This elective course focuses on European politics, leaders, and institutions in the wake of the collapse of communism in 1989. After a four-lesson introduction, contemporary Europe is examined in the context of five organizing principles: state formation, democracy, institutions, political economy, and the international order. For each principle, the course examines definitions, preconditions, and application in and across several European countries. Throughout the course, an emphasis is placed on answering three thematic questions: what forces shape European politics? As a result of these forces, what are the prospects for stability in Europe? And what are the challenges facing Europe as it moves into the 21st century?
Lessons
40 @ 55 min (2.500 Att/wk)
Labs
0 @ 0 min
Special requirements
Each cadet will read an introductory book and write a research paper on an adopted country. In addition, each cadet will lead the discussion on one lesson.
