Contemporary Politics in Australia: Theories, Practices and IssuesRodney Smith, Ariadne Vromen, Ian Cook Contemporary Politics in Australia provides a lively and wide-ranging introduction to the study of Australian politics. Written by a diverse range of experts, the book offers a comprehensive overview of current theories, debates and research in Australian political science and looks forward to new developments. It encompasses not only formal and institutionally based politics, but also the informal politics of everyday life, including the politics of Australian culture and media. The book is divided into six key sections that cover: • political theory • politics in everyday Australian life • elections • participation and representation • the Australian state • contemporary political and public policy issues Contemporary Politics in Australia challenges the assumption that the study of Australian politics can be dry, descriptive or uncontroversial. Rather, it encourages an understanding of politics in Australia as contested ground. Featuring a glossary of key terms and a companion website, it is essential reading for students. |
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activity approach argue Australian Capital Territory Australian Constitution Australian Democrats Australian government Australian politics behaviouralists Bill of Rights campaign cent challenges Chapter citizens climate change Coalition Commonwealth compulsory voting constitutional contemporary contest critical theories cultural debate decision-making decisions democracy democratic discourse Discussion questions dominant economic election electoral elite engage environmental example factors federal focus Further reading global government’s Howard ideology important Indigenous Australians individuals influence institutionalism interests issues Kevin Rudd leaders legislative liberal liberal democracies major parties Marxists McAllister neo-liberal norms Northern Territory organisations parliament parliamentary participation participatory people’s policy-making political parties political socialisation politicisation post-structuralism pressure groups prime minister prime ministerial public policy public servants public service Queensland reform relations relationship representation representative representative democracy responsibility role Rudd sector Senate social society South Wales structures Territory understanding urban voters voting welfare WorkChoices