POL 1201: Politics Across Cultures

Abstract

1. Course Description Why do some countries enjoy democracy while others endure dictatorships? What is the relationship between political institutions and economic development? How can we account for similarities and/or differences in terms of political and economic development across regions? This course provides answers to these questions by focusing on Comparative Politics—one of the main sub-fields of Political Science. Topics include the different types of political regimes, forms of democratic governance, party systems and electoral systems, elections under authoritarianism, populism and comparative development. Classes will consist of lectures dictated by the instructor. Active student participation is highly encouraged. Students are advised to come prepared to class by doing all the readings. Complementary readings (those listed under For Background) are not required, though students should use them for references and/or resources. 2. Course Objectives This course aims for students to learn about: § The State and the different types of government that exist throughout the world. § The challenges for democratization in some countries § The relationship between political and economic development. § The various types of party systems and electoral systems that are used around the world. § The trends and challenges that account for the expansion of development and democratization.