This course provides an introduction to the comparative study of politics. It covers a variety of questions facing nations, societies, political parties and political institutions. After providing students with a general understanding of the field of comparative politics, including government systems, electoral proceedings and relations between various branches of government, the course will then focus on comparing countries with various political, social and economic backgrounds. Countries examined range from industrialized and developed Western countries to underdeveloped and new countries in the Global South. Upon completion of the course, students should have a basic understanding of the function and operation of various political institutions as well the basic political culture of different countries. Instructor-led class may include lectures, discussions, readings, group work and practice exercises. Assessment may include class participation, papers, essays, exams, projects and presentations.
- Instructor: Yevgenya Paturyan