Introduction to Comparative Politics

This course sets out to examine worldwide political trends and major types of government in modern times. After a basic introduction to comparative politics (and political sociology), the first half of the course will trace the socio-economic breakthroughs of western societies that have turned them both into pivotal global players and into pioneers of popular government. The second half, then, will address the meaning of these breakthroughs for the rest of the world focusing on the grand dilemma of whether to “modernize” (and follow the western political model), or to strive to recast the human condition in the name of one or another revolutionary ideology (communism, fascism, or the recent quest for universal divine justice). These represent fundamental challenges to our own form of government. To deal with them it will be not enough to preach democracy, but will require turning our own democracy into an effective instrument of greater equity and equality around the world. The course will consist of lectures and discussion sections. Assigned materials will be included in a single Reader available at Copy Central on Bancroft Avenue. Requirements include a short (7-10 page) paper, midterm and final exams. The instructor will hold office hours in 736 Barrows on Wednesdays 3-5. It is strongly recommended that prospective students brush up on their knowledge of global geography and of the main events and currents of modern history.