West European Politics

An introduction to the domestic politics of Western Europe since 1945, focusing on Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and the European Union. Topics include representation, the role of the state in promoting economic growth, social capital and democratic performance, transitions to democracy, and the welfare state. The second half of the course will focus on issues high on the current European agenda, including unemployment, economic reform, the rise of far-right parties and globalization. 3 hrs. lect./disc. (Comparative Politics)/