Being Political ― Leadership and Democracy in the Pacific Islands

To counter the widespread association of politicians in the Pacific region with corruption and self-interest, Corbett describes what it is actually like to hold public office in the region. Drawing from 40 published life histories, over 110 in-depth biographical interviews, and observation-based research, he lets a group of people who hold public office talk about their jobs, who they are, how and why the became involved, what it is like when they get in, and why they stay and leave. He covers politicians and anti-politicians; arriving; running and representations; legislation and governing; motivations, intentions, and rewards; leading and leaving; and understanding politicians. Annotation c2015 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)