You need to activate javascript for this site.
Menu Conteúdo Rodapé
  1. Home
  2. Courses
  3. Political Science and International Relations
  4. Comparative Politics

Comparative Politics

Code 15454
Year 2
Semester S1
ECTS Credits 6
Workload OT(15H)/TP(45H)
Scientific area Ciência Política
Entry requirements N/A
Learning outcomes 1) Understand the relevance of using Comparative Politics.
2) Learn how to conduct comparative research in Political Science.
3) Become familiar with the various research methods in Comparative Politics.
4) Know how to identify the method (or methods) to use in comparative research in Political Science.
Syllabus 1. Comparative Politics in Political Science
1.1. What is Comparative Politics about?
1.2. Why is comparison important?
1.3. Comparative approach and analytical traditions in Political Science
1.4. The classical foundations of the comparative approach

2. Research Design in Comparative Politics
2.1. Conceptualization and operationalization
2.2. Causal relationships
2.3. Variables and indicators
2.4. Case selection
2.5. Space-temporal delimitation
2.6. Hypothesis

3. Research Methods in Comparative Politics
3.1. The comparative method
3.2. The statistical method
3.3. The experimental method
3.4. The case study

4. Operationalizing Research in Comparative Politics
4.1. Applying the methodology to contemporary issues
Main Bibliography - Schmitter, P. (2009). The nature and future of comparative politics. European Political Science Review, 1 (1), 33-61.
- Burnhum, P. (2008). Research Methods in Politics. London: Palgrave Macmillan.
- Sartori, G., & Morlino, L. (1994). La Comparacion em las ciencias sociales. Madrid: Alianza.
- Lijphart, A. (1971), Comparative Politics and the Comparative Method. The American Political Science Review, 65 (3), 682-693.
- Porta, D., & Keating, M. (2008). Approaches and Methodologies in the Social Sciences: A Pluralist Perspective. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
- Moses, J., & Knutsen, T. (2012). Way of Knowing: Competing methodologies in Social and Political Research. New York: Palgrave Macmillan.
- McDermott, R. (2002). Experimental Methodology in Political Science. Political analysis, 10 (4), 325-342.
- Peters, Guy B. (1998). Comparative Politics: Theory and Methods. New York: New York University Press.
- Boix, C., & Stokes, S. (2007). The Oxford Handbook of Comparative Politi
Teaching Methodologies and Assessment Criteria Theoretical-practical classes involving a combination of lectures by the teacher with their respective application by the students. The teacher presents the subject and students are welcome to make relevant contributions or ask any questions they may have. Whenever possible, the second part of the class is dedicated to the practical application of the subject (through group work, quizzes, brainstorming sessions, and other practical exercises), with students developing their work under the guidance of the teacher.
Normal assessment regime:
- Test: 50% (10 points)
- Submission of group work: 30% (6 points)
- Group work presentation: 10% (2 points)
- Participation in practical activities in class: 10% (2 points)

Alternative assessment regime (students with overlapping classes and working students):

- Test: 50% (10 points)
- Individual work: 50% (10 points)

- Students are admitted to the exam with a minimum grade of 6 points.
Language Portuguese. Tutorial support is available in English.
Last updated on: 2025-01-07

The cookies used in this website do not collect personal information that helps to identify you. By continuing you agree to the cookie policy.