POLS GU4461

History, Culture, Social and Political Dynamics in Latin America (with focus on the 1950s-2023)

Too much, midterm final, a 12-15 page research paper, and these 3 short papers about latin american pol. events attended

Lots of history of LatAm politics as well as the theoretical undergirding of that history -- starts with the Mexican Rev and goes basically up to present day

This class tries to give an overview of latin american politics and the issues surrounding the est. of democracy. It is way too much material for a class of only one semester, and at times the course seems a bit hackney.

I loved this class!! I learned a lot about not only the history and political culture of so many countries but also about current events. Regarding nearly every country there was someone from there or who had experience/understanding about the place and contributed well.

I totally agree, she certainly makes you feel like back to grade school. Granted, she knows the material, nevertheless she tries too hard and is not willing to accept or at least consider different views. She is needlessly intimidating and really does nothing to encourage her students to think creatively -- they are just expected to memorize and repeat what she says like parrots. She gives very little space in choosing the themes for the required paper -- you do what she wants you to do! Do not take this course if you are really interested in political science and in Latin America as it will so turn you off.

Fascinating course that allowed me to have a more comprehensive, complex and broad perspective of Latin America.

Heavy, but extremely engaging. Lots of small (less than 5p) papers, and extensive finals/research papers, but so engaging you <i>want</i> to keep reading. A+++++

I really enjoyed the opportunity to explore Latin America from both a historical and contemporary perspective in this course. It serves as an excellent introductory experience, providing not only historical knowledge, but also the ability to apply political science theories to practical cases. The course strikes a great balance between these aspects, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region's dynamics.

Both classes were amazingly organized and engaging...two of the best political science classes I've taken, either at Barnard or Columbia. Sharp as a tack, Friedman is not the type of professor to skirt your questions with long-winded, rambling responses that don't actually answer your questions. She is fantastic at promoting critical thought, and not just the type that's filler for exam material, the kind that you actually want to think about and discuss. Take these classes if you're at all interested in Latin America, gender and feminisim, and the developing world. These classes changed the course of my studies...take anything you can with her.