Why are some countries rich while others are mired in poverty? Why do citizens have a voice in some countries but are silenced in others? Why are some countries deeply divided along ethnic or religious lines while others have a population that identifies with the nation? Comparative politics develops answers to these questions (and many others) by comparing countries around the world. Learn about governing institutions, electoral behavior, ideologies, public policy, political economy, and social movements w hile honing your critical thinking skills.