Introduction to Comparative Politics This course offers an introduction to the comparative study of political systems and to the logic of comparative inquiry. How are different political systems created and organized? How and why do they change? Why are some democratic and others authoritarian? Why are some rich and others poor? Other topics covered in this course include nationalism and political ideologies, forms of representation, the relationship between state institutions and civil society, and globalization. The goal in this course is to use comparative methods to analyze questions of state institutions -- how they arise, change, and generate different economic, social, and political outcomes.

Are the Gods Dead? Secularization Theory Worldwide This course is structured around one of our most distinguished but contested social science theories: secularization, or the thesis that modernization weakens religion. In this course, we will read classic and contemporary versions of the secularization thesis from various social science disciplines, evaluate whether secularization has occurred in a number of cases around the world, and consider whether this theory deserves to still hold a central place in social science.

Qualitative Methods in Political Science This seminar offers a broad introduction to qualitative methodology with a focus on comparative methods for the analysis of a relatively small number of cases (small-n). This course will enable students to create and critique qualitative research designs in political science. The course focuses on recent methodological writings and includes several substantive examples from various subfields. Topics covered include causal inference, case studies, cross-case comparison, typological theory, case selection, process tracing, counterfactual analysis, and set theory. We will also discuss approaches to multi-method research and the use of mixed methods in political science.

Politics of India This course provides students with an introduction to the history and politics of India, one of the most diverse, populous (home to more than one-seventh of the world’s population), and important developing countries in the modern world. This course proceeds chronologically, beginning with ancient Indian (South Asian) civilization, the Mughal Empire of the medieval period, the British colonial experience, Independence, Partition, and contemporary politics, including rising development, as well as the growth of Hindu nationalism.

Comparative Politics of Religion This course provides students with an introduction to the study of religion in  political science. The course is divided into four sections. The first section provides a  theoretical background to religion and its study in political science. The second section  discusses long-standing debates over the concept of ‘secularization.’ The third section  examines the study of religion and democracy, with a special focus on the non-western case  of India. The final section explores the effect of religion on political violence, with empirical  examples from around the world. The last class explores the future of the study of religion in  political science.

Ethnic Conflict Experts regard ethnic divides as causing everything from nationalist violence to democratic breakdown to economic stagnation. In this course we will engage the most prominent recent and classic research into the relationship between ethnicity, conflict, and peace. Readings will include leading works in a wide variety of theoretical and empirical traditions, including comparative political science, rational choice, comparative history, sociology, and anthropology. Empirical material includes cases from many parts of the world.

Ajay Verghese

Reviews and ratings for Ajay Verghese at Middlebury College.Ajay Verghese teaches Intro to Comparative Politics, Secularization Theory, QualitativeMethods in Poli Sci and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Ajay Verghese good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

Prof Verghese is a wonderful professor - he clearly knows the material inside and out and made the space feel incredibly welcoming. All opinions are welcome and no opinion is wrong in this course, which allows for fruitful discussions.

I found this class to be very engaging and interesting. It was very discussion heavy which is what made it so enjoyable. The readings were fair and interesting. I also enjoyed that the authors were all relevant and influential. Definitely recommend. 

Qualitative Methods in Political Science with Professor Verghese could be really interesting and useful to a student hoping to conduct their own research. The final project wher you outlined your own potential research was also interesting. Make sure to keep up with your discussion posts and readings, other than that it is chill and easy.