GT 22M — Introduction to African Politics

Lecturer: Dave Gosse, Ph.D
E-mail: dave.gosse@uwimona.edu.jm

Course Outline

This course provides an introduction to the politics of Africa. Of the many challenges to students of the continent, one is the assumption that the continent poses a series of problems, the answers to which lie in the adoption of Western economics and politics. Colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade, their negative consequences notwithstanding, are seen by some as ‘having prepared’ Africa for that road. The course encourages discussion of these issues and the varying interpretations of African political realities. Africa’s possibilities are mostly always underestimated. Some of the concepts, theories and frameworks developed in political science are examined but none of these close the debate as to how best to understand African complexities and how best to think about a different future for the continent and its peoples.

Course Requirements

• Research Paper One from Ques 1-3, (4-5 pages), 10%. Due the end of September
• Research Paper Two from Ques 4-6, (6-8 pages), 15 %. Due the end of October
• Research Paper Three from Ques 7-10 (6-8 pages), 15%. Due the end of November
• Final Examination – 60%

These research papers should include notes and bibliography.