Political Science - Latin American Politics

Catalog description

This course will explore the major challenges to development and democratization in the region, from the colonial era to the present times. Throughout, we will use comparative academic literature, newspaper articles, and movies to grasp the great diversity of the political dynamics of Latin America. The course will start with colonialism, state formation, and economic development strategies (e.g., ISI and neoliberal economic policies). Then, we will move on to processes of democratic and non-democratic rule: populism, military coups, democratization, the left turn, and problems of political representation. We will end with an analysis of current political issues the region is facing today, including economic instability, inequality, clientelism, corruption, and crime. Formerly known as POLS 659. Not open to students with credit in POLS 659. Prerequisite: POLS 150 or consent of the instructor.