Political Science (POL)
Culture, Society and the Mind
Global Studies Department
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POL 101—Introduction to Political Science
3 cr.
(Fall/Spring)
The course introduces basic concepts used by political scientists such as power, authority, the state, and analyzes major political ideologies of the contemporary world. General types of political systems and components of political systems are explained and compared. Major policy issues, especially those with global significance, are covered in connection with international politics. Fulfills Category D. (GE 3)
POL 102—U.S. Government - State and Local
3 cr.
(Fall/Spring)
The changing role of state and local governments in America is examined. An emphasis is placed upon what state governments actually do, how they are structured, and the problems they face. Part of the course is devoted to the study of cities and metropolitan areas. Fulfills Category A. (GE 3)
POL 103—U.S. Government - National
3 cr.
(Fall/Spring)
A survey of the U.S. political system at the national level including treatment of the historical background, central concepts and revisions of the constitutional framework, examination of the presidency, congress, federal bureaucracy, judicial structure and process, political parties, interest groups, the media, and current public issues. Fulfills Category A. (GE 4)
POL 104—Introduction to Political Thought
3 cr.
An introductory course in the history of political theory with an emphasis on understanding political ideas and concepts and applying them to perennial issues of political life. Students will read selected original texts by theorists such as Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Rousseau, Adam Smith, Marx, Nietzsche, and Max Weber. Fulfills Category D.
POL 220—Comparative Governments
3 cr.
(Spring)
An introduction to political processes in nations other than the United States. The course uses the comparative method to analyze such topics as political culture, developed vs. developing nations, the organization of governments, political parties, and the operation of interest groups. Fulfills Category D. (GE 3)
POL 221—International Relations
3 cr.
(Fall)
A study of the principles used to describe the political relations among nations. Topics include the growth of nationalism, imperialism, decolonization, the balance of power concept, the role of international organizations such as the U.N. Fulfills Category D. (GE 3)