Why Politics Fails by Ben Ansell is a thought-provoking exploration of the underlying reasons why political systems and leaders often fail to deliver on their promises, leading to widespread public disillusionment. Ansell, a distinguished political scientist, delves into the structural and systemic issues that hinder effective governance, from entrenched interests and polarization to the complexities of global challenges like inequality, climate change, and economic instability. By examining case studies and drawing on a wealth of historical and contemporary examples, Ansell provides a compelling analysis of why politics so frequently falls short and what might be done to address these failings. This book is both a critique of the current state of politics and a call to rethink how we approach governance and public policy in an increasingly complex world.

Why Read This Book

• Provides a deep analysis of the systemic issues that cause political systems to underperform, offering insights into contemporary political challenges.
• Written by Ben Ansell, a respected scholar in political science, ensuring a well-researched and authoritative perspective.
• Helps readers understand the root causes of political disillusionment and the factors that contribute to political failures.
• Engages with pressing global issues like inequality and climate change, making it relevant to anyone interested in current affairs.
• Offers a balanced critique, making it a valuable read for those looking to understand both the strengths and weaknesses of modern political systems.

About the Author

Ben Ansell is a professor of comparative democratic institutions at the University of Oxford and a Fellow of Nuffield College. His research focuses on the intersection of politics and economics, with a particular interest in inequality, political economy, and democratization. Ansell has published extensively in academic journals and is recognized for his insightful analysis of contemporary political challenges. Why Politics Fails reflects his deep expertise in understanding the systemic and structural issues that often lead to political dysfunction, making him a respected voice in political science and public discourse.