Comparative Political Parties and Electoral Systems

Graduate / Professional

This course explores democratic representation through political parties around the world and the effects of electoral systems on party system development. We critically examine the role of political parties in the representation of societal interests, party system evolution, the consequences of electoral law, and challenges facing modern political parties today with a particular focus on the growth of authoritarian and far-right parties around the world. Prerequisite: introductory course in American politics or comparative politics. It is helpful, although not mandatory, to have taken a course on research design in the social sciences. HTBA