IST 343 Africa: Politics, Society, and Culture
A general introduction to politics on the African continent. The first part of the course explores African political systems chronologically from pre-colonial forms, through the colonial period, and into the current post-colonial system. The second half of the course looks at several political challenges facing Africa today, bringing in specific country examples to illustrate how those challenges are being met. Examples include: the ethnic factor, the legacy of colonialism, democratic transitions, and conflict resolution strategies. Some topical issues such as the environment, population and health are also examined.