Why are some countries democratic, but others are not? What is the best institutional framework for multi-ethnic societies? Why are corruption and clientelism rampant in some countries, but not in others? And how do we explain the changing nature of political activism across the globe? This unit answers these and other questions as it introduces students to some key concepts and analytical tools in the field of comparative politics. Using examples from a wide range of countries, it examines how institutions, ideas and social structures affect the nature of political systems and shape processes of socio-political change. Upon completion, students will be equipped with a firm grounding in important analytical skills required for more advanced subjects in political science, international relations and international development.

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