Introduction to Political Psychology by Cottam, Martha L.; Mastors, Elena; Preston, Thomas;

Short description:

This fifth edition of Introduction to Political Psychology explores the many psychological patterns that influence individual political behavior. 

Long description:

This fifth edition of Introduction to Political Psychology explores the many psychological patterns that influence individual political behavior. The authors introduce readers to a broad range of theories, concepts, and case studies of political activity, arguing that individuals are driven or motivated to act in accordance with personality characteristics, values, beliefs, and attachments to groups. The book explains many aspects of political behavior?whether seemingly pathological actions or normal decision-making practices, which sometimes work optimally, and sometimes fail.

Thoroughly updated throughout, the book examines patterns of political behavior in areas including leadership, group behavior, voting, race, nationalism, terrorism, and war. This edition features:

• Detailed coverage of political polarization, and the psychology behind it;


• Up-to-date topics and case studies focused on the 2024 US election, the war in Ukraine, and the Israel?Palestine conflict, as well as social movements such as climate change activism, Black Lives Matter, and
  
  

  "In this new edition of their classic textbook, Cottam, Mastors, Preston and Huseby provide a comprehensive introduction to political psychology, a field which they correctly note is exploding in popularity. Many of our contemporary problems, the authors skillfully show, have their roots in the psychology of political action. Indispensable to beginner and advanced students alike, this is an essential text with a fresh new polish."

  
  

  Dr Stephen Dyson, Professor of Political Science, University of Connecticut, US

  
  

  "This magisterial text belongs on the shelf of every international relations scholar and political scientist. Its breadth is truly extraordinary, and the authorial team are leading experts in the field of political psychology. Whether one is interested in the personalities of world leaders or the pathologies of groups and coalitions or the dynamics of ethnic conflict, nationalism, and terror, this book overviews both foundational and cutting-edge research, complemented by numerous in-depth case studies. In sum, this volume serves not only as an introduction to the field for newcomers, including students, but as an invaluable companion and reference for scholars and practitioners."

  
  

  Dr Valerie M. Hudson, University Distinguished Professor, Texas A&M University, US

  
  

  "This book provides students with an eye-opening and intriguing introduction to how individuals participate in and influence politics?from voters to leaders.? It describes a wide range of topics regarding how psychological processes help to shape politics from one?s identity to level of participation, from leadership to engaging in collaboration, from how the media works to terrorism.? As well as describing theories and research, it also provides case studies to illustrate how the psychological processes actually work.? This book brings political psychology alive for the reader!"

  
  

  Margaret G. Hermann, Cramer Professor of Global Affairs Emerita, Syracuse University

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Table of Contents:

1. Political Psychology: Introduction and Overview 2. Personality and Politics 3. Cognition, Social Identity, Emotions, and Attitudes in Political Psychology 4. The Political Psychology of Groups 5. The Study of Political Leaders 6. The Political Psychology of Mass Politics: How Do People Decide Who to Vote For? 7. The Political Psychology of the Media in Politics 8. The Political Psychology of Race 9. From Ethnic Conflict to Genocide 10. The Political Psychology of Nationalism 11. The Political Psychology of Social Movements 12. The Political Psychology of Terrorism 13. The Political Psychology of International Security and Conflict 14. Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation