POL - 125 Government and Comparative Politics

(3 s.h.)

This course is an introduction to the comparative study of government and politics across and within countries. It utilizes comparative methods to analyze questions of political systems, such as how they are created and organized; how and why they change; and why various political institutions generate different outcomes. The differences between nations and states, democratic and authoritarian regimes, presidential and parliamentary systems, and federal and unitary systems, are emphasized. Sources of political, ethnic, and religious conflict across and within countries are also explored. Country cases are drawn from different regions of the world to ground students in a set of tools for comparative analysis. The ability to engage in comparative analysis is important for success in many occupations and professions; thereby directly contributing to a higher quality of life. In addition, the course encourages civic responsibility among students by comparing the U.S. government to other governments around world and recognizing the similar problems and challenges faced by such governments.

Lecture Hours: 45
Lab Hours: 0
Clinical Hours: 0
Work Experience Hours: 0