American Voter Turnout: An Institutional Perspective / Edition 1

by David Hill

Overview

Using a combination of existing and original research, this new text provides a simple explanation for the low turnout in American elections: rather than creating an environment conducive to participation, the institutional arrangements that govern structure participation, representation, and actual governance in the United States create an environment that discourages widespread participation. To explore this argument, the author examines the origins and development of registration laws, single-member districts, such as the Electoral College, and the separation of powers and the impact these institutions have on turnout levels in American national elections. To this end, the text employs a narrative discussing the impact of institutions on turnout in the United States and across nations, supported with extensive yet accessible data analysis. Hill not only provides students with explanations for the low turnout characteristic of American elections, but also demonstrates the powerful impact of institutions on political life.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780813343280
Publisher:	Westview Press
Publication date:	01/03/2006
Series:	Transforming American Politics Series
Edition description:	REV
Pages:	192
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x (d)

About the Author

David Hill is assistant professor in the political science department at Valdosta State University.

Table of Contents

Introduction , Explanations of Turnout , Restricting Access to the Ballot Box , Placing the United States in Context , Winner-Take-All Elections, Part I , Winner-Take-All Elections, Part II , The Separation of Powers , Conclusion , Appendix A , Appendix B , Appendix C