Course Description and Objectives. In the eyes of the western media and all those who care about the conditions of mankind, Africa is a continent in crises. The manifold African crises have been the subject of media coverage, learned journal articles, lofty statements by political leaders of all persuasions, and international rescue effort virtually from all concerned parties. However, many students of the politics of Africa hardly understand the nature of African crises. Therefore, these students can hardly offer a lasting and sustainable solutions because they are blinded by some social background and politico-ideological persuasion.

The purpose of this course is to analyze the AAfrican condition@ from a political and economic perspective. More specifically, the course seeks to place African crisis in its historical, social, economic, political and human context. While the course does not attempt to offer any ready-made prescriptions, it is expected that it will, in a small way, provoke students into thinking about possible and lasting solutions to the current problems confronting the African continent. Although the African continent embraces a large number of diverse countries, this course will present a few general propositions that might be applicable to all. Our discussion will also draw heavily on case study materials from four African countries in respect to some specific critical factors, or variables, which determine the nature of their political economies. These countries are South Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, and Kenya.

Course Prerequisites: This course is open to junior or senior students in social sciences or students who have already taken POLSC 333 or POLSC 344.

Course Requirements. Attendance is required and will be done randomly. Class participation will be based on questions from the WWW, newspapers, TVs news, and reading materials. One individual project is required. I will discuss the topic in class and make specific recommendations. Examinations are take home and will be given two weeks prior to the due date. There are two book reviews and their presentation.
1. Attendance, African map, and participation 10%

2. Book Reviews 30%
3. Individual Project 20%
4. Mid-term examination 15%
5. Final examination 25%

Textbooks and Map. Reading materials shall be from the following books:

1. Chazan, Naomi et al. Politics and Society in Contemporary Africa. Boulder: Lynne Rienner Publishers, 1999.

2. Ayittey, George B. Africa in Chaos. New York: St. Martin=s Griffin, 1999.

3. A Course Pack (see Eisenhower Copy Center)

I. Introduction