POLS6011 Introduction to Comparative Politics

Course Code: POLS6011

Course Tutor: Dr James Melton (Department of Political Science)

Length: One term (Autumn Term)

Teaching: 20 hours lectures/seminars

Assessment: Two 2,000 word essays (40/60%)

Credits: 0.5 course units, 4 (US) 7.5 (ECTS)

About this course

This course addresses the primary theoretical debates regarding domestic political activity within various countries. It is called comparative politics due to its emphasis on the similarities and differences within states’ domestic political systems. The course will examine both institutional structures and societal composition, including how the two interact to produce political outcomes. Institutional topics covered include the nature of states, political and economic development, different constitutional and electoral systems, different regime types, and regime transitions. With regard to society, the course will examine different models of political decision making, how institutions constrain political decision making, aspects of civil society and political culture, as well as political mobilization and contentious politics. Some attention will also be given to the causes of political outcomes, such as whether institutions or individuals matter more in politics.

At the end of this course students will:

• have a broad understanding of the institutional similarities and differences of domestic political systems, including the basics of constitutions and electoral systems

• understand how individuals’ preferences and culture interact with institutional constraints to yield political outcomes

• learn to apply the comparative approach to understand the causes of domestic political outcomes