Introduction

Abstract

An introductory chapter notes that this volume takes up where The Politics of Democratic Consolidation: Southern Europe in Comparative Perspective (Gunther, Diamandouros, & Puhle Hans-Jurgen) left off by looking at how democratic consolidation has affected politics in Greece, Italy, Portugal, & Spain. Special attention is given to the characteristics of key governmental institutions; the organization, dynamics, & strategies of political parties; the nature of electoral politics; & the interrelationship between parties & the social structure. The contributors also consider theoretical issues related to democratic consolidation, including the concept of "leapfrogging" development; the relationship between socioeconomic development & democracy; & the impact on the processes of consolidation of historical legacies as well as the different trajectories followed by each country. Three working hypotheses are: (1) socioeconomic development & democratic consolidation are intimately linked & mutually reinforcing; (2) democratic persistence is capable of accommodating change; & (3) the combined result of democratic consolidation & socioeconomic development in southern Europe resembles many features associated with western European democracies. The book's framework is described & a brief synopsis of each chapter is included. J. Lindroth