Skills related to the development of analytical and critical thinking. 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.

1. Introduction - What is comparative politics? - The substance of comparative politics - The method of comparative politics - Evolution of comparative politics 2.Economic development and political regimes - Introduction - The Problem - The seminal study of Lipset: criticisms and new approaches - Quantitative and qualitative comparisons - Final remarks 3. Democratization - Democracies and non-democracies - Transitions to democracy - Democratic consolidation? - The conditions for democracy - Revisiting theories of democratization 4. Institutional design and democratic performance - Introduction - Debates on institutional design: government systems, party systems and electoral systems - The quality of democracy

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.