Latin American Politics

Description

The process of political and economic change in Latin America has been complex - involving a changing cast of actors and an evolving spectrum of motivating ideas. This module will introduce students to some of the debates around politics in the Latin American context. Course aims: The process of political and economic change in Latin America has been complex - involving a changing cast of actors and an evolving spectrum of motivating ideas. This module will introduce students to some of the debates around politics in the Latin American context. It will examine the changing relationship between the state, civil society and citizens since 1980. The course will cover various aspects of the democratisation process in the region. In the first two weeks it will consider the concepts at the centre of the debates. This followed by an examination of the 'transition to democracy' and subsequently by discussions of the different elements which have played a key role in shaping contemporary politics in Latin America . Finally, it will address some of the challenges confronting Latin American states today. Intended learning outcomes: By the end of this course students will be able to: ■ Understand theoretical ideas drawn from the field of comparative politics, as applied to Latin America ■ D evelop an appreciation for the economic and social issues that remain sources of division in Latin America after transitions. ■ S ynthesise material from a range of academic sources ■ Argue effectively in writing using a number of sources that are correctly referenced ■ D ebate articulately the various models of democracy and their usefulness in explaining Latin American politics