Great introduction to Political Psychology

books:

	• Introduction to Political Psychology Martha L. Cottam, Beth Dietz-Uhler, ... Lawrence Erlbaum, 2004 - 360 pages average customer review:based on 2 reviews view larger image
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This isn't Pop Psychology

Two years ago, while doing research to teach an undergraduate course in Political Psychology, the choices were slim and none. Several books of edited chapters were available, but for an undergraduate course, I wanted a textbook that would provide structure to the field. Cottam, et al have done an admirable job of marrying basic psychological processes to political applications. Well written and informative, I would recommend this as a textbook for upper division students in Psychology and Political Science. WARNING: take Social Psychology first. You won't understand the theoretical underpinnings without Social Psychology.

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Great introduction to Political Psychology

This book is very recommended for anyone interested in politics, psychology, the reasons behind political actions and of course those taking beginner classes in political pschyology. The book is in an easy readable style and motivates you to learn various psychological concepts such as perception, emotions, cognition, group, etc. The book is well structured in focusing on the individual and then on the group. A chapter on leadership helps better understand presidential behavior.

In the second part (Ch. 6-10) many of the concepts are applied to specific areas of interest to political scientists: voting and the media, race and ethnicity, nationalism, political extremism and international relations. Each chapter concludes with a list of key terms (which are also bold within the text). At the end of the book, all terms are listed for quick reference.

However since this book is merely introductory, it will make you want to read more on the interesting topics. The literature lists at the end of each chapter give a good start for further research!

Definetly recommended! 5 out of 5 stars

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The first comprehensive textbook on political psychology, this user-friendly volume explores the psychological origins of political behavior. Using psychological concepts to explain types of political behavior, the authors introduce a broad range of theories and cases of political activity to illustrate the behavior. The book examines many patterns of political behaviors including leadership, group behavior, voting, race, ethnicity, nationalism, political extremism, terrorism, war, and genocide. Text boxes highlight current and historical events to help students see the connection between the world around them and the concepts they are learning. Examples highlight a variety of research methodologies used in the discipline such as experimentation and content analysis. The "Political Being" is used throughout to remind the reader of the psychological theories and concepts to be explored in each chapter. Introduction to Political Psychology explores some of the most horrific things people do to oneanother for political purposes, as well as how to prevent and resolve conflict, and how to recover from it. The goal is to help the reader understand the enormous complexity of human behavior and the significant role political psychology can play in improving the human condition.

Designed for upper division courses on political psychology or political behavior, this volume also contains material of interest to those in the policymaking community.

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