POL 395-01 - Advanced Special Topic: Direct Democracy and Referenda

4 credits (Spring)

Should governments ask their citizens what they want? Do referendums improve democracy or promote equality? This course explores the normative and empirical arguments in favor and against referendums. It explores the ways in which the direct will of the people is institutionalized, the increasing use of referenda globally, and the consequences of framing important constitutional questions in single-issue questions that only have yes/no answers. We will focus on their impact in transitions to democracy, democratic reversal, peace processes, secessionism and populism.

Prerequisite or co-requisite: POL 219, POL 255, POL 257, POL 258, POL 261, POL 262, or POL 273.
Note: Plus-2 option available.
Instructor: Sala

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