2010-2011 Academic Catalog

May 05, 2024

2010-2011 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

HIST 287 - ID173 - Introduction to Latin-American Politics

Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion

As an introduction to the study of Latin-American politics, this course demands no prerequisites except a basic curiosity about the region and a desire to learn about its development over the past century. In an effort to understand contemporary politics in the region, we consider alternative theoretical explanations for patterns of development as well as analyze the historical role played by influential political actors, including the Church, the military, economic elites, workers and peasants. Some of the fundamental questions we will be asking include: What is the relationship between a country’s social and economic conditions and its political system? Why have so many Latin-American nations alternated between democratic and authoritarian regimes? What is the relationship between Latin America and the so-called “First World,” particularly the United States? In attempts to answer these questions, the course will examine the political systems of countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Guatemala.

Cross Listed: PSCI 173, PSTD 173

Instructor: Mr. Posner

When Offered: Offered every year

Faculty: Paul W. Posner, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Government