PL5110 - Shifting Geopolitical Environments in Emerging States

This is a comparative politics subject, with an emphasis on relations between established and emerging states in geopolitical environment. It first introduces students to a variety of analytical approaches to understanding politics in the emerging world. It will then compare important political practices and institutions of various countries, including structures of government, military in politics, bureaucratic politics, economic development, political parties and participation, civil society and democratisation, political violence and opposition. Empirically, the subject will focus on the Asia-Pacific region, a region of immense political, economic and strategic importance to Australia, but students will be given the opportunity to work on other parts of the emerging world, such as Latin America, Africa and the Baltic states.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate advanced and integrated knowledge of political concepts on emerging states;
• Analyse critically, evaluate political/economic/social systems, institutions, structures and/or practices in emerging states;
• Generate, analyse, synthesis and evaluate complex political perspectives and power relations within and between emerging states, taking into account social, historical, economic, environmental and/or cultural issues;
• Appraise the place and role of Australia's political economy and governance in the Asia-Pacific region.

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination - In class - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Proposal - (20%) - Individual
• Written > Research report - (40%) - Individual.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.