Political Science 345

POSC 345

Developing Country Politics 

Catalog Entry

POSC 345. Developing Country Politics (CG)
Three hours lecture and discussion (3).

Analysis of processes, problems, and prospects of modernization in underdeveloped areas of the world. Asian, African, and Latin American countries used as examples.

Note(s): Cultural or Behavioral Analysis designated course. Students may not receive credit for POSC 445 and POSC 345.

 

Detailed Description of Content of Course

Topics may include:

 

I. Introduction

 

A. Why study comparative politics?
B. Why study the "Third World?"
C. Scope and methods of comparative politics
D. Methodology: The study of developing countries

 

II. The Western Experience of Modernization
III. The Developing Nations: Some Common Problems and Characteristics
IV. Modernization: What it Entails

 

A. "Traditional" society and government
B. "Modern" society and government
C. The Process of Modernization

 

1. Social
2. Political
3. Economic

 

D. The choices of Modernization
E. Nationalism and National Integration

 

V. Alternative Paths and Models of Modernization
VI. Ideology in the Developing Nations
VII. Government and Economics in the Developing Nations
IX. Political Systems of the Developing Nations
X. The International Sphere

 

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

An informal lecture course, which provides for extensive discussion and student‑teacher dialogue.

 

Goals and Objectives of the Course

Learning Goals:

This course introduces students to the more irregular politics of developing countries.  It helps students to understand the process and changes associated with economic development and underdevelopment.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Students describe behaviors, beliefs, cultures, social institutions, and/or environments. 

2. Students analyze the interactions of behaviors, beliefs, cultures, social institutions, and/or environments.   

 

Assessment Measures

Grade for the course may be determined by exams, quizzes, student presentations, class participation, and research and/or essay papers.

 

Other Course Information

none

Review and Approval

DATE ACTION REVIEWED BY
February1999 Title change M. J. Franck, Dept. Chair

March 01, 2021