This course examines the theory and practice of western democratic systems. Case studies include the governments of the United States, England, France, Germany, Japan and some small democratic nations in Europe. The socialist part covers such topics as the main features and patterns of socialism, the main principles of Marxism, democratic socialism, government structure, political culture, and political participation.

CILO-1: Define key concepts in comparative politics, including but not limited to nation-states, regime change, religion and politics, gender and politics, political violence and globalization. CILO-2: Discuss theories of comparative analysis within the discipline of political science. CILO-3: Explore and evaluate the significance of specific historical events in the context of the political and economic development of selected countries. CILO-4: Demonstrate the ability to analyze contemporary political issues using comparative methods.