Description
The general aim of this course is to provide students an overview of political parties’ development in new democracies. In this course you will also review the increasing changes in various party systems, as well as the long-term implication of these changes for the continuing legitimacy and functioning of political parties.
The readings are selected to familiarize students with the particularities of Eastern European politics. The lectures are designed to complement the information received from texts and to delve into issues related to the socioeconomic and institutional environment in which parties act and exert their influence, the positioning over issues, and the implications of party system (in(stability in the region. The main topics addressed by this course are: the formation of political parties in new democracies, their role in the political system, the relationships developed by parties with the state and society, their organizational capacity, and the ties with voters.
The assigned readings include chapters from books and journal articles. The course should be completed with an original research paper (approximately 4,000 words) that fits one topic covered in class (at choice and after prior discussion with the instructor). Students are expected to read the assigned texts and contribute to the class discussions.
Method of instruction
Every class is organized as a lecture in its first part and seminar style with discussions on the bases of readings and lectures.
Study material
Readings will be made available in a folder at the FSW library.
Approximate total number of pages of assigned readings: 500.
Examination
The final grade is based on:
Final paper: 65%
Mid-term assignments: 25%
Class activity and participation: 10%.
Details are included in the syllabus and will be extensively discussed in class during our first session.
Schedule
woensdag 9 september en 30 september, 11.00-13.00 uur, 5A29 en
donderdag 3 september t/m 22 oktober, 11.00-13.00 uur, 1A15
Ingangseisen
Comparative Analysis of Political Systems