ONLINE: This lecture-based course examines the institutions and politics of the modern parliamentary systems in the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. It traces their historical development and compares how each country structures its executive and legislative power, as well as its electoral systems that shape political outcomes. Presentations will include a presession narrative and PowerPoints used in class. Sessions will include time for questions and guided discussion, allowing participants to engage more deeply with the material. The course will draw contrasts with the American presidential system, particularly its federal structure and voting processes, and will address current political issues and policy directions in each country. | Lecture + Q&A.
Max enrollment: 25.
Class sessions are recorded.
William Davidshofer holds a PhD in political science from the University of Notre Dame. He researched his doctoral dissertation at the Fondation Nationale des Sciences Politiques in Paris on the French political party system. He also taught a course on comparative government and politics annually at the University of Maine at Presque Isle in his 42-year tenure. A published author, he lives in Durham and has taught over a dozen courses for OLLI.