Introduction to Comparative Politics

This course introduces students to the study of comparative politics, defined as the study of domestic politics in both developing and advanced industrial countries. Course topics include the relationship between capitalism, democracy, and economic development; the implications of political institutional choices (such as electoral systems); the politics of ethnic diversity and conflict; and the dynamics of political mobilization (including protest). The course also provides an introduction to the comparative method, using both "classics" and recent research as examples.