Modern British Party System

The new edition of this successful book provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview and account of the changing nature of party politics in Britain today, drawing on models of comparative politics to map and explain the ways in which the party system has evolved and the parties have adapted to a changing political environment. It also addresses the crisis of popular legitimacy confronting the parties and assesses the scope for potential reform.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The latest edition of this highly acclaimed book offers a comprehensive and timely exploration of the evolving dynamics of party politics in contemporary Britain. Webb and Bale employ comparative political models to conduct extensive empirical analysis, illuminating the intricate pathways through which the party system has transformed and the parties have adapted to the ever-changing political landscape. This insightful work delves into a range of themes, including the intensity and nature of party competition, the internal organization and development of political parties, the diverse party systems prevalent across the United Kingdom, and the crucial roles played by parties within the broader political system. Additionally, the book addresses the pressing issue of popular legitimacy confronting the parties, while also assessing the potential for meaningful reform. While parties continue to hold a pivotal position in the functioning of Britain's democratic system, public dissatisfaction with them has reached unprecedented levels; thus, reform of the representation and party funding systems is urgently warranted. However, it is important to recognize that finding a universally effective solution to these challenges is unlikely.

Weight: 706g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780199217243
Edition number: 2 Revised edition