Checking date: 26/04/2024


Course: 2024/2025

Comparative Politics I
(13229)
Bachelor in Political Science (Plan: 396 - Estudio: 205)


Coordinating teacher: FERNANDEZ VAZQUEZ, PABLO ALBERTO

Department assigned to the subject: Social Sciences Department

Type: Compulsory
ECTS Credits: 6.0 ECTS

Course:
Semester:




Objectives
Development of analytical and critical thinking skills. Communication skills and writing skills in carrying out work, case studies and exams. Public speaking and presentation skills. Interpersonal skills such as the ability to work in teams or use of the technique of role play. Knowledge of the methods, theories and some substantive issues in the comparison of political systems. Ability to link theoretical issues of comparative politics to evidence
Skills and learning outcomes
Description of contents: programme
1. Introduction - What is Comparative Politics? - Approaches and theories - Research Methods 2. Political Regimes: Definition and Transitions 3. Political institutions 4. Comparative political dynamics - Ethnic identities - clientelism - Corruption 5. The welfare state
Learning activities and methodology
Lectures given by the teacher and activities done by students who will apply the knowledge acquired and develop their skills. The training activities aim to involve students in the learning process. To this end, the teacher will provide basic knowledge and tools needed to strengthen their analytical ability and encourage their critical spirit. In this regard, the reading of selected materials and essays written by students will be fundamental. Likewise, the professor will encourage discussions on current topics, presentations and role play so that students expand their communication and interpersonal skills. This will be complemented by screenings of documentaries / films relating to any matter relevant to the subject. This latter is intended to capture students' interest on issues that sometimes may seem too abstract, without a clear empirical referent. 6 ECTS credits, 150 hours approximately. Lectures and other activities in class: 42 hours Study of the subject by students: 56 hours Preparation of presentations and essays by students: 42 hours Make-up classes, office hours, hand-in of papers, etc.: 8 hours Exam: 2 hours
Assessment System
  • % end-of-term-examination 40
  • % of continuous assessment (assigments, laboratory, practicals...) 60

Calendar of Continuous assessment


Extraordinary call: regulations
Basic Bibliography
  • Clark, R., M. Golder y S. Golder,. Principles of Comparative Politics, 3rd. edition. CQ Press. 2017.
  • David Samuels. Comparative Politics. Pearson. 2013
Additional Bibliography
  • Acemoglu, Daaron y J. Robinson, . Why Nations Fail. Crown Publishing Group. 2012.
  • Acemoglu, Daron y J. Robinson,. Economic origins of dictatorship and democracy. Cambridge University Press. 2009.
  • Boix, C.,. "The roots of democracy". Policy Review 135: 3-21.. 2006.
  • Levistky, S. y Way, L. A., . Competitive Authoritarianism. Hybrid Regimes after the Cold War.. Cambridge University Press.. 2010.
  • Linz, J.J.,. Obras escogidas, vol.4: Democracias: quiebras, transiciones y retos. Centro de Estudios Políticos y Constitucionales. 2009.
  • Morlino, L., . Changes for Democracy: Actors, Structures and Processes. Oxford University Press. 2012.
  • Nohlen, D., . Sistemas electorales y sistemas de partidos . FCE . 2004.
  • Przeworski, A., M. E. Alvarez, J. A. Cheibub y F. Limongi,. Democracy and development: political institutions and well-being in the world, 1950-1990. Cambridge University Press. 2000.
  • Sartori, G.. Cómo hacer ciencia política. Taurus. 2011.
  • Sartori, G.,. Elementos de teoría política. Alianza. 2005.
  • Schedler, A.,. The politics of uncertainty. Oxford University Press. 2013.

The course syllabus may change due academic events or other reasons.