It’s a little early, but I’m starting to think about books for Spring 2008, when I teach Latin American Government & Politics again. I’ve decided that country focuses (yes, I know it’s actually “foci”) are probably best (and well liked by students), but I want ones that highlight some distinct element of a “comparative politics” approach to the study of Latin America.
Besides a basic textbook (I may or may not use the classic Skidmore & Smith Modern Latin America
I figure the three books hit a different “kind” of country, as well as tackle different current concepts & approaches in the comparative study of Latin American politics: the resurgence of populism, bureaucratic-authoritarianism & “pacted” transitions, and public opinion in new democracies. I figure if each book takes two weeks, that still leaves more than half the semester to tackle other issues.
BTW, you’re always welcome to browse through my Latin American politics Latin American politics
