PG 348 - Latin American Politics

This course examines the political systems, social groupings and economic development of Latin America. It will examine the numerous differences in the countries of the region, while keeping in focus the common characteristics that unite them. The class will discuss who the important political actors are and the various “rules of the game” for governing. The class will also discuss the role of the military in politics, political instability and revolution, competing approaches to economic development, the wave of democratization that has swept the region, and the characteristics and prospects of these emerging in democracies. Students will have the opportunity to become knowledgeable about particular countries in Latin America, while also gaining a broader perspective of common problems and issues facing the region. R-option.