DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

Undergraduate Course Offerings

Fall Semester 2007

Course No.

CRN

Course Title

Instructor

Day/Time

1004

94659

LECTURE – Nations and Nationalities

Weisband

MW 1:25-2:15

1004

94651

RECITATION – Nations and Nationalities

W 2:30-3:20

1004

94652

RECITATION – Nations and Nationalities

R 5:00-5:50

1004

94653

RECITATION – Nations and Nationalities

W 4:00-4:50

1004

94654

RECITATION – Nations and Nationalities

R 11:00-11:50

1004

94655

RECITATION – Nations and Nationalities

R 9:30-10:20

1004

94656

RECITATION – Nations and Nationalities

W 4:30-5:20

1004

94657

RECITATION – Nations and Nationalities

W 4:00-4:50

1004

94658

RECITATION – Nations and Nationalities

R 2:00-2:50

1004

94660

RECITATION – Nations and Nationalities

W 5:00-5:50

1004

94661

RECITATION – Nations and Nationalities

R 12:30-1:20

**MUST SCHEDULE LECTURE AND RECITATION --Introduction to basic concepts in world and comparative cultures with emphasis on the social constructions of collective identity, ethnicity, nationality, nationalism and extreme ethno-nationalism; includes a multidisciplinary exploration of how human and group differences arise and become reinforced in terms of stereotypes and institutionalized forms of racism; examines how cultures help determine the meanings associated with love and hate, death and passion, race and racism, religion and religious intolerance, gender and sexism, class and caste; focuses on tribal/indigenous peoples in terms of lineage and kinship systems and ideological and mythic history; reviews slavery and post-colonial cultures, the holocaust, genocide and terrorism in terms of modernism; discusses the rise of bureaucratic rationality and the administrative state. Readings include fiction as well as a customized text. Restricted to Freshman, Sophomores and Juniors.

1014

94662

US Government and Politics

Walcott

MW 2:30-3:45

This course will survey the institutions and processes of American Government and politics. While focusing on the American system, the course will provide a general introduction to the study of government. The course will cover the constitution and the federal system, public opinion and political behavior, parties, interest groups, the role of the media, Congress, the executive branch (presidency and bureaucracy), the courts, and the major elements of American public policy.

1014H

94663

US Government and Politics

Brians

MWF 1:25-2:15

Introduction to American Government (Honors): This Honors course introduces students to American political processes and institutions. Topics covered include: the Constitutional foundation, the Presidency, Congress, the bureaucracy, the judiciary, elections, political participation, parties, and interest groups. Students study US politics using both historical and contemporary sources and data, and are asked to integrate these sources.

1024

94664

Comparative Government and Politics

Ra

TR 12:30-1:45

1024

94665

Comparative Government and Politics

Ra

TR 2:00-3:15

*Government and politics of selected countries outside the United States; nature of politics and government, types of political systems, linkages of people and governments, and current political issues.

1024

94666

Comparative Government and Politics

Milly

TR 12:30-1:45

This course addresses issues that affect our futures! We will examine concerns shared by political systems of countries throughout the world, among them: How is it possible to develop stable democracies? What choices exist for organizing representation and governments and what difference do these options make? How do states achieve legitimacy with their people? How do governments promote economic and social reforms? Besides learning about political systems in individual countries, we will examine and evaluate explanations for differences among them. Requirements include exams, written assignments, and class attendance and participation.

1024H

94667

Comparative Government and Politics

C. Taylor

TR 11:00-12:15

Honors section - This section is restricted to students in the university honors program and to selected political science majors. The course is designed to introduce you to the notion of comparing political systems in order to understand them. You will be able to learn a great deal about what politics is, why we have governments, how governments are run, what influences them, and what programs they attempt. We will explore a number of analytical concepts and will try to understand these in the light of the experience of a variety of countries. Particular attention will be devoted to Russia, Britain, Japan, Germany, Mexico, and Iran. Assignments will include six books and several lengthy essays.

2014

94668

Introduction to Political Theory

Vazquez-Arroyo

TR 12:30-1:45

This course is an introduction to political theory that consists in the examination of the central themes that historically have preoccupied this tradition of discourse. It involves a critical introduction to the major problems and practices of political theory. Among the specific themes that will be considered are democracy, justice, authority, responsibility, imperialism, and power. The course’s readings will be a combination of traditional canonical figures and other literary writers who have innovatively reflected on these themes.

2024

94669

Research Methods

Shingles

TR 11:00-12:15

PSCI 2024 is a foundation course for much of the work you will be doing in your social science major.  The principle goal of this course is to improve your ability to be a well-informed consumer of research information (i.e. “student empowerment”).  Knowledge is a source of power, and the ability to critically evaluate your own knowledge and the knowledge of others is an even greater source of power.  Students will learn how to: (1) locate, obtain and use research information; (2) assess the merit of the information , and (3) understand and appreciate social science research as a process of discovery and verification.

2024

94670

Research Methods

Faulkner

TR 8:00-9:15

*Introduction to research in political science; formulation of theory, operationalization and measurement, gathering, analysis and interpretation of data. Pre: 1014, 1024. (3H,3C) I,II,III,IV.

2024

94671

Research Methods

Marcoux

MW 10:10-11:00 F 10:10-11:00 (Lab)

*Introduction to research in political science; formulation of theory, operationalization and measurement, gathering, analysis and interpretation of data. Pre: 1014, 1024. (3H,3C) I,II,III,IV.

2054

94672

Introduction to World Politics

Nelson

MW 4:00-4:50 W 12:20-1:10

2054

94673

Introduction to World Politics

MW 4:00-4:50 M 12:20-1:10

2054

94674

Introduction to World Politics

MW 4:00-4:50 F 12:20-1:10

2054

94675

Introduction to World Politics

MW 4:00-4:50 W 12:20-1:10

2054

94676

Introduction to World Politics

MW 4:00-4:50 M 12:20-1:10

2054

94677

Introduction to World Politics

MW 4:00-4:50 F 12:20-1:10

2054

94678

Introduction to World Politics

MW 4:00-4:50 W 2:30-3:20

2054

94679

Introduction to World Politics

MW 4:00-4:50 W 1:25-2:15

2054

94680

Introduction to World Politics

MW 4:00-4:50 M 12:20-1:10

2054

94681

Introduction to World Politics

MW 4:00-4:50 M 2:30-3:20

2054

94682

Introduction to World Politics

MW 4:00-4:50 F 12:20-1:10

2054

94683

Introduction to World Politics

MW 4:00-4:50 W 12:20-1:10

**DO NOT TAKE THIS COURSE IF YOU HAVE TAKEN 2055 (WORLD POLITICS & ECONOMY) AS IT WILL RESULT IN COURSE DUPLICATION** This core curricular course (Areas 3 and 7) examines the foundational terms, concepts, ideas, ideals, challenges, and opportunities of world politics in the modern epoch (sixteenth century to the present). As an introductory-level course, students without any background in world politics will be introduced to the history, theory, and structure of the international state system -- how it is managed, the dynamics of international conflict and cooperation, and the increasingly powerful role of international organizations in world-political affairs. Students are expected to attend two lectures per week, as well as one recitation section wherein discussion of contemporary world affairs will be especially encouraged. Two in-class midterm examinations, a final examination, weekly quizzes, and participation in recitation sections constitute the main instruments of evaluations in the course. The course has no prerequisites. It is complemented by PSCI/IS/GEOG 2064 in the spring semester, a course that concentrates on economic determinants of global politics.

2964

94684

Field Study

Staff

Arranged

3015

94685

Political Theory

Koch

MWF 9:05-9:55

3015

94686

Political Theory

Koch

MWF 11:15-12:05

The course provides an overview of nearly 2000 years of Western political thinking; it covers the period from the Ancient Greeks to early modern times. In this course, we investigate many different concepts, which still determine contemporary political language, with regard to their origins and transformations in political practice. What does the concept of "democracy" mean to the ancient Greeks? What determines their understanding of a well-organized commonwealth? Who is (and who not) involved in the political process? How do the Greek ideas influence later political thinking? What are the main concerns in the medieval period, how do they differ from ancient concepts, and what new meanings do they acquire during the early modern period? What is the impact of the Reformation on moral and political - thought? We address these issues by reading and discussing excerpts from the original texts (in English translation). For this purpose, the course is designed to unfold as a combination of lectures and in-class discussions of the assigned texts.

3016

94688

Political Theory

Staff

TR 3:30-4:45

*Analysis of the fundamental ideas in the history of political theory from the late seventeenth century to the present.

3224

96215

Public Opinion

Brians

MWF 11:15-12:05

This course examines the sources and distribution of public opinion, measurement of public opinion -- especially through polling -- relationships between public opinion and public policy, and institutions linking public opinion to government decisions. Pre: 1014 or 1024. (3H,3C) I.

3244

94690

Political Communication

Denton

TR 11:00-12:15

This course focuses on the role and functions of communication in political campaigns. Course objectives include: to identify and understand the variables of campaign communication and activities; to identify and understand the phases of political campaigns; to understand and appreciate the role of media in campaigns; and to understand the role, function and elements of political campaign management. Broad topic areas include: Media and political campaigns, Campaign management, Campaign strategies, Political consultants, Political Advertising, Public opinion and campaigns. The course lectures and materials view campaigns from theoretical, historical, and pragmatic perspectives.

3255

94691

Politics of Race, Ethnicity & Gender

Shingles

TR 8:00-9:15

This is the first of two courses on the politics of race, ethnicity and gender.  PSCI 3255 focuses on race and ethnicity.  PSCI 3256 addresses the politics of gender (for Americans in general and racial/ethnic minorities in particular). These two courses are sequenced to allow for the comparative study of political minorities (groups that are under-represented in positions of power in major institutions, including government).  The questions that we will address this semester are: 1. What is the status of African-Americans today, one-half century after Brown v. Board?  2. Of what significance is politics and public policy for explaining their current condition? 3. What is the significance of this analysis for race relations more generally?

3334

94693

Judicial Process

Hult

TR 9:30-10:45

This course will examine the U.S. judiciary, focusing on both federal and state courts.  Its emphasis will be on courts as political institutions that confront many of the same challenges and constraints as executives and legislatures but that have a somewhat different set of strengths and weaknesses.  Given such an understanding of the judiciary, two questions become relevant and will be addressed throughout the class: what are appropriate tasks for courts in the U.S. political system, and how capable are the courts at performing those tasks?  Course requirements will include three exams and two 7-10 page analytical essays. Pre: PSCI 1014 or equivalent.

3344

96276

Global Environmental Issues

Rich

TR 3:30-4:45

We will examine major global environmental problems such as global warming, atmospheric ozone depletion, acid rain, tropical deforestation, toxic waste, and persistent organic compounds, with an emphasis on their social, economic, political, ethical, and legal origins, implications, and solutions.  While we will cover the scientific nature of these problems, special emphasis will be placed on the public policy issues they raise.   Pre: completion of Area 4 of the University Core.

3354

96277

Constitutional Law- Structures & Rels

Faulkner

TR 12:30-1:45

***DO NOT TAKE THIS COURSE IF YOU HAVE TAKEN 3345 (CONSTITUTIONAL LAW) AS IT WILL RESULT IN COURSE DUPLICATION*** *Powers and authority of President, Congress and Courts; division of power between states and federal government. Pre: 1014

3364

96302

Constitutional Law-Civil & Pol Rights

Moore

TR 11:00-12:15

***DO NOT TAKE THIS COURSE IF YOU HAVE TAKEN 3346 (CONSTITUTIONAL LAW) AS IT WILL RESULT IN COURSE DUPLICATION*** The subject matter of this course is constitutional rights. Through analysis of Supreme Court decisions and other materials, the class will examine the historical development and competing conceptions of a range of rights -- such as rights of free speech, press, and religion; requirements of due process; guarantees of equal protection; and rights of privacy. Active participation in class will be required. Other requirements will include 2-3 quizzes, two midterm examinations, and a final examination or paper. The prerequisites are PSCI 1014 and a high level of commitment.

3414

94695

Public Administration

Faulkner

TR 5:00-6:15

**DO NOT TAKE THIS COURSE IF YOU HAVE TAKEN 3415 (PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION) AS IT WILL RESULT IN COURSE DUPLICATION** This course introduces public administration as a policy process, as bureaucratic structure, and as a field of study. The course also provides a broad overview of public sector complexities and emphasizes public administration as it exists in modern American government. During the semester, we will review topics generally associated with the study and practice of public administration such as public management, leadership, personnel, public finance, and ethics. Through class discussion, lecture, reading, exams, and assignments, students will become familiar with the primary issues and challenges facing public administrators today.

3515

94696

European Political Systems

Schuetz

MW 2:30-3:45

*The government and politics of selected European states and of the European Union. 3515: normally includes the United Kingdom. Pre: 1024

3534

96858

African Government & Politics

Hoon

MWF 11:15-12:05

*Survey of major concepts and themes in the study of African politics and development; analyses of the state, political institutions, social forces, democratization, sustainable development, issues of contemporary African politics. Pre: 1024

3574

96216

Government & Politics of Japan

Milly

TR 9:30-10:45

How should we make "sense of" Japanese politics? This course explores the Japanese political system as a vibrant and changing system. We will engage in sophisticated analysis of the major features of the Japanese political system and policies. We consider Japanese political institutions and their origins, patterns of popular political participation, policymaking processes, and politics over Japan’s relationship to the world community. A combination of lectures, structured in-class discussion, and regular written assignments and a set of essays will pull you into the world of Japanese politics. Students should only sign up if they are ready to consistently prepare and participate in class. You MUST have taken PSCI 1024 to take this course.

3615

94698

International Relations

Zanotti

TR 3:30-4:45

This course introduces students to main theoretical approaches and debates in the academic field of international relations from the onset of the discipline to most recent post-Cold War approaches. Its goal is to familiarize students with traditional and critical theories of IR, to stimulate comparison among different orientations and to foster debate about their implications for the construction of worldviews and praxis.

3615

96217

International Relations

Sjoberg

MW 4:00-5:15

Structure and development of the modern international system; theories of international politics; international law; international organizations. This course introduces students to main theoretical approaches and debates in the academic field of international relations with the goal of providing students with lenses through which they can interpret global politics and fostering debate about their implications for the theory and practice of global politics. Pre: 1024. (3H,3C) 3615: I; 3616: II.

3615

96218

International Relations

Marcoux

MWF 12:20-1:10

*Structure and development of the modern international system; theories of international politics; international law; international organizations. Pre: 1024

3615

96857

International Relations

Hoon

MWF 9:05-9:55

*Structure and development of the modern international system; theories of international politics; international law; international organizations. Pre: 1024

3616

96275

International Relations

Stivachtis

TR 9:30-10:45

*Structure and development of the modern international system; theories of international politics; international law; international organizations. Pre: 1024

3734

94699

National Security

Zanotti

T R 12:30-1:45

The goal of this course is to explore current US national security policies in the context of a broader debate on security. After a brief introduction to theoretical debates, this course will address selected issues pertaining to US security strategies. We will focus on democracy promotion as well as the war on terror and its repercussions on civil and human rights, the construction of identities, and international risk. The course relies on theoretical readings, analysis of policy documents, case studies, media reports, and the discussion of a few movies.

4324

96301

Constitutional Law

Moore

T R 2:00-3:15

The Senior Seminar in Constitutional Law will concentrate in the fall of 2007 on problems of constitutional continuity and change. Topics will include the extent to which the U.S. Constitution reaffirmed antecedent norms and/or brought about change, whether the Constitution has presupposed that its norms would remain constant and/or change across time, limits and possibilities associated with formally amending the constitutional text, the character of particular amendments (such as the Bill of Rights and the Fourteenth Amendment), informal change through judicial interpretation and otherwise, institutional and popular roles in maintaining continuity and bringing about change, issues of contemporary politics raising problems of constitutional continuity and change, and other selected topics of interest to students. Required readings will include selections from The Federalist Papers, accounts of debates relating to the promulgation and ratification of the Bill of Rights and subsequent amendments, judicial decisions and other interpretive precedents, scholarly writings, and the like. Active participation in class will be required, and students will be required to keep a reading journal and to make at least one class presentation. There will also be a midterm and a final exam or paper. The formal prerequisite is at least one of 3354 or 3364. Qualified juniors as well as seniors are welcome to take the class.

4614

94700

Senior Seminar: International Relations

Sjoberg

W 1:00-3:50

This is a seminar on the theory and practice of global security. It has three main goals. First, it provides an overview of major theories, concepts, methods, and debates in security studies. It focuses in particular on the causes of war and the complexities of deterrence, compellence, engagement, security cooperation, and human security. This gives students an analytical framework for understanding and interrogating national and international security issues. Second, the course provides an overview of important security events of the past century, including the origins of World War I, the origins of World War II, and the Cold War as well as the security of the lives that happened outside of those frameworks. This gives students an essential historical perspective on security problems. Third, it provides an introduction to the security challenges of the post-Cold War era and the 21st century, from traditional and critical perspectives. Must have senior standing and any two of the prerequisites. Pre: 3615, 3616, 3625, 3626, 3734. (3H,3C)

4754

94701

Internship Program

Rich

Arranged

4964

94702

Field Study

Staff

Arranged

4974

94703

Independent Study

Staff

Arranged

4974

94704

Independent Study

Staff

Arranged

4994

94705

Undergraduate Research

Staff

Arranged

* Description taken from the Undergraduate Catalogue.