3.2 Government and politics of the USA and comparative politics

3.2.1 Government and politics of the USA

Government and politics of the USA is divided into eight sections. Each has a particular focus but their interrelationships must be understood to appreciate the complexities of the system.

• 3.2.1.1 The constitutional framework of US government
• 3.2.1.2 The legislative branch of government: Congress
• 3.2.1.3 The executive branch of government: President
• 3.2.1.4 The judicial branch of government
• 3.2.1.5 The electoral process and direct democracy
• 3.2.1.6 Political parties
• 3.2.1.7 Pressure groups
• 3.2.1.8 Civil rights

3.2.2 Comparative politics

Students should use the following three theoretical approaches to make a comparative study of the government and politics of the UK and the USA, analysing and explaining similarities and differences between them.

• structural

• rational

• cultural.

• 3.2.2.1 Constitutional arrangements

• 3.2.2.2 The executives

• 3.2.2.3 The judiciaries

• 3.2.2.4 Electoral and party systems

• 3.2.2.5 Pressure groups

• 3.2.2.6 Civil Rights