Once the world's foremost industrial power, Britain has had a profound effect on the course of world affairs. While its political and cultural legacy remains strong, Britain has had to adapt to a new and radically different globalized order. The third edition of this bestselling text provides an authoritative and thought-provoking introduction to all aspects of British politics, society, geography and culture, and examines Britain's new place in Europe and the world. It has been thoroughly revised and updated throughout to incorporate the latest trends and developments, including the coalition government's response to the global financial crisis. The major theme of the book is change and the many upheavals that Britain has undergone - from reconstruction after the Second World War through to the legacies of Thatcher and Blair to today's challenges of fiscal austerity and integration with the rest of Europe. Rejecting the thesis of decline, John McCormick argues that Britain has become a more successful society whose citizens are looking less at the past and more at present challenges and future possibilities. The text is illustrated throughout with figures and tables, boxes focusing on key issues and an extensive guide to further reading and useful websites. Assuming no prior knowledge, Contemporary Britain is the ideal starting point for students and interested general readers alike. (Bookdata)