Slide 1

A Framework for ComparisonsConceptual Approach to Comparative Government & Politics

MexicoNigeriaBritainIranChinaRussiaHow can we compare 6 different countries that have different histories, cultures, peoples, governments, politics, values, views on the world, policies, futures, etc.?

1.Systems TheoryModels for Comparison

We will use the current health care debate to illustrate this process.

Interest Groups groups formed to lobby around specific issues and concerns of a groupEx.) Trade Unions, Business Associations, Military ContractorsPolitical Parties larger entity that tries to bring together the interests of a number of groups & gain control over government.Ex.) Democrats, RepublicansProtestors/Rebels outside the system groups that try to influence governmentEx.) 9/11 Hijackers

Models for ComparisonInputs ways average citizens and their groups engage in political life. Ex.) voting, attending listening sessions

Models for ComparisonDecision Making influenced/determined by the structure of their institution and the values, skills, & personalities of their leaders. Output (Policy) regulatory, redistributive, and symbolic actions by government Ex.) Health Care Reform, Taxes, Changing the National Anthem (Iran 1979)Feedback process through which people find out about policy & the ways in which their reactions help the next phase of the processEx.) Media

Models for ComparisonEnvironment everything lying outside the political system that influences through this process Ex.) HistoryEx.) Social, Economic, Physical ConditionEx.) Global Forces (increasingly important factor)

2. Three World ApproachSystem used prior to the early 1990s1st World The United States & Its Allies2nd World The Soviet Union & Its Allies3rd World Nations that didnt fit above and were all economically underdeveloped & deprived. Models for Comparison

3. 21st Century/Modern ApproachSince the end of the Cold War, the world has changed politically, economically, & socially Advanced Democracies Nations Communist/Post-Communist NationsNewly Industrializing/Less Developed Nations

Models for Comparison

Advanced DemocraciesAP GAP BritainCharacteristics:Rich, Western countriesRepresentative governmentCompetitive electionsRule of lawActive & Civic cultureLegitimate power of governmentCivil LibertiesPost-Industrial & Mixed Economies

Models for Comparison

Post Communist & CommunistAP GAP Russia & ChinaCharacteristics:Authoritarian/Totalitarian political historiesCommand Economies High levels of social servicesOld infrastructure & industrial capitalBeginnings of market-orientated economiesSocial & Economic Problems

Models for Comparison

Newly Industrializing/Less DevelopedAP GAP Iran, Mexico, NigeriaCharacteristics:Former Colonies of Western PowersPowerful foreign multinational corporations Power of government is weak, unstableDramatic povertyLack of basic public servicesLow political integrationSerious ethnic conflictLarge gap in wealth and educationRapid population growthEnvironmental degradation

Models for Comparison