Comparative Politics

This course explores the theories and practice of democratic transition and consolidation in the international system. What does increased democratization mean for international relations and what obstacles remain to its consolidation? Both the cultural and civic elements of democratic consolidation as well as the institutional elements that shape the character, effectiveness, and legitimacy of democracies will be explored.

This course explores the politics of migration and immigrant populations. National and international constraints and opportunities structure the position and status of immigrants. We compare the economic, political, and social organization of immigrant groups across countries, and study the effects of immigration, housing, education, and economic policies for immigrant adaptation.

This course explores terrorism as a political strategy. Terrorism is unique in contrast with other types of negotiation and other types of state-society and inter state engagement. Students will weigh the implications of this modern weapon through the lens of theories about the nation-state, minority rights, revolution and their own moral theories.

Individual study under the direction of a member of the political science department, with the approval of the chairman.

Credit arranged.

Credit arranged.

Credit arranged.

Credit arranged.

Internships are individually arranged and may be done at the national, state, or local levels of government. Students will be required to supplement their field experience with appropriate readings arranged with the instructor prior to registration along with a required research project in the area of the internship.

Research, study, or original work under the direction of a faculty mentor, leading to a scholarly thesis document with a public presentation of results. Requires approval of thesis director, department chair, dean, and the director of the honors program, when appropriate.