Elgar Advanced Introductions are stimulating and thoughtful introductions to major fields in the social sciences, business and law, expertly written by the world's leading scholars. Designed to be accessible yet rigorous, they offer concise and lucid surveys of the substantive and policy issues associated with discrete subject areas. This Advanced Introduction provides an overview of election law, and how this fulfills its commitment to democratic self-rule. Identifying differences in conceptions of democracy worldwide, James A. Gardner surveys the major approaches to a variety of problems routinely encountered by democratic states, including distribution of the franchise, political representation, conditions for removal from office, and the function and regulation of political parties. Key Features: Investigates the implementation of underlying theories of democracy Provides insights into discouraging global trends of democratic backsliding Evaluates the pros and cons of the types of choices election law must make Examines issues arising from state attempts to control political speech and the flow of money that supports it This is a valuable reference for students and scholars of constitutional law, administrative law, and political science. Its comparative approach and comprehensive coverage is also beneficial to legislators and policymakers of academic law and politics.