This course is meant to provide an opportunity for advanced undergraduates and graduate students to (1) understand the historical, socioeconomic and philosophical context of the communist party states in Eastern Europe, (2) to learn who governs in Eastern Europe and the structures through which they rule, (3) to assess the "dynamics" of communist politics, i.e., factors contributing to political change vis-a-vis political continuity.

Union with emphasis on party-government relations, Communist ideology, and major approaches to the study of Soviet politics.

experiences of China and Japan, exploring their responses to the West, the development of differing political elites in each country, and contemporary problems of the Chinese Communist and Japanese politics.

A study of the interrelationships of the Southern Appalachian region and its people with the larger American political system, culture, and economy. Selective examination of public policies and major issues and their development in the politics of the region.

A comparative analysis of contemporary political development in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, with emphasis on political cultures, participation, institutions and the capabilities of these political systems.