This book qualifies as an essentials text because it covers the basics all students need to know about the national government in the United States and does so in a concise and easily understood manner. In addition, the book is concerned with issues - ranging from new federalism to human rights - and offers a critical examination of governmental institutions and policies in the United States.
David R. Berman is a senior research fellow at the Morrison Institute for Public Policy and a professor emeritus of political science at Arizona State University.