Introduction to Comparative Politics (250-0-20)

Instructors

Kevin Andrew Mazur

Meeting Info

University Hall 102: Mon, Wed 3:30PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

This course provides a broad survey of the field of comparative politics, which studies countries' domestic politics. It will acquaint students with some of the 'classics' of the field and engage these theories with contemporary cases. Topics covered include why citizens obey political authority; how the modern state developed; why some countries have advanced economies and others do not; why some countries have democratic political systems and others do not; and the United States in comparative perspective.

Learning Objectives

At the end of the course, students should be able to identify the major questions examined in comparative politics and the broad contours of leading theories proposed to answer those questions. The course also aims to develop students' critical reading and analytical skills and help them refine their writing skills.

Teaching Method

Lecture and discussion sections

Evaluation Method

(1) a mid-term exam, worth 25 percent of the final grade (2) a final exam, worth 35 percent of the final grade (3) an essay, worth 20 percent of the final grade (4) participation in discussion sections, worth 20 percent of the final grade

Class Materials (Required)

None

Class Attributes

Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area

Associated Classes

DIS - University Hall 112: Wed 5:00PM - 5:50PM

DIS - Locy Hall 109: Wed 5:00PM - 5:50PM

DIS - Kresge Centennial Hall 2-343: Thurs 10:00AM - 10:50AM

DIS - University Hall 318: Thurs 10:00AM - 10:50AM