CONFLICT AND CONSENSUS IN AMERICAN POLITICS uses its titled theme to underscore both the theory of American Politics as well as real life application of theory. The book's organizational framework, as well as features in each chapter, makes these connections clear to students of American Government and offer, therefore, an accurate and positive view of how and why politics and government in the U.S. work. Throughout this text, the topics of American Politics are viewed through the lens of theory and practice with the prism of conflict and consensus shading the discussions of policy issues and political consequences. Rich with pedagogy, and supported by an unsurpassed ancillary package for both instructor and student, CONFLICT AND CONSENSUS IN AMERICAN POLITICS offers a realistic introduction to politics by authors who bring distinctive expertise to bear on each topic.