Howard J. Wiarda Poradie kníh

Focusing on social change and political development in Latin America, the book examines the complexities of redemocratization and the emergence of new pluralism. It critically analyzes whether a unique tradition persists amid these evolving challenges, offering insights into the region's political landscape and its historical context.

In this important book, well known Comparativist, Howard J. Wiarda, traces the long and controversial history of culture studies, and the relations of political culture and identity politics to political science. Under attack from structuralists, institutionalists, Marxists, and dependency writers, Wiarda examines and assesses the reasons for these attacks and why political culture went into decline only to have a new and transcendent renaissance and revival in the writings of Inglehart, Fukuyama, Putnam, Huntington and many others.

The book explores a significant transformation in global politics, emphasizing the transition from a U.S. and Western-centric development model to diverse alternatives. It also examines the waning influence of a Western-dominated world order, highlighting how these changes are reshaping international relations and prompting a reevaluation of existing political frameworks. Through this analysis, the author provides insights into the evolving dynamics of power and governance in a multipolar world.

Focusing on contentious global hotspots, this book delves into critical issues like Third World development, the role of the state, corporatism, and foreign aid. It offers insightful analyses that challenge conventional perspectives, making it essential reading for those interested in foreign policy, comparative politics, and international affairs.

The book explores the diminishing influence of universities in shaping public policy, highlighting the rise of Washington-based institutions like AEI, CSIS, and the National War College as key players in generating policy ideas. It critically examines how these think tanks and policy shops have increasingly taken over the role traditionally held by academic institutions, offering a thought-provoking analysis of the changing landscape of policy generation.

The book delves into the interconnections among international relations, comparative politics, and foreign policy, highlighting their missteps and proposing corrective measures. Howard J. Wiarda provides in-depth analyses of contemporary political issues, aiming to re-establish the relationships between these disciplines and enhance understanding of their impact on global affairs.

Drawing from extensive global travels, the author shares personal narratives of his research adventures in various countries. With a focus on the unique cultures and individuals encountered, these accounts reflect his expertise in foreign policy and international affairs. The book blends academic insight with engaging storytelling, offering a glimpse into the complexities of the world's most dynamic regions through the lens of personal experience.

The book delves into the cultural conflict between military and civilian academics at the National War College, drawing on the author's personal experiences. It highlights key issues such as tenure, academic freedom, research, and teaching that contribute to this division. While centered on the National War College, the insights provided extend to all Professional Military Education (PME) institutions, offering a broader understanding of the tensions inherent in these educational environments.

The rise of think tanks has significantly shaped American politics and foreign policy over the past thirty years, establishing them as key players alongside interest groups, political parties, and government agencies. These organizations have taken the lead in generating new policy ideas and providing the essential research and rationale that underpin them, surpassing universities in their influence and role within the political landscape.

Focusing on the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research, the narrative explores its evolution as a prominent think tank in Washington, detailing its influence on policy, particularly regarding the Iraq War. It provides insights into the inner workings of AEI and the broader dynamics of policy-making in Washington. Additionally, the author shares personal experiences and reflections on the intersection of academic research and American foreign policy, blending social science analysis with memoir elements.