Introductory description

This module offers an introduction to the exploration of politics through the perspective of comparative politics scholars. It presents a comprehensive overview of topics such as states and political regimes, democracy, authoritarianism, development, revolutions, nationalism, climate change and migration. Furthermore, it analyses how these macro-phenomena influence the micro-political landscape of state institutions, including governments and parliaments, parties and elections, and grassroots movements, among others. While comparative politics traditionally focuses on domestic politics within states, this course also examines international dimensions such as democracy promotion and climate change. Beyond examining these substantial questions, the module acquaints students with methodologies for empirically analyzing real-world political challenges. Ultimately, the module strives to equip students for advanced political science courses in two key ways. Firstly, it develops skills in constructing and evaluating political arguments. Secondly, it introduces some of the methodologies employed by political scientists in their research.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The following is an indicative list of topics; the precise seminar content and order may change slightly from year to year.

Week 1: Introduction: The Course, Comparative Politics and the Comparative Method

Week 2: States and Political Regimes

Week 3: Political Institutions

Week 4: Elections, Political Parties, Populism

Week 5: Political Economy and Development

Week 6: Reading Week

Week 7: Nationalism and Ethnic Conflict

Week 8: Social Movements and Revolutions

Week 9: Migration and the Far Right

Week 10: Globalisation and Climate Change

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate a basic understanding of how comparative politics contributes to the study of politics as a whole.
• Demonstrate a basic knowledge of different approaches to the study of comparative politics, including a critical awareness of the role claimed by quantitative methods.
• Be able to relate scholarly literature theorising comparative politics and actual contemporary political developments including very topical events.
• Be able to make informed comparisons of various strengths and weaknesses of different political systems or regimes.

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Specific reading list for the module

Research element

Students write a research essay in this module.

International

The topics covered in this module are all international in scope.

Subject specific skills

Theoretical and empirical understanding of comparative politics

Transferable skills

The module provides students with opportunities to acquire or develop the following key skills:

• Written communication skills
• Oral communication skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Skills in the use of information technology
• Skills of interpretation and the critical analysis of primary and secondary sources
• Awareness and sensitivity to diversity (in terms of people, cultures) and the ability to understand unfamiliar ideas and ways of thinking
• Ability to digest, retain and apply complex information and ideas
• Ability to conduct research and reference their work appropriately
• Time management skills and the ability to meet deadlines
• The ability to reflect critically on the extent and limitations of how and what they have learned, discovered and understood.