of government in light of new developments.

Introduction PART ONE MASS DEMOCRACY: TRIUMPH AND DISAPPOINTMENT 1. The Triumph of Democracy? 2. Global Dissatisfaction with Politics 3. Explanations for Political Disenchantment 4. The Politics of Mass Democracies: Designed-In Disappointment? PART TWO THE PATHOLOGIES OF POLITICAL PRACTICE 5. The Decline of Citizen Engagement? 6. The Professionalization of Activism and Multi-Speed Activism 7. The Dangers of Cynicism 8. The Perils of Populism PART THREE SEARCHING FOR SOLUTIONS 9. Politics for Amateurs 10. Reviving Political Institutions 11. Creating a New Civic Arena Conclusions.

'A contemporary classic. This second edition is, just like the first, ahead of the debate. It brings together the very latest empirical findings to offer a plethora of fresh insights into perhaps our greatest current political problem - that of citizen disaffection and disengagement.' - Colin Hay, Sciences Po, Paris, France 'Written in an accessible and digestible style, this book addresses fundamental issues about democracy that are important for any student of politics to engage with.' - Wyn Grant, University of Warwick, UK 'A great overview of politics that will be enjoyed by students and engaged citizens alike... it tackles big questions in a way that is grounded in the discipline and yet accessible.' - Paul Taggart, University of Sussex, UK