Course Syllabus
Three additional reading materials:
(1) Cases in Comparative Politics (third edition) by Patrick H.O'Neil, Karl Fields, and Don Share
(2) Essentials ofComparative Politics (third edition) by Patrick H. O'Neil
(3) Nations& Governments: Comparative Politics in a Regional Perspective (sixth edition)by Thomas M. Magstadt
Note: More description of the books, read the section IV (Main textbooks and supplementary readings) below.
I. BASIC INFORMATION
Name
of Institution: Department of International Studies (DIS),
Institute of Foreign Languages (IFL),Royal University of Phnom Penh (RUPP)
Lecturers: LAK Chansok (LCS)
Date: Semester II, 2015
Course Title: Comparative Politics
Course Code: IS307
Credit Unit: 3 credits, 15 weeks, 3 hours/week (45 hours in total)
II. COURSE DESCRIPTION
Comparative Politics, one of sub-fields of political science, distinctively introduces students to important concepts, themes, and approaches in the comparative study of politics. Different from other sub-fields of political science that have relatively well-defined areas of study (e.g., International Relations, History of Political Thought, Western Political Thought, etc.), the range of Comparative Politics is relatively broad. In Comparative Politics, some people work on general questions, such as what are the effects of democracy and autocracy?, while others work on specific questions, such as what is the role of religion in Indian political parties?
Moreover, there are various methodologies employed in Comparative Politics, including case studies, small-n comparisons, and large-n statistical studies. However, the field is united by a commitment to test theories of political phenomena using empirical examples.
This course is organized around questions that reflect both interesting phenomena and puzzles that call for some kind of explanation. We will examine some of the answers to these questions that have been proposed on the basis of comparative research. By the end of the course, the students will have acquired a broad perspective of the field of Comparative Politics and the ability to relate some of their own interests to existing concerns of other scholars.
Topics include democracy, autocracy or dictatorship, economic roles of the state, domestic political systems, political parties, interest groups, multi-level governments as well as political ideologies, such as conservatism, liberalism, socialism, etc. (in the first main textbook).
This course, in addition, requires the students to have knowledge of specific cases. Therefore, they are required to focus on nine country studies that describe politics in the United Kingdom, the United States, Japan, China, Iran, Brazil, South Africa, Singapore and Indonesia (six of those nine cases are in the second main textbook of this course).
III. COURSE OBJECTIVES
This course is designed for
students to achieve three important objectives as follow:
- To introduce students to important concepts, themes, and approaches in comparative politics in order to well prepare them to investigate the world more critically and systematically, to thoroughly understand assigned case studies, and to compare those case studies to Cambodia case to find out what should and should not be learnt so that the students can learn and understand what approaches and models are appropriate in Cambodia’s political, social, and economic development context;
- To train students to read academic articles and books critically; and
- To give you practice in writing short analytical papers that will be presented at the end of the semester.
IV. MAIN TEXTBOOKS AND SUPPLEMENTARY READINGS
There are two main textbooks that are specifically used for this course. Those textbooks are (1)
- To introduce students to important concepts, themes, and approaches in comparative politics in order to well prepare them to investigate the world more critically and systematically, to thoroughly understand assigned case studies, and to compare those case studies to Cambodia case to find out what should and should not be learnt so that the students can learn and understand what approaches and models are appropriate in Cambodia’s political, social, and economic development context;
- To train students to read academic articles and books critically; and
- To give you practice in writing short analytical papers that will be presented at the end of the semester.
IV. MAIN TEXTBOOKS AND SUPPLEMENTARY READINGS
There are two main textbooks that are specifically used for this course. Those textbooks are (1)
Foundation
of Comparative Politics (second edition) by Kenneth Newton and Jan W. Van
Deth and (2) Cases in Comparative Politics (third edition) by Patrick H.
O'Neil, Karl Fields, and Don Share.
(1) Foundations of Comparative Politics is a basic and student-friendly introduction to the key theories and concepts of comparative politics and provides even broader coverage of the world’s democracies, with examples drawn from across the globe. This textbook contains a wealth of information, clearly structured and easy to read, with clear definition of key terms. It covers all the important themes in the field, including constitutional design and institutions; mass and elite politics; policy-making and implementation; and the future of the state and democracy in a globalizing world. A new chapter on studying comparative politics, and new What Have We Learned? and Lessons of Comparison summary sections help students pull together the lessons of each chapter. Combining facts and theory throughout, debate is stimulated through the use of Controversy boxes, and Fact Files and Briefings give students interesting data that illustrates the key issues in the text.
(2) Cases in Comparative Politics is about the case studies (countries studied in the field of comparative politics). Specifically, it is a set of thirteen country studies that describe politics in the United Kingdom, the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Russia, China, India, Iran, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, and Nigeria. This casebook applies the conceptual framework developed in the text across countries with a consistent organization that facilitates comparison and aids understanding. So, students can use this second textbook for their assignments in which they will be asked to thoroughly understand their assigned countries and thus compare them to Cambodia case to find out what approaches and models that contextually work best for Cambodia’s political, social, and economic development. Of course, the students will be required to present their written assignments at the end of the semester.
Other four books will be used as the supplementary reading materials. Those four books are (1) Comparative Politics: Domestic Response to Global Challenges (fourth edition) by Charles Hauss, (2) Introduction to Comparative Politics: Concepts and Processes (second edition) by Howard J. Wiarda, (3) Essentials of Comparative Politics (third edition) by Patrick H. O'Neil, and (4) Nations & Governments: Comparative Politics in a Regional Perspective (sixth edition) by Thomas M. Magstadt.
(1) Comparative Politics: Domestic Response to Global Challenges (fourth edition) uses a unique theme to engage students in thinking and discussing comparative politics - the theme of domestic responses to global challenges. It introduces the key concepts and examines the growing interdependence among strong and weak states through the discussion of 12 countries, including the U.S. and the European community. The countries discussed are categorized by economic development, helping students develop their skills of comparison, synthesis and interpretation amongst countries of similar economic status. Students will gain an understanding of some of the most important general trends, an exposure to politics in a number of countries, and a desire to dig more deeply into this fascinating and exciting field of comparative politics.
(2) Introduction to Comparative Politics: Concepts and Processes (second edition) is a brief, lively, and well-written text sparking students' interest by focusing on current trends, issues, and controversies in the field. Through this focus, Wiarda gives students an overview of the field, traces its history and development, and surveys newer approaches in a sequential and systematic fashion.
(3) Essentials of Comparative Politics (third edition) introduces students to the concepts that political scientists use to study and compare political systems and the particulars of specific political systems. The text is available with a corresponding casebook of 14 country studies and a reader—the three components can be used individually or in any combination.
(4) Nations & Governments: Comparative Politics in a Regional Perspective (sixth edition), with a unique regional organization and conceptual approach, helps students understand national governments more fully by putting them into a larger regional context. This text documents the changes brought on by the post-Soviet era and the age of globalization, while charting the progress of emerging markets and democracies around the world. This new edition looks closely at the impact of the global recession, providing up-to-date analysis of national policy responses. It also details the continuing rise of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, with case-study coverage of each country.
V. PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS
Students in this course are highly expected to read the assigned materials, particularly the main textbooks. In addition to the main textbooks, they are required to read the above recommended books and other supplementary reading materials (e.g. articles from J-Store and other accessed academic journals). The reading materials are very important not only for students’ knowledge inquiry but also for them to carry out a written report or major assignment, two (surprised or/and informed) quizzes, two progress tests, and one final written exam or semester exam, as required in the course.
Reading: Students are highly required to read on a weekly basis the materials assigned by the course instructor (as described in the Course Outline and/or provided as a supplement) prior to attending the class. Further reading related to the course’s subject and sharing of information obtained from such materials with the classroom are highly encouraged and, of course, very crucial for students’ class participation as one of grading criteria.
Major Written Assignment: Students in groups are expected to produce a written report by the end of the semester. The topics are the same as those on which the students present. Further details with regards to organization and content of the report will be discussed at the beginning of the course. The students are advised to consult with the course instructor throughout their writing process to stay on track and achieve optimal positive outcomes.
Presentation: Students in groups are required to prepare and deliver a 20-minute presentation on materials and topics they have covered in their major written assignments. Criteria for the presentation will be detailed at a reasonable time prior to the presentation week.
Progress Tests: Before and after presentation week, students will sit for two progress tests as part of the revision. The tests will mostly involve key terms as well as short and critical-thinking questions to help students reflect on the materials they have been studying since the beginning of the course. Further details will be explained at least one week prior to the test date.
Semester Exam: The semester exam or final exam will be conducted one or two weeks after the completion of this course. The exam consists of some key terms, some critical-thinking questions (and short-answered questions if deemed fit) and an essay piece on one of the topics provided by the instructor. Details on structure and contents of the exam will be explained in due time.
VI. METHODS OF INSTRUCTION
Student-center approach is very preferred since such method enables more inputs from the students and can generate more interaction in the class. Besides proving some key concepts and explanation during lectures, lecturers also act as guidance, providing necessary help and advice for the students.
VII. GRADING CRITERIA/ASSESSMENT
On-going Assessment: 60%
- Progress Test (each worth 10%) 20%
(1) Foundations of Comparative Politics is a basic and student-friendly introduction to the key theories and concepts of comparative politics and provides even broader coverage of the world’s democracies, with examples drawn from across the globe. This textbook contains a wealth of information, clearly structured and easy to read, with clear definition of key terms. It covers all the important themes in the field, including constitutional design and institutions; mass and elite politics; policy-making and implementation; and the future of the state and democracy in a globalizing world. A new chapter on studying comparative politics, and new What Have We Learned? and Lessons of Comparison summary sections help students pull together the lessons of each chapter. Combining facts and theory throughout, debate is stimulated through the use of Controversy boxes, and Fact Files and Briefings give students interesting data that illustrates the key issues in the text.
(2) Cases in Comparative Politics is about the case studies (countries studied in the field of comparative politics). Specifically, it is a set of thirteen country studies that describe politics in the United Kingdom, the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Russia, China, India, Iran, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, and Nigeria. This casebook applies the conceptual framework developed in the text across countries with a consistent organization that facilitates comparison and aids understanding. So, students can use this second textbook for their assignments in which they will be asked to thoroughly understand their assigned countries and thus compare them to Cambodia case to find out what approaches and models that contextually work best for Cambodia’s political, social, and economic development. Of course, the students will be required to present their written assignments at the end of the semester.
Other four books will be used as the supplementary reading materials. Those four books are (1) Comparative Politics: Domestic Response to Global Challenges (fourth edition) by Charles Hauss, (2) Introduction to Comparative Politics: Concepts and Processes (second edition) by Howard J. Wiarda, (3) Essentials of Comparative Politics (third edition) by Patrick H. O'Neil, and (4) Nations & Governments: Comparative Politics in a Regional Perspective (sixth edition) by Thomas M. Magstadt.
(1) Comparative Politics: Domestic Response to Global Challenges (fourth edition) uses a unique theme to engage students in thinking and discussing comparative politics - the theme of domestic responses to global challenges. It introduces the key concepts and examines the growing interdependence among strong and weak states through the discussion of 12 countries, including the U.S. and the European community. The countries discussed are categorized by economic development, helping students develop their skills of comparison, synthesis and interpretation amongst countries of similar economic status. Students will gain an understanding of some of the most important general trends, an exposure to politics in a number of countries, and a desire to dig more deeply into this fascinating and exciting field of comparative politics.
(2) Introduction to Comparative Politics: Concepts and Processes (second edition) is a brief, lively, and well-written text sparking students' interest by focusing on current trends, issues, and controversies in the field. Through this focus, Wiarda gives students an overview of the field, traces its history and development, and surveys newer approaches in a sequential and systematic fashion.
(3) Essentials of Comparative Politics (third edition) introduces students to the concepts that political scientists use to study and compare political systems and the particulars of specific political systems. The text is available with a corresponding casebook of 14 country studies and a reader—the three components can be used individually or in any combination.
(4) Nations & Governments: Comparative Politics in a Regional Perspective (sixth edition), with a unique regional organization and conceptual approach, helps students understand national governments more fully by putting them into a larger regional context. This text documents the changes brought on by the post-Soviet era and the age of globalization, while charting the progress of emerging markets and democracies around the world. This new edition looks closely at the impact of the global recession, providing up-to-date analysis of national policy responses. It also details the continuing rise of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, with case-study coverage of each country.
V. PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS
Students in this course are highly expected to read the assigned materials, particularly the main textbooks. In addition to the main textbooks, they are required to read the above recommended books and other supplementary reading materials (e.g. articles from J-Store and other accessed academic journals). The reading materials are very important not only for students’ knowledge inquiry but also for them to carry out a written report or major assignment, two (surprised or/and informed) quizzes, two progress tests, and one final written exam or semester exam, as required in the course.
Reading: Students are highly required to read on a weekly basis the materials assigned by the course instructor (as described in the Course Outline and/or provided as a supplement) prior to attending the class. Further reading related to the course’s subject and sharing of information obtained from such materials with the classroom are highly encouraged and, of course, very crucial for students’ class participation as one of grading criteria.
Major Written Assignment: Students in groups are expected to produce a written report by the end of the semester. The topics are the same as those on which the students present. Further details with regards to organization and content of the report will be discussed at the beginning of the course. The students are advised to consult with the course instructor throughout their writing process to stay on track and achieve optimal positive outcomes.
Presentation: Students in groups are required to prepare and deliver a 20-minute presentation on materials and topics they have covered in their major written assignments. Criteria for the presentation will be detailed at a reasonable time prior to the presentation week.
Progress Tests: Before and after presentation week, students will sit for two progress tests as part of the revision. The tests will mostly involve key terms as well as short and critical-thinking questions to help students reflect on the materials they have been studying since the beginning of the course. Further details will be explained at least one week prior to the test date.
Semester Exam: The semester exam or final exam will be conducted one or two weeks after the completion of this course. The exam consists of some key terms, some critical-thinking questions (and short-answered questions if deemed fit) and an essay piece on one of the topics provided by the instructor. Details on structure and contents of the exam will be explained in due time.
VI. METHODS OF INSTRUCTION
Student-center approach is very preferred since such method enables more inputs from the students and can generate more interaction in the class. Besides proving some key concepts and explanation during lectures, lecturers also act as guidance, providing necessary help and advice for the students.
VII. GRADING CRITERIA/ASSESSMENT
On-going Assessment: 60%
- Progress Test (each worth 10%) 20%
- Major Assignment (Paper 10% and
Presentation 10%) 20%
- Quizzes (each quiz 05%) 10%
- Class
Participation 10%
Semester/Final Exam: 40%
Total 100%
Total 100%
VIII.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hauss, C.
(2002). Comparative Politics: Domestic Response to Global Challenges (4th ed.). The United States of America:
Wadsworth Cengage Learning.
Magstadt, M.
T. (2011). Nations and Governments: Comparative Politics in Regional
Perspective (6th ed.). The United States of America:
Wadsworth Cengage Learning.
Newton, K.,
& Deth, V. W. (2010). Foundations of Comparative Politics: Democracies
of Modern States (2nd ed.). The United States of America:
Cambridge University Press.
O’neil, H. P.,
Fields, K., & Share, D. (2010). Cases in Comparative Politics (3rd ed.). The United States of America: W. W.
Norton & Company, Inc.
O’neil, H. P.
(2010). Essentials of Comparative Politics (3rd ed.). The United States of America: W. W.
Norton & Company, Inc.
Wiarda, J. H.
(2000). Introduction to Comparative Politics: Concepts and Processes (2nd ed.). The United States of America: Earl
McPeek.
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