Italy: The Homeland of the Political Class

Abstract

Explores the political class in Italy, focusing on professional politicians & the scope & dimensions of political careers. The Italian political system & its Members of Parliament (MPs) are analyzed historically. Definition of the composition & structure of the political class is complicated by the denial of full-time professionalism by MPs & political scandals during the 1990s. Entry into the political class & the cycle of political careers in Italy are examined, with some attention to salaries & pensions. The instability & future prospects for the political class are surmised. 3 Figures, 80 References. L. Collins Leigh