Time Schedule:
Ellis Goldberg
POL S 204
Seattle Campus
Political systems in a comparative framework. Traditional and contemporary approaches to the study of governments and societies in different countries. Offered: WSp.
Class description
Description. Students who take this course should expect to gain three types of knowledge by the conclusion. First, they should understand the historical emergence of the nation-state and the trend toward democracy during the 20th century. Second, they should expect to understand important differences between states and specifically the challenges posed by globalization to existing states in the late twentieth century. The same pressures and institutions that have made some countries more democratic have also led to civil war and ethnic massacre in others. Third, students should come to understand that comparative politics as a discipline employs a stylized account of history and institutions called “cases” to discuss political values and possibilities. The names “Britain,” “Russia” and “Japan” are not only places; they are also a shorthand for understanding twentieth century politics. Students in this course may choose to participate in service learning. Service learning students will have the opportunity to engage in active learning through service work at one of several local organizations concerned with refugee, immigrant, or labor issues.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Texts: John McCormick, Comparative Politics in Transition; James Watson, Golden Arches East; Philip Gourevitch, We wish to inform you that tomorrow we will be killed with our families: stories from Rwanda.
Class assignments and grading
The grade for the course will be based on results from a mid-term and final examination.
Grading. Examination: 35 % Mid-term 25 % Worksheets: 20 % Essay 20 % TOTAL: 100 %
