Course Catalog Description: The student will analyze and compare the history, concepts, and structure of liberal democracy, fascism, and socialism. Case studies will be used.
Prerequisites: ENG 100 or higher
Learning Outcomes:
The fundamental purpose of this course is to help you understand why we compare and the methods used in comparing different political systems and states. At the end of this course, students will be able to:
- describe the core theories and social science methods used in comparative politics
- discuss explanations for why some countries are wealthier or poorer than others
- consider explanations for why some states transition to democracy while some stay authoritarian
- outline explanations for why some social movements have succeeded while others fail
- debate whether the democratic peace is coincidence or supported by evidence
- describe patterns in terrorism and violence in different countries
Along the way, you will develop several transferable skills that will help you beyond this classroom to reach your future academic and career goals. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Ethically cite all evidence and information that you use in your informal and formal writing in APA style
- Summarize and analyze what information is important and necessary to understand course readings, videos, and podcasts and what information is less important
- Locate and critically evaluate information in online news media and peer-reviewed articles
- Present strong written arguments supported by reputable evidence in your course assignments
