PL2110 - Government and Politics in Developing Areas

[Offered in odd-numbered years]

This is a comparative politics subject, with an emphasis on nation-building in developing countries. It first introduces students to a variety of analytical approaches to understanding politics in the developing 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 developing world, such as Latin America, Africa and Eastern Europe.

Learning Outcomes

• broaden students horizons on and appreciation of the different political systems and practices;
• enhance students skills in approaches to comparative political studies;
• enhance students skills in research and writing in the discipline of political science;
• provide students with the ability to analyse and evaluate political events in developing countries more critically;
• value students own political system against others.

Graduate Qualities

• The ability to think critically, to analyse and evaluate claims, evidence and arguments;
• The ability to adapt knowledge to new situations;
• The ability to define and to solve problems in at least one discipline area;
• The ability to speak and write logically, clearly and creatively;
• A coherent and disciplined body of skills, knowledge, values and professional ethics in at least one discipline area;
• The ability to learn independently and in a self-directed manner;
• A commitment to lifelong learning and intellectual development.

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.