Instructions:
The major research requirement for the course is a selection of any two countries in the Third
World (preferably from two distinct regions) and assess the political and economic prospects
for the future. Some preliminary concerns that need to be evaluated will include: the level of
political stability, the degree of prosperity, the influence of a political culture, the role played by
history, the influence of leadership and the many intervening forces like religion, insurgency,
military rule, and even outside influences including colonial masters, dominant outside
superpowers (like the US) and even international organizations like the IMF or the UN.
The objective of this assignment is to get an appropriate picture of the political system of the
two countries you select. In addition, the detailed survey of the systems allows for a
comparative analysis of what is similar and different, and what accounts for the respective
similarities or differences between the two countries. What conclusions can one draw from
your findings: are there common experiences for these countries like colonialism of yesteryears and neocolonialism of today, or is the Third World so obviously broad and amorphous
that common characteristics do not exist?
To spice your paper even more, integrate some of the concepts and ideas developed in class
lectures and textbooks like Third Worldism, leadership types, the changing roles of political
parties and other institutions as well as consolidated versus procedural democracies, wherever
these are applicable.
In the end, your paper should reflect the kind of knowledge that you have gained so far in this
class, which should be adequately applied to the countries you select.
As for any paper at this level, pains-taking research effort and early preparation is essential.
Also, constant attention to the on-going development in your countries will add to your
familiarity and expertise. At this stage, you will make the calls as to what issues and subjects
are most relevant for you to include in your paper, but one expects a near-complete or perfect
picture of the political systems in question.
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