Latin American Politics POLITIC4013

  • Academic Session: 2023-24
  • School: School of Social and Political Sciences
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
  • Typically Offered: Either Semester 1 or Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes

Short 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.

Timetable

This course may not be running this year. For further information please check the Politics and IR Moodle page or contact the subject directly.

Requirements of Entry

Standard entry requirements to Honours Politics or International Relations.

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

Class participation (15%)

Case study blog, 1000 words (25%)

Written essay, 2500 words (60%)

 

Adjustments and/or alternative modes of assessment will be available for students with disabilities which hinder attendance or prevent public speaking.

Main Assessment In: April/May

Are reassessment opportunities available for all summative assessments? Not applicable for Honours courses

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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 of Course

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

■ Develop an appreciation for the economic and social issues that remain sources of division in Latin America after transitions.

■ Synthesise material from a range of academic sources

■ Discuss cogently with the class and synthesise discussions in presentations

■ Argue effectively in writing using a number of sources that are correctly referenced

■ Debate articulately the various models of democracy and their usefulness in explaining Latin American politics

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.