<p> During the past two decades many countries in the world have peacefully undergone a transition to more popular forms of self-governance. The United States represents the world model for evolving forms of democracy. This volume details how government currently works in America.</p><p> Forty essays examine the condition of all five levels of government in America--city county regional state and federal. They describe and examine the structures operations and services provided by each level as well as how they are financed.</p>