1. POLITICAL SCIENCE 2300 INTRODUCTION TO COMPARATIVE POLITICS Dr. Steven Wolinetz

2. What is comparative politics? Systematic study of the differences and similarities among political systems? –Why some political systems are similar to each other –Why others differ from each other

3. Why compare? A way of systematically examining something, explaining or accounting for it. A device for understanding certain things – e.g. foreign countries (but also provinces, cities), putting them in context As a means of understanding your own country better

4. What do we compare? Political systems…. Countries…. Provinces or regions Local governments Political parties…… Apples, oranges…

5. Can we compare? Is each case unique? Or are there facets which are similar? Comparing apples and oranges

6. How do we can compare? Looking at most similar cases vs. looking at most different The use of concepts Classificatory schemes, typologies –We v they –Good guys v. bad guys –Democracies vs. non-democracies –Two party v. multiparty system

7. This course: POSC 1000 on steroids ? Expectations: –Completing assigned readings on schedule –Attending class –Actively engaging the material

8. Evaluation Research paper (due April 7 th )20% Midterm (Thursday, Feb. 27 th )20% Final Exam40% Net Assignments, short projects, 20% In-class exercises

9. How do well in this course: Do your readings on time Come to class Read newspapers, follow the news on line ACTIVELY ENGAGE THE MATERIAL

10. No-brainers Cut classes Don’t read – fall way behind Don’t think about the material Don’t submit net assignments Ask the prof: “Sir. I missed your class. Did you do anything important?

11. STUDENT INFORMATION CARD Political Science 2300 Name Student number Local address Home address (if different) Telephone E-mail Year of study Major minor