America's Congress Actions in the Public Sphere, James Madison Through Newt Gingrich David R. Mayhew

To understand American politics and government, we need to recognize that members of Congress are more than agents of societal interests and preferences - they also act with some autonomy and consequence in the public sphere. In this study, a distinguished political scientist examines the actions of members of Congress throughout American history, assessing their patterns and importance and their role in the US system of separation of powers.

David R. Mayhew, Sterling Professor of Political Science at Yale University, is also the author of Congress: The Electoral Connection (0 300 01809 6, pb. [pound]9.50) and Divided We Govern (0 300 04837 8, pb. [pound]10.95), both published by Yale University Press.

"Splendid." Michael Barone, Public Interest "In this important book, Mayhew uses common sense to turn historical scholarship into data. And he fulfills his purpose, to evaluate 'public affairs in a democracy' rather than merely to deplore its passing." Theodore J. Lowi, Cornell University "A book that every student of Congress will want to read." Gary C. Jacobson, author of The Politics of Congressional Elections "An intriguing book, America's Congress explores a key gap in the formal study of national politics and provides an instructive look into the dynamics of Congress." Joshua Micah Marshall, American Prospect "This splendid work offers convincing evidence that representative democracy is alive and well in America and making a significant difference. I predict it will become a standard text in government courses." Lee Edwards, World & I