Suchergebnisse

This impressive collection of essays by many renowned scholars was compiled in honor of Richard F. Fenno's contribution to legislative studies. Utilizing various approaches to examine the impact of strategic behavior, rules, and institutions on legislative outcomes, this book produces significant new insights into legislative behavior. The themes that are constant in this volume and that reflect Richard F. Fenno's own treatment of the field are legislators as rational actors; the expectation that congressional rules, procedures, and institutions reflect the preferences and constraints faced by members of Congress; and viewing politics as politicians do. The contributors are John Aldrich, Steve Balla, David Castle, Christine DeGregorio, Richard Delany, Diana Evans, Patrick Fett, Linda Fowler, Brian Frederking, Jeffrey Hill, Bryan Marshall, Brandon Prins, David Rohde, Wendy Schiller, Kenneth Shepsle, and John Wright. William T. Bianco is Associate Professor of Political Science, Pennsylvania State University

"How does Congress work? A house divided against itself cannot stand, and neither can Citizen Baby (yet!). Come along as Citizen Baby cuts through the partisan rancor to reveal the inner workings of the legislative branch. Children and adults alike will enjoy learning about Congress in this adorable, informative board book."--

To so many Americans, Congress seems obsolete or useless. Why do we even bother with it? Why Congress offers a defense of Congress as the indispensable branch of government, alongside a compelling account of how the institution has become so dysfunctional. At its best in the mid-20th century, Congress solved immense challenges like civil rights, but Wallach's history shows how the subsequent rise of powerful leadership and the decline of committees have left Congress divided and decrepit. As society feels divided and politics feels gridlocked, 'Why Congress' argues that only a revival of legislative deliberation can resolve our most pressing challenges.

The case for reinvigorating Congress, by an eminent former Congressman.