This course explores politics in contemporary sub-Saharan Africa.
While not glossing over the depth and recurrence of crises in
Africa, this course seeks to uncover our commonly-held assumptions
and go beyond simple stereotypes.  During the course, we will try to
understand the complexity, variety and fluidity of African
politics.  Topics will include the relevance of “traditional”
political systems; the impact of colonial rule; the challenges of
building new nations and states; the rise of authoritarian regimes;
the process of democratization; the management of ethnic, regional,
religious and class conflict; the political challenges of economic
development; the role of international actors, in particular, the
U.S., UN, World Bank and non-governmental organizations; and the
impact of globalization. The requirements for the course are to
attend all classes, do all assigned reading, participate in class
discussion and small group activities, write two short papers (4-5
pages each), and take one mid-term exam, one final exam and one map
quiz.  The course has no prerequisites so students are welcomed with
any or no previous knowledge of both political science and Africa.
Not only will students learn more about Africa, but Africa can teach
them about other parts of the developing world and themselves.  By
the end of the course, students will see how the challenges and
problems confronting African societies concern us all.