UNIT 1: Understanding Political Systems, Regimes, and Governments

In the complex tapestry of our world, nations are not isolated islands; rather, they are interconnected threads woven into the fabric of global politics. To comprehend the intricate dynamics that shape our global landscape, we embark on a journey into the realm of comparative politics. Here, we explore the similarities and disparities between states, unraveling the intricacies of political realities and the winds of political change.

UNIT 2 - Political Institutions

As we journey deeper into the realm of comparative politics, our vessel sails onward to Unit 2, where we delve into the intricate architecture of political institutions. Here, the structure and functioning of governments will be unveiled, illuminating the foundations upon which power is built and maintained across our six course countries: China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, and the United Kingdom.

Unit 3: Political Culture and Participation

In the realm of comparative politics, our journey now takes us to the heart of political culture and participation. Here, we venture into the intricate dynamics that unfold between a nation\'s government and its people. At the core of this exploration lies the recognition that the character and demands of a society profoundly shape its political landscape. We delve into how citizens, whether acting individually or collectively, actively engage in the political process. Additionally, we dissect the pivotal role played by social divisions, be it along the lines of ethnicity, religion, or socio-economic class, in shaping political realities.

One central theme we will unravel is the concept of civil society—an extensive array of voluntary associations that operate independently from the state\'s influence. Within this diverse realm, we discover the mechanisms that mediate state power and empower citizens. A fundamental aspect of our study here revolves around understanding participation across the spectrum, whether in authoritarian regimes or within democratic systems. This comprehension sets the stage for our subsequent exploration, where we will meticulously analyze the impact of political parties and electoral processes on political engagement.

UNIT 4: Party and Electoral Systems and Citizen Organizations

In this unit, we\'ll delve into the intricate web of political institutions and explore how individuals, political parties, and citizen organizations strive to gain influence and power within a government. We\'ll break down the larger concepts from Unit 2 and examine how these entities shape the political landscape in the six countries we\'re studying. Understanding how political power is exercised, be it through formal electoral systems or informal channels, is crucial for comprehending the broader global context of policy-making.

One key focus of this unit is electoral systems and the rules that govern them. We\'ll explore how these systems can either facilitate or hinder citizen participation and examine the far-reaching implications they have on political behavior and decision-making. Additionally, we\'ll delve into how regimes grant or limit access to various sources of power and how this control ultimately shapes policies on both domestic and international fronts.

UNIT 5: Political and Economic Changes and Development

In this unit, we will dive deep into the dynamic interplay between political and economic changes within and among the countries we\'ve been exploring. You\'ll find that understanding this interaction is crucial for comprehending the complex global landscape and how it influences political decisions and behaviors.

Over the past three decades, each of the countries we\'ve studied has experienced profound shifts in both its political and economic spheres. We will explore political changes through the lens of democratization and examine the degree to which these efforts have succeeded or faced challenges. Simultaneously, we\'ll investigate how economic globalization has impacted local populations, international relationships, and the responses of nations to the challenges that this new economic reality presents.