Comparative Politics Essay.
Pick one of the questions below and write a 5 pages paper. I will send the required readings and lecture notes based on the question you choose. 1- Discuss the relationship between a state’s level of autonomy (ability/power to act independently) and the quality of its democracy. 2- There is a relationship between political culture and political developments. Discuss. 3- Do economic openness and rising inequalities necessarily go together? Why or why not? 4 – What explains the rise of protectionism? 5- What is the right balance between democracy, national sovereignty and global economic integration? Why? 6- Are markets fair, either via a harmony of interest or “law of the jungle” rationale? Why or why not? 7- Why is there opposition to free trade? 8- Should the state steer the process of economic development, or should market forces be given centre stage? Why? 9- Should democracies rely more on public initiatives or referenda to decide policy, or are forms of indirect democracy better? Why or why not? 10- Economic development leads to democracy. Discuss. 11- Can Asian development experiences be exported to other regions of the world? Why or why not? 12- Is the Chinese model sustainable? Why or why not? Grading Criteria for short essays The essay must do the following five things: 1. Present an analytical argument that is a clear answer to the question (develop a personal interpretation); 2. Use existing theoretical approaches when relevant (integration of class material and readings); 3. Recognize the diversity of views and approaches in the literature; 4. Offer some factually correct, compelling evidence to support your argument (quality of empirical research); 5. Communicate the above in a clear, structured, analytical style (good outline, good transitions, good writing style). Specific formatting requirements: 1. You must footnote all references (quotes, use of evidence, etc.), or use brackets in the text 2. You must include a final bibliography (using a consistent, broadly accepted format, no matter which one) 3. The essay must adhere to standard rules of English concerning spelling, grammar, and vocabulary 4. Length: 4 pages minimum, 6 pages maximum, not including notes and bibliography (I reserve the right to stop reading after 6 pages) 5. Font: 12 points 6. Margins: one-inch margins on all sides 7. Spacing: double-spaced Resources needed to write the papers: The class readings and lectures are sufficient to write a good paper. However, it may be helpful to complement the required readings with some supplementary readings.