Global Comparative Politics

The course is conceived as a general introduction to Comparative Politics, with a special focus on the comparative analysis of contemporary representative institutions. The reading material will not include advanced institutional studies and sophisticated quantitative analyses. However, a basic knowledge of political science and political geography is required. The text book suggested for non-attending students will be a good instrument to fill the cognitive gaps of students with different educational backgrounds The course aims at providing skills and information for anyone looking for a robust knowledge of the major issues in contemporary comparative politics and some practical abilities in analyzing data and trends concerning the changes within the current political systems today. In times of deep social and political transformations, these skills are important not only for prospective scholars but, also, for an increasing number of public servants and professionals who want to pursue a career in media, national and supranational NGOs, international agencies, governmental and multilateral organizations, non-profit organizations and international corporations.