This course presents an introduction to the basic conceptual and theoretical tools for research and analysis in the field of politics. To understand the core concepts used by political scientists and political theorists, we will be addressing a broad range of issues that cover the nature of politics and the structures of authority and power within political systems. During this course, the students will also explore issues related with the rights and responsibilities in contemporary representative democracies, as well as the diversity of different contemporary political systems and ideas in a regional and global context.