James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2021

PL2110 - Government and Politics in Developing Areas

Available every year.

Subject Description

This is a comparative politics subject, with an emphasis on nation-building in emerging countries. 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

• 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

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination - In class - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Essay (including multi-draft) 1 - (35%) - Individual
• Written > Research report - (25%) - Individual

Note that 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.

Assumed Knowledge:  To undertake this subject, students must have successfully completed 12 credit points (four subjects) of level 1 study at tertiary level

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  PL3110 PL5110

Availabilities