Modules
Courses / Modules / PAIR1002 Comparative Politics

Comparative Politics

When you'll study it
Semester 1
CATS points
15
ECTS points
7.5
Level
Level 4
Module lead
Mariana Borges Martins Da Silva
Academic year
2025-26

Module overview

Are you curious about politics around the world? Have you ever wondered why countries develop such different political systems—why some build strong democracies while others face democratic backsliding? At the same time, why do global political trends, like the crisis of political representation, seem to emerge across vastly different societies? In this module, we will explore these critical questions. You will learn key concepts and theories that explain how political systems function worldwide. We will also examine how social scientists have studied these issues scientifically, and you will be challenged to think critically about the tools used to classify and analyze political systems. Through this journey, you will sharpen your analytical and critical thinking skills, move beyond the headlines, challenge conventional wisdom, and develop new perspectives on the forces shaping contemporary politics. Pre-requisite for PAIR2031, PAIR2037, PAIR3039 and PAIR3046