In studies of comparative politics and public policy specifically, interpersonal friendship has been generally regarded as a matter that belongs to the private domain, rather than a site for government intervention. And yet, friendship is inherently political. While friendships can and do evolve spontaneously between individuals, political factors can help to bring people together or drive them apart.

Fomenting Friendship examines the ways in which friendship has been perceived in comparative politics, and the barriers to friendship that exist in capitalist society. These barriers, Andrea Chandler contends, have been shaped by government policy. Reviewing the abundant evidence that shows that access to friendship is socially determined, and that a lack of access to friendship disadvantages the individual in numerous ways, Chandler effectively makes the case that government has a role to play in encouraging interpersonal friendship, including calling upon politicians to model friendly and inclusive behaviour in public.

This book is a natural resource for all those looking for answers and best policy practices for encouraging friendship and uncovering unanswered questions about friendship.