NON-DEMOCRACIES

POLISCI 206

Examines the psychological aspects of the political behavior of individuals--whether elites, activists or members of general publics--and their consequent political behaviors in various groups and institutional contexts. Not open to students with credit for POLI SCI 267 prior to fall 2017

POLISCI 336

Democracy has come under stress, both at home and across the world. The global decline of democracy has accelerated over the past decade, and levels of democracy enjoyed by the average global citizen today are down to levels last found around 1990. The promise of democracy's inevitable ascent and dominance after the end of the Cold War has proven shortlived. Examines the state and future of a political system we tend to take for granted but should not. Starts with a brief overview of the evolution of the concept of democracy over time. Examines the relationship between democracy and economic development, culture, identity, and religion. Considers and compares core democratic institutions. Investigates current challenges to democracy and democratization and offers an overview of the state of democracy across different world regions.

SOC 624

Theory of democracy, political culture, comparative studies of voting behavior, political decisions, collective violence, regime breakdowns, social movements, mobilization processes, frame analysis.

POLISCI 856

Introduction to leading concepts and theories in the field of comparative politics, including those relating to states, nations, regimes and development. Includes work on many different regions and countries employing a range of research strategies and methodologies.

POLISCI 844

Democracies frequently depart from their ideal type. We focus on select problems with democracy, and examine their causes and effects, and remedies for them. Topics vary from year-to-year, and include inequalities in political representation and participation, a lack of accountability and ethnic voting.