24-204.22 Latin American Politics and Society [Präsenz]

Instructors: Prof. Dr. Merike Helena Blofield

Event type: Seminar

Displayed in timetable as: VRS1: Latin American

Hours per week: 2

Credits: 6,0

Language of instruction: English

Min. | Max. participants: 10 | 23

Comments/contents:
The course will be held in english and the readings will be in english. 

 This course provides an overview of contemporary Latin American politics and scholarly literature through a combination of themes and country case studies. As a Master’s- level course, it assumes a solid understanding of basic political science concepts. The course focuses on 21st century politics, including the challenges of political representation and the efforts to address the enduring challenges of economic development, inequalities and poverty through economic, social and labor policy; and the challenges of state capacity, rule of law, and violence. We will deepen our understanding of these themes through country case studies.

Learning objectives:
By successfully completing this course, students will gain an understanding of the key themes in Latin American politics and society and how scholars approach them; the connections between politics, economics and society; and the deeper structural and historical context in which current events play out.

Didactic concept:
The class will be held as an interactive seminar.
Students are expected to do all required readings before class each week, and come prepared to discuss and debate the reading material.

Literature:
Books:
Munck, G., & Luna, J. (2022). Latin American Politics and Society: A Comparative and Historical Analysis. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. doi:10.1017/9781108769570

Kingstone, P. (2018). The Political Economy of Latin America: Reflections on Neoliberalism and Development after the Commodity Boom (2nd ed.). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315682877

Articles, chapters and reports:
Available via Stine for every class period. The detailed syllabus will be provided on the first day of class.

Additional examination information:
A) Mandatory course tasks (required to pass):
*Attendance and participation, based on readings, in course seminars. Your participation will be evaluated based upon the quality of your contributions to class discussion as well as attendance.

*Two analytical essays, based on class material and complementary research
Length: 1500-1750 words.
Deadlines: Essay 1, due May 25 by 5 pm;
Essay 2, due July 13 at the beginning of class.

B) Module exam (graded):
The same tasks as above, but graded.