Democracy and Autocracy (361-0-20)
Instructors
Edward L Gibson
Meeting Info
Kresge Cent. Hall 2-380 Kaplan: Tues, Thurs 11:00AM - 12:20PM
Overview of class
The late 20th century's global wave of transitions from authoritarianism to democracy was heralded by many as the historic triumph of Liberal Democracy over all other forms of governance. It marked an 'end point' to political evolution, where henceforth democracy would be the only legitimate game in town. However, a more sober perspective prevails today. A global trend of regressions from democracy to autocracy, often with mass political support, has replaced the democratizing trend. In this course we will examine meanings of "autocracy" and "democracy" and debates about how transitions from authoritarianism to democracy succeed or fail. Then we will turn to analysis of the contemporary global trend of "backsliding" by established democracies toward more autocratic politics. Country case studies will be drawn from Western Europe, the Middle East, the Western Hemisphere, and Eastern Europe.
Registration Requirements
Social & Behavioral Sciences
Recommended prerequisite class: Introduction to Comparative Politics (Poli Sci 250)
Attendance at first class required
Learning Objectives
The major theoretical debates about autocratic and democratic political regimes and how these very across different parts of the world.
Evaluation Method
Mid-term test: 20%
Mid-term essay: 20%
Final test: 20%
Final essay: 20%
Discussion section: 20%
Class Attributes
Social and Behavioral Science Foundational Discipl
Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area
Associated Classes
DIS - Kresge Centennial Hall 2-420: Thurs 1:00PM - 1:50PM
DIS - Kresge Centennial Hall 2-430: Thurs 2:00PM - 2:50PM