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Undergraduate Theses

 

 Antonino, Leonardo David

ABSTRACT: This thesis delves into the Italian legislative system and whether its constitutional framework has an impact on its legislative process. This is done by taking a comparative approach and focusing on the institution of Italy and the case studies of Switzerland, Germany, and France. Scholarly criticism of the Italian system is analyzed. Then, through comparison and contrast, the degree to which the various elements of the Italian system affect the legislative process is determined. The research concluded that certain aspects of the Italian constitutional framework do negatively affect the legislative process. The factors involved are many. On one hand, because of perfect bicameralism, a bill must be approved by both the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies. Thus resulting in the two chambers reviewing and revising the same measure several times, significantly slowing the legislative process. Similarly, the constitutional court's role in the legislative process and judicial review were also found to have a negative impact by adding steps to the legislative process. Furthermore, other factors such as regional autonomy, committees, overload of bills, and rigid constitution were found to have an effect. However, because of the close link between legislative and executive branch, the most determinant factor was found to be the weak nature of the executive. A weak executive, as a result of governments falling and reelections, was found to create instability in the legislative branch through changes in legislative agenda and an overall lack of continuity affecting the functioning of the legislative process. However, whereas most scholars found fault with the electoral system for this, a comparative analysis suggested that other factors were involved. On the one hand, there is the constitutional framework of the executive branch itself. On the other hand, potentially also other non-constitutional factors.

 

 Fiscal Noriega, Alberto

ABSTRACT: This thesis explores the widespread impact of "narco culture" in Mexican society, a cultural phenomenon that has developed as a result of the country's extensive history of involvement in drug trafficking. The term "narco culture" came about as a result of the normalization and glorification of drug trafficking and the violence associated with it in Mexico. Inclusions encompass music, fashion, language, and societal attitudes. The objective of this study is to ascertain the underlying causes and identify the factors that have contributed to the prevalence of the drug trade in Mexico. What sort of incentives might stimulate an individual to partake in the unlawful drug trade? Values, beliefs, and lifestyle associated with narcotics in order to comprehend the issue at its core. The heart of the thesis is an intricate examination of the psyches of individuals involved in the drug trade, focusing on their rationalization of extreme violence. This segment illuminates the psychological, social, and cultural dimensions that mold the attitudes and actions of narcos. It underscores violence's role not only as a byproduct of the drug trade but also as a way to explore violence as a communicative tool within the subculture.