In the French Republic political leadership is normally provided by the presidency, albeit from a very narrow constitutional base. This volume examines the strengths and weaknesses of that leadership as well as the way that executive power has been established in the republican context.
With The Presidents of the French Fifth Republic, Bell and Gaffney have produced an extremely valuable book that combines a sophisticated analysis of individual Presidents with reflection on political leadership that is historically sensitive and contextually rich, yet which also provides valuable generic analysis. I strongly recommend this book.
Alistair Cole, Cardiff School of European Languages, Translation and Politics, Cardiff University, UK
Alistair Cole, Cardiff School of European Languages, Translation and Politics, Cardiff University, UK