Written by a noted European scholar for American students of comparative politics, European Democracies, Third Edition is an engaging, lucid examination of European political institutions. The book's comparative approach crosses national and political boundaries and, whenever possible, likens the European to the American situation. It aims to make students knowledgeable about European political systems and invites them to consider the United States' political scene in light of what they learn about Europe.

Attesting to its contemporary relevance is the fact that it has been translated into Polish and placed on the required readings list by Poland's Ministry of Education.

The text's unique thematic organization offers original insights into important topics - and countries - frequently overlooked in other texts and encourages students to reflect on major political concepts. Truly comprehensive, this edition incorporates former Soviet bloc nations while continuing its incomparable coverage of the smaller European countries together with Germany, France, Great Britain, Italy, and Spain.