Seminar on Comparative Democratization

This seminar explores critical issues concerning transitions from authoritarian to democratic rule. It addresses such questions as: What factors account for the "third wave" of global democratic expansion? How do newly democratic societies confront their authoritarian past? Should the new leaders choose presidential or parliamentary government? What challenges confront states that are undergoing simultaneously processes of democratic change and economic transformation? What conditions favor consolidation of new democracies? Can democracy's "third wave" be sustained indefinitely, or will a wave of democratic breakdowns follow? To contend with such questions, we will analyze and compare the experience of many countries and regions. (One course in comparative politics) 3 hrs. sem.

(Comparative Politics)/