POL S 204 A: Introduction to Comparative Politics

Course Description:

The study of comparative politics shapes the two most important investigations in the study of modern political science: 1) who governs? and 2) how do they govern (or, what are the consequences of who governs for the governed)? Democracies now form the most common regime type around the world, but not without having faced significant problems of transitions to, and performance of, representative forms of government. As a result, the state of democracy in the world is far from healthy or perfect, and many threats remain or continue to arise to threaten the growth and consolidation of democratic regimes in many countries. To understand the opportunities and challenges posed by democratic and non-democratic forms of government, we will cover topics in the comparative study of contemporary politics as it relates to the development of the state; the growth and consolidation of democratic regimes and the persistence of non-democratic/hybrid regimes; race, ethnicity, and social identity; political violence; and poverty, inequality, and economic development. We will draw on historical and contemporary case studies from every world region.

All method of instruction is in person (i.e., no remote or hybrid learning options).

Course Evaluation:

Quiz Section: 30%

Midterm: 30% (in person)

Final Exam: 40% (in person)