Political Traditions in Modern France

Book excerpt: Political Traditions in Modern France offers a clear and accessible 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.