Comparative Politics Analysis 2

Pluralist System

Many competing groups with less state control.

Corporatist System

State controls which groups have access.

Mexico vs China (Political Systems)

Mexico is moving toward a pluralist system; China has a corporatist system.

Advantages of Corporatism

Stability and efficiency.

Disadvantages of Corporatism

Limits dissent.

Advantages of Pluralism

More representation.

Disadvantages of Pluralism

Slower policy making.

Tariffs

Lower tariffs lead to cheaper goods and globalization; higher tariffs protect domestic industry.

Mexico vs Nigeria (Tariffs)

Mexico has reduced tariffs; Nigeria protects domestic industries.

Devolution

Power is distributed from national to regional/local levels.

UK vs China (Devolution)

UK has devolved power; China is highly centralized.

Advantages of Devolution

Better local representation, more participation, and policy innovation.

Disadvantages of Devolution

Inequality between regions and conflicting policies.

Executive Term Limits

Rules governing the maximum time an executive can serve.

Mexico vs Russia (Term Limits)

Mexico has a strict one-term limit; Russia has extended leadership with weak limits.

Advantages of Term Limits

Prevents dictatorship and encourages new leadership.

Disadvantages of Term Limits

Loss of experienced leaders and lame duck problem.

Grassroots Social Movements

Organized efforts by ordinary people to effect change.

Nigeria vs Iran (Social Movements)

Nigeria has groups like MOSOP and MEND; Iran has a more suppressed Green Movement.

Advantages of Grassroots Movements

Hard to suppress and can mobilize quickly.

Disadvantages of Grassroots Movements

Lack organization and harder to negotiate.

Austerity Measures

Policies aimed at reducing government deficits.

UK vs Nigeria (Austerity)

Both have used austerity measures at times.

Effects of Austerity

Reduces deficits but cuts public services.

Authoritarian Regimes & Participation

Participation is used to create legitimacy, control people, and limit opposition.

China vs Iran (Participation)

Both are authoritarian and control citizen participation.

Political Socialization

The process by which individuals learn and internalize political values.

China vs UK (Political Socialization)

China uses state-controlled media; the UK has diverse sources.