This class page is for the Research Paper in Professor Glen Biglaiser's Political Science 4700 course (Globalization and Development); however, it has basic research steps and tools that are useful for any research you do. If you find you need more help, use the Ask Us services. Library reference staff members can be reached in person and through phone and email. You may also contact the Subject Librarian for the Political Science Department, Brea Henson.

Your text books are located at the Sycamore Library Services Desk on two hour reserve (you will need your UNT ID card).

Finding Course Reserves

• Use the Course Reserves box below to search by course letter or your instructor's last name.
• Select P for PSCI 4700 under the Browse Course by Letter heading or by the first letter of the instructors last name under the Browse Instructor by Last Name heading.
• Take the call number and your UNT ID card to the Sycamore Library Services Desk to request the book.

A ten to twelve-page double-spaced essay (using a standard font with a 12-point size) is part of this course. The assignment is worth 25 percent of your final grade. The term paper should incorporate a general analysis of the issues involved in the debate, and provide a well-reasoned argument. The papers are due by Tuesday, November 29, and must be submitted on Blackboard via turnitin.com

1. Much controversy surrounds the role of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on developing countries. Some contend that the IMF does more harm than good. The Asian financial crisis in the late 1990s and the early repayment of IMF loans by developing countries in the 2000s to avoid IMF policy prescriptions bolster the position of Fund opponents. Others argue in support of the IMF. Who’s right? In your answer be sure to provide evidence to support whatever position you wish to take on the argument.

2. Globalization is a polarizing issue throughout the world. Some see globalization as the abandonment of environmental, labor, and economic equity issues, while others see it as the solution for economic decay. Given the recent global economic meltdown, is economic globalism a positive trend? In your answer be sure to provide evidence to support your argument.

3. The effects of multinational corporations (MNCs) on developing countries draw considerable debate. Some contend that MNCs provide developing countries with capital, technology, competition, and managerial support that promote economic development. Others argue that MNCs exploit developing countries, causing environmental damage, economic hardship, and labor and human rights abuses. Do MNCs exploit the developing world or are they critical for economic progress? In your answer be sure to provide evidence to support whichever position you wish to take on the argument.

4. For more than 50 years, the U.S. has imposed sanctions against Cuba. Recently, the Obama administration has taken steps to lift sanctions against Cuba but will require actions of the U.S. Congress to completely remove them. Is it time for the Congress and the administration to lift sanctions or should sanctions be maintained? In your answer be sure to consider the history of U.S. policy with other “pariah” nations such as China, Russia (the former U.S.S.R.), Vietnam, and North Korea as well as domestic political concerns (e.g., elections) in both the U.S. and Cuba that may affect the decision on whether to lift or maintain sanctions.

5. Since the 1990s, the U.S. has signed free trade agreements with countries throughout the world. President Obama and many others, including business groups, endorse signing the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), arguing that the TPP will help promote jobs. Many politicians and union organizations, in particular, strongly oppose TPP? Is the TPP a good idea? In your answer be sure to consider both sides of the TPP debate. It is recommended that you also consider the benefits (or detriments) of freer trade, in general, in your response.

6. Choose a topic related to the course, which links with issues of globalization and development. The paper topic MUST receive instructor’s approval.