In recent decades, research in political psychology has illuminated the psychological processes underlying important political action, both by ordinary citizens and by political leaders. As the world has become increasingly engaged in thinking about politics, this volume reflects the exciting new work by political psychologists to understand the contemporary functioning of government.

In recent decades, research in political psychology has illuminated the psychological processes underlying important political action, both by ordinary citizens and by political leaders. As the world has become increasingly engaged in thinking about politics, this volume reflects exciting new work by political psychologists to understand the psychological processes underlying Americans' political thinking and action. In 13 chapters, world-class scholars present new in-depth work exploring public opinion, social movements, attitudes toward affirmative action, the behavior of political leaders, the impact of the 9/11 attacks, and scientists' statements about global warming and gasoline prices. Also included are studies of attitude strength that compare the causes and consequences of various strength-related constructs. This volume will appeal to a wide range of researchers and students in political psychology and political science, and may be used as a text in upper-level courses requiring a scholarly and contemporary review of major issues in the field.

Continuing progress in political psychology depends jointly on innovative applications in both psychology and political analysis.?The editors succeed in assembling a formidable set of novel analyses by outstanding scholars that are, at once, politically and psychologically compelling.? Robert Huckfeldt, Distinguished Professor of Political Science, University of California, Davis Political Psychology: New Explorations presents original research by a number of prominent social psychologists on central political issues. Readers gain insight into a diverse set of topics including the dynamics of leadership, the psychology of collective action, human behavioral change, and the power of pocketbook economics. Taken together, the chapters provide keen practical political insight while also advancing an understanding of basic psychological processes. Leonie Huddy, Professor of Political Science, State University of New York at Stony Brook This book conveys the rigor and vitality of scholarship in political psychology from the perspective of the "Stanford School." Esteemed authors consider rational and not-so-rational forces at work when it comes to elite decision-making, effects of mass media exposure, public policy preferences, voting behavior, participation in social movements, and other fundamental phenomena. For ardent observers of social and political behavior in the U.S. and elsewhere, this is a must read! John T. Jost, Co-Director of the Center for Social and Political Behavior and Professor of Psychology and Politics, New York University