POL378H1S L0101

Topics in Comparative Politics II

Genocide in Comparative Perspectives

Themes

This course provides students with the intellectual framework for understanding the numerous, complex, and often emotional issues related genocide for political science. Over the duration of the course, we will explore the theoretical, social, legal, and political basis for the understanding of genocide as a distinct analytical concept. Examination of several major cases of genocide throughout the modern era to contemporary times will provide the foundation for comparative analysis, as well as the exploration of selected broad themes. Those core themes of the course include the following:
• The development and meaning of term genocide and its legal, political, and scholarly implications.
• The background, sources, causes and effects of genocide.
• How to recognize, define and predict genocide.
• The Gendered dimensions of genocide.
• Genocide denial.
• Methods and strategies to help prevent genocide.

Texts

All readings will be provided electronically to students on Quercus.

Format and Requirements

Class Participation - 20%, two mini reading responses - 15% each, final essay - 50%.