"The American Statehouse examines the interplay of architecture and politics in all fifty state capitols. Using careful analysis and photographs of exteriors and interiors, Goodsell demonstrates how architectural elements embody political values and ideas; influence the behavior of politicians, lobbyists, and the news media; and both awe and unite the citizenry. He concludes that a statehouse's design is a telling expression of the practice of democratic politics.".

"At the nexus of architectural studies and political science, this book is about the interaction of architecture and politics in America's state capitols.

Goodsell utilizes three conceptual frameworks to offer what he calls a social interpretation of architecture: the first devoted to seeking political values or ideas embedded within the buildings, the second concerned with the effects of the buildings on contemporary political behavior, and the third dedicated to appraisal of the larger impressions the buildings make on society. Goodsell concludes that the statehouse enshrines majestic state authority on the one hand and liberal representative government on the other.

The American statehouse, then, is not just a temple - of the state - but a temple of democracy - of the people."--BOOK JACKET.