The American System of Government

First published in 1954, with this edition released in 1983, The American System of Government remains an essential text for understanding American politics. Since the 1976 edition, governmental instabilities have intensified, leading Professor Griffith to revise his work to address these changes. This updated edition explores the evolving dynamics between Congress and the President, the instability of the two major political parties, and the growing influence of congressional subcommittees.

A significant addition is a new chapter on America’s budget crisis, highlighting annual deficits of approximately $200 billion. Griffith provides a sharp analysis of the Reagan administration’s efforts to confront these challenges and propose solutions. Retaining its hallmark readability, the book continues to emphasize the similarities and differences between Presidential and Parliamentary systems, while its material on the history of the Constitution remains exemplary. This is a must-read for students of American politics and political science.