Because of its great diversity, New York State has more extensive social and political conflict than most states. In this indispensable guide to New York State politics, political institutions, and public policy, experts analyze how these conflicts are organized and represented, and how the political process and political institutions work to seek to resolve them. This newly updated edition of the classic text contains significantly revised material and many new contributors.

The essays examine conflicts between New York City and the remainder of the state, and between federal, state, and local governments. The role of major political parties, third parties, interest groups, and the media are covered, along with political institutions that shape the political process--the governor, the legislature, the courts, and the public authorities. Finally, Governing New York State investigates such major policy areas as the economy, taxes, local education, higher education, heath care, welfare, transportation, and the environment.