This Study Guide is meant to be used in conjunction with Peter Woll’s American Government: Readings and Cases, 13th Edition. It cannot serve as a substitute for reading the selections in the text. While the Study Guide outlines the selections’ major points and lines of reasoning, there can be no replacement for reading and understanding the pieces in their original form. Many of the authors’ important arguments, examples, and observations are not mentioned in the Study Guide.

The Study Guide is best used to enhance the student’s understanding of the original texts. Used with the text, the Guide can help the student identify both the major points in the selections and how these points fit into the author’s reasoning. Main arguments are highlighted with an asterisk; points of significance are offset with a dot and followed by supporting points. This format can be used to help students learn how to take notes as they read, as well as to help them outline their own arguments for use in papers and essays.

Phyllis Gibson’s assistance in designing and preparing the Study Guide has been invaluable. Michael Paris also made significant contributions to the entries for Chapters 1-3 and Chapter 8.

Introductory Note

Chapter 1 CONSTITUTIONAL GOVERNMENT 2

Chapter 2 FEDERALISM 7

Chapter 3 CIVIL LIBERTIES AND CIVIL RIGHTS 15

PART II POLITICAL PARTIES, ELECTORAL BEHAVIOR, 29

Chapter 4 POLITICAL PARTIES AND THE ELECTORATE 30

Chapter 5 INTEREST GROUPS 40

PART III NATIONAL GOVERNMENTAL INSTITUTIONS 48

Chapter 6 THE PRESIDENCY 49

Chapter 7 THE BUREAUCRACY 59

Chapter 8 CONGRESS 63

Chapter 9 THE JUDICIARY 80