To fathom the transformations that have revolutionized Italian politics since 1989, Newell (U. of Salford) evaluates the virtues and vices of Italian democracy. He identifies three change widespread corruption; electoral change and the growth of the Northern League; and the success of the referendum movement in triggering a new electoral law in 1993. Includes an extensive glossary of Italian political terms from "AD" (Democratic Alliance) to "Verdi" (Greens Party). Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)