Theorie politischer Institutionen

This book outlines the key elements of the theory of political institutions. Its aim is to surpass singular analyses of parliaments or governments and to understand how institutions work in relation to citizens. In a democracy, citizens themselves act as agents towards political institutions as well. Their interrelations can be derived from recent theories of power and representation, with symbols also playing a significant role in this respect. Based on this foundation, the book examines how political institutions exercise power through control and integration. The result is a detailed model of institutional configuration, which can also be used to determine institutional change.