GV4E1 Half Unit
Comparative Democratization in a Global Age
This information is for the 2019/20 session.
Teacher responsible
Dr William Kissane
Availability
This course is available on the MSc in Comparative Politics, MSc in Conflict Studies and MSc in Global Politics. This course is available with permission as an outside option to students on other programmes where regulations permit.
The deadline for applications is 17:00 on Tuesday 1 October 2019. You will be informed of the outcome by 17:00 on Wednesday 2 October 2019
Course content
To introduce students to the fundamental political science debates about the phenomenon of democratization, to explore the explanatory strength of key paradigms, and to compare distinct modes of democratization. Specific topics are: Definitions of democratization and democratic consolidation; waves of democratization, capitalist development and democratization, elite transitions, post-civil war democracy, hybrid regimes, democratic backsliding, the current crisis of democracy.
Teaching
15 hours of lectures and 15 hours of seminars in the MT. 1 hour and 30 minutes of seminars in the LT.
There will be a reading week in week 6 of the MT for private study and assessment preparation.
Formative coursework
All students are expected to submit one non-assessed essay.
Indicative reading
D Potter et al, Democratization, J. Grugel, Democratization, Rueschmeyer, Stephens and Stephens, Capitalist Development and Democracy; J Linz and A S Stepan, Problems of Democratic Transition and Consolidation
Assessment
Exam (100%, duration: 2 hours) in the summer exam period.
Student performance results
(2015/16 - 2017/18 combined)
| Classification | % of students |
|---|---|
| Distinction | 16.4 |
| Merit | 63 |
| Pass | 17.8 |
| Fail | 2.7 |
Key facts
Department: Government
Total students 2018/19: 25
Average class size 2018/19: 13
Controlled access 2018/19: No
Value: Half Unit
Personal development skills
- Communication
