Debating the Presidency: Conflicting Perspectives on the American Executive

Debating the Presidency: Conflicting Perspectives on the American Executive by Ellis, Richard J.. paperback edition. ISBN: 9781506344485.

Editors Richard J. Ellis and Michael Nelson have once again assembled a cadre of top presidential scholars in the new Fourth Edition of Debating the Presidency: Conflicting Perspectives on the American Executive. Each essay offers a compelling yet concise view of topics relevant to the American executive. Ellis and Nelson offer brief chapter introductions that provide context for each debate-resolution style essay to prepare students to read each argument critically and decide which side of the debate they find most persuasive. Contributions are written specifically for this volume, and give students the opportunity to grapple with contemporary pivotal issues through conflicting perspectives facing the modern presidency. Several new arguments are offered in this new edition, including: Executive orders and other unilateral presidential directives undermine democracy Pro: Gene Healy, Con: Andrew Rudalevige; The vice presidency should be abolished Pro: Douglas L. Kriner, Con: Joel K. Goldstein; and The new media have brought the president closer to the people. Pro: Matthew R. Kerbel, Con: Jeffrey E. Cohen.