Italian Politics Today

This book is a clear and accessible guide to the labyrinth of Italian politics and the social forces that shape them. Following the "sweet revolution" that swept away the political class that had dominated politics in Italy since the last war, Hilary Partridge provides a much needed analysis and update on the tumultuous events of the 1990s. Topics covered in the book include the legacy of the Risorgimento, the liberal era and fascism; Italian constitutional arrangements and the ongoing debate over their reform; the Christian Democratic "regime" and the long-standing exclusion from power of the major party of opposition; clientalism and corruption; right wing conspiracies, terrorism and the Mafia; economic, social and political rights; the collapse of the traditional parties and the reshaping of the party system.