The Symbolic Uses of Politics

by Murray Edelman

Book Overview

The symbolic manifestations, purposes, and uses of politics are revealed in this provocative analysis of the institution of politics and man as a political animal.

Unlike the conventional study of politics that deals with how people get the things they want through government, this book concentrates on how politics influence what they want, what they fear, and what they regard as possible. In examining politics as a symbolic form, it looks at...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 025201202X
• ISBN13: 9780252012020
• Release Date: February 1985
• Publisher: University of Illinois Press
• Length: 232 Pages
• Weight: 0.63 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.5" x 8.1"

Customer Reviews

New Clarity Regarding Politics

I had to read this book to complete a long undergraduate paper, and it was one of the best books I've ever read regarding how politics works. It's amazing that the book was written in 1964, because it is so applicable to so many events. It's not the most readable book (it's rather dense), but the information provided is so poignant and accurate, that it more than makes up for this. Any time I see something ridiculous political hoopla on the news, it all makes sense after Murray Edelman. As I saw it, the main thrust of the book is that people don't want tangible "Things" from the government. Instead they want "the feeling that they are getting things" from the government. starting with this premise, Edelman explains how this works out in electoral politics, policy actions, and civil rights debates. It's stunning how accurate his system is and how applicable his general rules of politics are to almost any situation. It's a great book, and a must for anyone getting into the Political Science field.

A Staple For Politicos

If you're looking to psycho-analyze the effectiveness of symbolism and develop your own theory of political advertising, nab this book. It's one of the classic piece of poli-sci literature.