Scholars of Comparative Politics investigate similarities and differences in patterns of politics across the world. They engage in within-country, cross-national, and cross-regional research with a geographic focus outside the United States (although the US may be included as a case in cross-national comparative research). Comparativists use a variety of methods and often possess deep expertise in particular countries or regions. This knowledge is important for the purpose of systematic comparison, theory building, theory testing, and awareness of context specific variables and causal relationships masked by immersion in our own polities and societies. The field of Comparative Politics includes, among others, the study of political institutions and regimes; electoral behavior and procedures; identity, ideology, and culture; public policy; political economy; political violence; social movements and organizations; and protest and revolution.
Comparative Politics Faculty
Rikhil R. Bhavnani
Position title: Associate Chair & Director of Graduate Studies | Professor: Comparative Politics | Political Methodology
Steven Brooke
Position title: Associate Professor: Comparative Politics | Director, Middle East Studies Program
Nils Ringe
Position title: Associate Chair for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion | Professor | Robert F. and Sylvia T. Wagner Chair | Comparative Politics
Nadav Shelef
Position title: Department Chair | Professor | Comparative Politics | International Relations
Erica Simmons
Position title: Booth Fowler Professor: Comparative Politics | Political Methodology | Faculty Director, International Studies Major
Zhenhuan (Reed) Lei
Position title: Assistant Professor Political Science and Public Affairs : Comparative Politics | Politics Methodology
