PSCN-275 Comparative Government

Credits 3 / 3 Contact Hours
Pre-requisite: Placement into RDNG-016  (ACSR-016)
A comparative study of the structures functions issues and performance of governments today. Topics include: methods and concepts of comparative analysis; the nation-state; structures institutions and processes of contemporary governments; political ideologies; and political performance.

Course Outcomes
1.     Outline the theories and methods used in comparative politics

2.     Define types of government

3.     Identify governmental institutions and outline their functions

4.     Describe the relationship between cultural norms, traditions and ideologies and politics

5.     Assess the strengths and weaknesses of the US political system by comparing it to others

6.     Evaluate the role non-state actors play in shaping political outcomes

7.     Outline the factors that determine political participation

8.     Describe the relevance of comparative politics

9.     Evaluate democratic and authoritarian regime types

10. Outline factors affecting the likelihood of democratization

11. Describe the evolution of judicial review and assess its importance

12. Evaluate different types of electoral systems