Introduction to Political Science

- Evangelical Christian Publishers Association Top Shelf Book Cover Award 2017We are political beings and our lives are shaped by political institutions. Being a good citizen involves understanding these institutions and how they can be used to promote the common good. Christians further believe these institutions are integral to God's created order, intended by God to promote justice and help people flourish. Christians thus have good reason to be informed about political science as they seek to be ambassadors for Christ in a diverse society.Introduction to Political Science: A Christian Perspective is an accessible guide to the study of politics. Written for students who may not have any prior knowledge about political life, this textbook provides a nonpartisan introduction to the key concepts, institutions, and policies that shape politics today. Fred Van Geest draws on a variety of sources and examples to present a balanced Christian perspective on political science. Christians, he argues, are called to engage in political action in order to advance public justice, even though full shalom is ultimately the work of God alone.IVP Instructor Resources include an Instructor's Guide and Student's Study Guide.

Fred Van Geest (PhD, Queen's University) is professor of political science at Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota. He was professor of political studies and environmental studies for eleven years at Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa, and also previously taught at the American University of Beirut in Lebanon. He has served as an instructor and curriculum developer for Crossroad Bible Institute, a discipleship and advocacy ministry for prisoners and their families. Van Geest's research and teaching interests include comparative politics, public administration and the intersection of Christianity and politics.