Exploring the Dynamics of Civil Wars: Bridging Gaps and Proposing Solutions

 

Cite three of the readings below: (no other outside sources)

2.1 Kalyvas, Stathis N. 2001. “‘New’ and ‘Old’ Civil Wars: A Valid Distinction?” World Politics 54 (1): 99–118.

2.2Humphreys, Macartan, and Jeremy M. Weinstein. 2008. “Who Fights? The Determinants of Participation in Civil War.” American Journal of Political Science 52(2): 436–55.

2.3Walter, Barbara F. 2017. “The New New Civil Wars.” Annual Review of Political Science 20 (1): 469–86.

2.4 Lyall, Jason, and Isaiah Wilson. 2009. “Rage Against the Machines: Explaining Outcomes in Counterinsurgency Wars.” International Organization 63 (1): 67–106.

3.There are different ways that you can write a response paper. One approach is to focus on multiple readings and look at the big picture. For example, explain how different pieces fit together and/or contrast with one another. Or, you can identify a gap you see in the pieces, and propose ways to address that gap.

A second approach is to make an argument in response to or building on the arguments, issues or ideas presented in the readings. Put forward a thesis statement and build the case for it. In doing that, you can analyze the readings as evidence for your argument, bring in specific examples, and/or draw connections among the readings assigned for that class period.

A third approach is to present a constructive criticism of one or more of the readings for the class. What is the research question posed by the reading(s)? Do you find the argument and evidence presented by the author(s) compelling? Why/why not? How do you think the work can be improved?

 

 

 

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