At least since the French Revolution, France has the peculiar distinction of
simultaneously fascinating, charming and exasperating its neighbours and
foreign observers. Contemporary France provides an essential introduction
for students of French politics and society, exploring contemporary developments while placing them in a deeper historical, intellectual, cultural and social context that makes for insightful analysis.
Chapters on France's economic policy and welfare state, its foreign and European policies and its political movements and recent institutional developments are informed by an analysis of the country's unique political and institutional traditions, distinct forms of nationalism and citizenship,
dynamic intellectual life and recent social trends. Summaries of major political, economic and social developments are displayed as exhibits.
To present the general reader with an acute and critical introduction to the essential facets of a nation, while maintaining a pertinent message throughout, in under 300 pages, is a first-rate achievement. Complete with suggestions for further reading, this book offers a firm grounding in key issues and can be considered a solid platform from which to explore France further. (Modern & Contemporary France 2004-10-01)
Les informations fournies dans la section « A propos du livre » peuvent faire référence à une autre édition de ce titre.