The Oxford Handbook of Political Science Book Summary - The Oxford Handbook of Political Science Book explained in key points

The Oxford Handbook of Political Science summary

Brief summary

The Oxford Handbook of Political Science is a comprehensive guide that covers the key concepts, theories, and methods in political science. It offers valuable insights into the study of politics and is a must-read for students and scholars in the field.

Give Feedback
Table of Contents

    The Oxford Handbook of Political Science
    Summary of key ideas

    Exploring Political Science

    In The Oxford Handbook of Political Science by Robert E. Goodin, we embark on a comprehensive journey through the diverse subfields of political science. The book begins by delving into the foundations of political science, discussing its historical development and the nature of political inquiry, including the various methods and approaches employed in the discipline.

    Next, the handbook explores political theory, which encompasses the study of political ideas, ideologies, and values. The discussion extends to the examination of political institutions, where the focus is on the structures and processes that shape political systems, such as constitutions, legislatures, and judiciaries.

    Understanding Political Behavior

    We then move on to the study of political behavior, which involves the analysis of individual and collective political actions. This includes the examination of voting behavior, political participation, public opinion, and political psychology. The handbook also covers the role of political parties and interest groups in shaping political outcomes.

    Comparative politics is another area explored in this handbook. Here, the emphasis is on comparing different political systems, institutions, and processes across countries and regions. The discussion includes topics such as democratization, regime types, and the impact of globalization on political dynamics.

    Exploring International Relations

    The handbook then transitions to the study of international relations, which focuses on the interactions between states and non-state actors in the global arena. The discussion encompasses various aspects of international relations, including conflict and cooperation, international organizations, and global governance.

    Political economy, a subfield that examines the relationship between politics and economics, is also covered in the handbook. Here, the focus is on understanding how political institutions and processes shape economic outcomes, and vice versa. Topics such as economic development, inequality, and public policy are explored.

    Applying Law and Context to Politics

    Law and politics are next on the agenda, with the handbook exploring the intersection of legal systems and political processes. This includes the examination of constitutional law, human rights, and the role of law in regulating political behavior. The handbook also covers public policy, which involves the study of government decisions and their impact on society.

    Contextual political analysis is another area of focus, where the handbook emphasizes the importance of considering historical, cultural, and social factors in understanding political phenomena. This includes the study of political culture, identity politics, and the impact of social movements on political change.

    Methodological Foundations of Political Science

    Finally, the handbook concludes by discussing the methodological foundations of political science. Here, the focus is on the various research methods and techniques used in the discipline, including quantitative and qualitative approaches. The handbook also addresses the challenges and ethical considerations involved in conducting political science research.

    In conclusion, The Oxford Handbook of Political Science provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse subfields, methods, and approaches within political science. It serves as an invaluable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of politics and governance.

    Give Feedback
    How do we create content on this page?
    More knowledge in less time
    Read or listen
    Read or listen
    Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
    Find your next read
    Find your next read
    Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
    Shortcasts
    Shortcasts New
    We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.

    What is The Oxford Handbook of Political Science about?

    The Oxford Handbook of Political Science offers a comprehensive overview of the field, covering topics such as political theory, comparative politics, public policy, and international relations. Edited by Robert E. Goodin, this book brings together leading scholars to provide in-depth analysis and insights into the key issues and debates in political science.

    The Oxford Handbook of Political Science Review

    The Oxford Handbook of Political Science (2009) serves as an essential resource for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of political science. Here's why this book is definitely worth a read:
    • Featuring a comprehensive overview of key concepts and theories, it provides a solid foundation for exploring various aspects of political science.
    • The book presents insightful analyses and case studies that offer practical applications of political theories in real-world scenarios.
    • With its diverse range of perspectives and contributions from leading experts, the book keeps readers engaged and offers a nuanced understanding of political issues.

    Who should read The Oxford Handbook of Political Science?

    • Undergraduate and graduate students studying political science

    • Political science researchers and academics looking for comprehensive and up-to-date insights

    • Policy analysts and professionals seeking a deep understanding of political processes and institutions

    About the Author

    Robert E. Goodin is a prominent political scientist and philosopher. He has made significant contributions to the study of political theory, public policy, and democratic theory. Goodin has held prestigious positions at various universities, including the Australian National University and the University of Essex. In addition to his extensive academic work, he has authored and edited numerous books, including 'The Oxford Handbook of Political Science' and 'The Theory of Institutional Design'.

    Categories with The Oxford Handbook of Political Science

    People ❤️ Blinkist 
    Sven O.

    It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.

    Thi Viet Quynh N.

    Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.

    Jonathan A.

    Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.

    Renee D.

    Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.

    4.7 Stars
    Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
    32 Million
    Downloads on all platforms
    10+ years
    Experience igniting personal growth
    Powerful ideas from top nonfiction

    Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.

    Start your free trial

    The Oxford Handbook of Political Science FAQs 

    What is the main message of The Oxford Handbook of Political Science?

    The main message of The Oxford Handbook of Political Science is a comprehensive guide to the field.

    How long does it take to read The Oxford Handbook of Political Science?

    Reading time for The Oxford Handbook of Political Science varies but can take hours. Blinkist summary is quicker.

    Is The Oxford Handbook of Political Science a good book? Is it worth reading?

    The Oxford Handbook of Political Science is a valuable read for those interested in politics. It offers rich insights in a concise format.

    Who is the author of The Oxford Handbook of Political Science?

    The author of The Oxford Handbook of Political Science is Robert E. Goodin.

    What to read after The Oxford Handbook of Political Science?

    If you're wondering what to read next after The Oxford Handbook of Political Science, here are some recommendations we suggest:
    • Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemoglu & James A. Robinson
    • The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama
    • The Road to Serfdom by Friedrich August von Hayek
    • Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
    • Manufacturing Consent by Edward S. Herman and Noam Chomsky
    • No Logo by Naomi Klein
    • The Bottom Billion by Paul Collier
    • The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein
    • Brave New War by John Robb
    • Man, the State and War by Kenneth N. Waltz