Political traditions in modern France

About this book

Political Traditions in Modern France offers an introduction to the modern French political system which differs from the narratives of conventional textbooks. It is an engaging account of the forces which have shaped political argument and practice in France since 1789. Its primary focus is the relationship between ideologies and political movements explored from a broad historical perspective. A critical examination of important features of French public life, including the nature of republicanism, nationalism, religion, and the role of intellectuals, provides the general setting for accounts on peace movements, and the political traditions of liberalism, socialism, gaullism, and communism. Rather than seeing France's political history as a process of rupture and fragmentation, this book emphasizes the elements of continuity, arguing in particular that ideology has often played a key role in bringing together parties and movements from different political horizons. It also highlights the role of ideas in the French political process and stresses the influence of history in shaping lines of political division. Written in a clear and accessible style, the book will be invaluable to students of nineteenth- and twentieth-century French history, politics, and government. In addition it offers a general framework for thinking about the role of ideas in politics and will be of great relevance to courses on ideologies.