This seminar critically examines the conceptualization, measurement, and comparative analysis of democracy, exploring key debates on its definition, indicators, and causal effects. It interrogates whether democracy should be seen as a measurable spectrum or a distinct category, questioning the reliability of democracy indices and their role in political science research. Discussions include the relationship between democracy and economic development, political representation, and regime classification, while also addressing the impact of the third wave of democratization. Students will engage with theoretical and empirical literature, analyze data, and develop research skills, culminating in group or individual projects presented at a student conference.
- Dozent/in: Adeola Ogundotun