DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS

COMPARATIVE POLITICAL SYSTEMS: LATIN AMERICA (POLI 225A)

Fall 2014

Dr. Ed Lynch 362-6475;

Office Hours: T-Th 9:00-10:00 and by appointment.
Office: West 119

This course is designed to introduce the student to the most important issues in Latin American politics. It will be divided into three sections. In the first, we will examine the roots of Latin American politics by looking at the history of some major Latin American states. Second, we will see how Latin American leaders have acted recently, through a series of country studies. Third, we will examine some recent interactions between leaders in the region and officials of the U.S.

Course Goals: To develop cultural awareness and knowledge of global systems; to develop an understanding of the interconnectedness of the 21st century; to develop a conceptual framework for understanding global issues and interdependence, especially in Latin America; to provide insight into the emergence of a global community; to examine, analyze and understand the political and economic development of nations and peoples in Latin America.

Course Requirements: Keeping up with the readings, and being prepared to discuss them in class, is an important element of this class. If you get behind, it will be difficult to catch up. Please note that every day’s reading assignment is listed below. Get started immediately and you’ll avoid stressful and useless cramming. Class attendance and participation will count for 15 percent of the final grade.

There will be TWO TESTS, scheduled for October 2 and November 4. They will each count for 20 percent of the final grade. The FINAL EXAMINATION will count for 25 percent of the final grade. Exams will be essay in format. The final exam will be cumulative.

Students will also write a 12-14 page analytical research paper on arecent issue of domestic politics in Latin America. The paper will be due on the penultimate day of class. Students are required to discuss their specific topics with me before Fall Break. The paper will count for 20 percent of the final grade. I welcome the opportunity to read and make comments on first drafts. I will grade papers for analysis, clarity, and extent of research, not necessarily in that order.

One additional word on grades: Average work in my class earns a “C”. Higher grades require above average (B) or exceptional (A) work.

Attendance policy: Students are expected to attend each class and individual students are accountable for any missed classes.

Policy on Make Up Tests: Students who have been excused from taking an exam on the assigned day must contact me to schedule a make-up exam time.

Academic Integrity:Students are expected to adhere to the policies in the "Academic Integrity at Roanoke College" Handbook. In particular, all tests, exams, quizzes and papers are to be the work of the individual student. You are encouraged to get help from the instructor if you need help with an assignment. The work you turn in must be your own.

Required Books:Wiarda and Kline, Latin American Politics and Development

Lynch, The Cold War’s Last Battlefield

Scott & Garrison. The Political Science Student Writer’s Manual, 7th ed.

In addition, there will be occasional Reserve Readings. Also, each student is expected to keep current on events in Latin America, perhaps by daily reading of newspapers online.

Class Schedule and Readings:

PART 1: INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY

Aug28: Introduction

Sept 2: Politics, Political Science, and the Tools of Analysis: A Primer

4: How it All Began: The Real Christopher Columbus

9: Argentina

Wiarda and Kline, ch. 6

11: Argentina, con’t

16: Brazil

Wiarda and Kline, ch. 7

18: Brazil, con’t

Hillman, ch. 5

23: Chile

Wiarda and Kline, ch. 8

25: Chile

PART 2: COUNTRY STUDIES

30: Mexico

Wiarda and Kline, ch. 16

Oct2: TEST #1

7: Bolivia

Wiarda and Kline, ch. 14

9: Bolivia/Peru

Wiarda and Kline, ch. 10

21: Peru

23: Colombia

Wiarda and Kline, ch. 9

28: Colombia, con’t, Venezuela

Wiarda and Kline, ch. 11

Nov4: TEST #2

6: Cuba

Wiarda and Kline, ch. 17

11: Cuba

13: Nicaragua

Wiarda and Kline, ch. 19

18: El Salvador

Wiarda and Kline, ch. 20

PART 3: LATIN AMERICA AND THE UNITED STATES

20: U.S. Latin American Foreign Policy – the beginnings

Lynch, ch. 1-2

25: U.S. Latin American Foreign Policy – the Cold War

Lynch, ch. 3-6

Dec2: U.S. Latin American Foreign Policy – the Shatterbelt

Lynch, ch. 7-10

4: Review

FINAL EXAM
Dec 108:30am - 11:30am