Undergraduate Module Descriptor

POL2103: The Logic of Democracies and Dictatorships

This module descriptor refers to the 2019/0 academic year.

Module Aims

In this module we aim to:

  • introduce you to the key concepts in the study of comparative politics regime type;
  • provide you with some of the analytical tools necessary to evaluate them;
  • and show you how these concepts and theories relate to empirical cases around the world.

We also aim to provide a supportive learning environment that fosters you academic and personal development.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here – you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.

On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. Demonstrate a solid understanding of key concepts in the study of comparative politics of regime type
2. Demonstrate good understanding of the central methodology of comparative politics – the logic of comparison
3. Apply concepts to cases using the comparative method
Discipline-Specific Skills4. use precisely defined concepts to compare different cases that share specific criteria;
5. Understand the path from concept, to the measurement of empirical phenomena;
Personal and Key Skills6. engage with social science databases
7. Develop abstract thinking that focuses on shared characteristics of different cases
8. Develop precise judgment over empirical differences