Comparative politics is the study of how countries are governed, ranging from ordinary citizens to political elites and core political institutions. Much of the research in the field seeks to explain differences and similarities between political systems, and the consequences these have.
Research in comparative politics examines individual and collective political decision-making within countries across different parts of the world. Central questions include, for example, the difference between strong and weak states and between democracy and dictatorship, what explains countries’ movements between them, and how this matters for the economy and for society at large. Researchers study how political conflicts of interest arise and how political actors, organisations and institutions at different levels shape policy outcomes. The field also analyses political behaviour, that is, how individuals and groups act, think and make decisions in relation to the political system. Taken together, this research aims to advance our understanding of the global challenges facing states and societies.