This class will provide a general introduction to the study of political systems worldwide. The approach and many of the readings will be theoretical, but we will draw from real-world examples as illustrations of these theoretical concepts. Thus, a basic understanding of world history, current events, and even the American political system will be assumed. This course is a requirement for all students who intend to major in political science and is a prerequisite for a number of other courses in the subfield of comparative politics. It is also a good choice for students wishing to satisfy a behavioral science distribution requirement. Offered fall and spring semesters.
