Comparative Politics
POLS 361 Paper One Assignment Due October 10th
For this assignment, you are to select one of the following options for your topic and write a 5 to 6 page paper in response. The paper is due in class (hard copy) and deposited electronically via the Essay One Assignment in Blackboard on Oct. 10th at 12:30pm. Late papers will be penalized. It is worth 10% of your grade.
Topic One: The State, its institutions and origins
A) How do countries create and maintain political power? What are some of the ways we can measure that power and strength? Why are some states weak, fragile and even prone to failure? Use these prompts to stimulate your thinking on the subject of the state. Then write an essay focusing on explaining at least two aspects of the states’ origins, evolution, and/or power. Use the material from our two texts books and the readings for your arguments.
B) Pick a developing country: First describe the origins of its modern state structure. Then using the concepts of territoriality, sovereignty, legitimacy and bureaucracy, analyze the state’s strengths and weaknesses.
Topic Two: States, Citizens and Regimes
A) Using material and case studies from our text books, consider the question how do different ideologies and regime types balance the rights of citizens with the state’s ability to compel obedience?
B) Do the case reveal patters that suggest where different regime types emerge and why? What factors do you think account for the emergence of different regime types?
Specific technical requirements:
1. The essay must be typed, using 12 point type size, standard margins and no double spacing between paragraphs.
2. Strong essays will have a purpose statement and provide a roadmap for the reader in the introduction. The conclusion will offer conclusions the entire essay not just the last point.
3. You should include a title page and list of references. The title page and list of references do not count as part of your page limitations.
4. You should not include a quotation longer than 20 words. I want the paper to be primarily in your own words.
5. You must utilize (reference) at least four sources that can include our two main texts. Good papers will utilize the required materials and demonstrate your understanding and ability to work with those materials. Not utilizing course materials will result in no grade higher than a C. Of course, you may have more than five sources for this paper, if you choose.
6. Papers should use the Chicago in text citation format. See blackboard for an electronic version of the ACE handout.
7. All papers should contain minimal grammar and typographical errors.