Courses in Political Science
R POS 100 Introduction to Political Science (3)
This course introduces students to political science and its major fields: American politics, comparative politics, international relations and political theory. The course seeks to expose students to the study of social science, to introduce students to college learning.
R POS 101 American Politics (3)
Introduction to the study of politics, focusing on American national government. Includes some discussion of theoretical questions (such as authority, representation, and consent) and some illustrative examples from the area of comparative and international politics. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 101W American Politics (4)
R POS 101W is the oral discourse and writing intensive version of R POS 101 in which students will attend a weekly discussion section as well as weekly lectures. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 102 Comparative and International Politics (3)
The characteristics and development of statehood and power; conditions of stability; constitutions and the comparative political processes; the international order and the nation-state system. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 102X Comparative and International Politics (4)
R POS 102X is the information literacy version of R POS 102 in which students will attend a weekly discussion section as well as weekly lectures. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 103 Political Theory (3)
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. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 103Y Political Theory (4)
R POS 103Y is the oral discourse version of R POS 103 in which students will attend a weekly discussion section in addition to weekly regular classes. Only one version of R POS 103 may be taken for credit.
R POS 140 (= R PAD 140; formerly R PUB 140) Introduction to Public Policy (3)
Introduction to theories of how democracies make public policy. Describes the roles of government institutions, the media, and interest groups in the policy process. Reviews current theories of how problems are identified and how policies are formulated, enacted, and implemented to address public problems. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 203 Political Thought (3)
Original works in the history of Western political thought, emphasizing the relevance of this material for understanding political concepts, reflecting on political problems, and critically analyzing contemporary political institutions and ideas. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101 or R POS 102 or R POS 103 or permission of department.
R POS 204/204Y/204Z Selected Problems in Political Science (1-3)
Selected problems pertaining to political science and/or public policy. May be repeated for credit if content varies. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101 or R POS 102 or R POS 103 or permission of department.
R POS 206 Politics in Film (3)
This course examines representations of selected aspects of politics in film. The class will use movies as primary texts to analyze campaigns and elections, political parties, war in its multiple expressions, the military, immigration, censorship, the criminal justice system, and the participation of minorities in the political process, among others. Although this will not be the primary focus of the course, the course will also explore the implications of media representations of politics for democracy and democratic participation.
T POS 219 American Political Development (3)
A study of the historical shaping of American politics. Encompassing institutions, public policies, political culture, and political economy, American Political Development uncovers patterns of political stability and change. It explores critical episodes in American political history in a theoretically-informed fashion. Only one of R POS 319 and T POS 219 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101. Open to Honors College students only.
T POS 220 Great Transformations in American Politics (3)
In the last four decades, American politics and policy have undergone a series of profound transformations that have altered the relationship between the government, the market, and the citizen. This course will consider three of these: the shift towards a pro-market economic policy; the rise of mass incarceration; and the changing welfare state. In addition to exploring these policy shifts, we will also examine the ideas that have underpinned them: liberalism, neoliberalism, and conservatism. Moreover, while many of the great transformations in American politics and policy have occurred at the federal level, there is much variation among the states and the cities. Therefore, we will also peer beneath the national level to see how these shifts have played out differently in different places. As such, our study at the subnational level will focus on two contradictory tendencies: the right-wing imposition of austerity on the states and progressive efforts to raise the minimum wage at the state and local levels. We will also consider whether the Trump presidency will herald another "great transformation." Open to Honors College students only.
T POS 248 Identities, Boundaries, and Mobilization (3)
This course explores the political nature of identities, and particularly the way collective identities are shaped, maintained, and deployed. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, we will examine key dimensions of identity, modes, and strategies of inclusion and exclusion, forms of “identity politics,” and questions of intersectionality (the overlapping of identity categories, as for race and gender). Course materials will span everything from theoretical approaches to identity mobilization to nationalism and secessionism, to the politics of gender and ethnicity, and will combine conceptual works, case studies, and literature. Assignments will include a series of short reaction papers, a collaborative final project, and class presentations. Only one of T POS 248 and R POS 448Z may be taken for credit. Open to Honors College students only.
R POS 250 Research and Method in Political Science (3)
This course is designed to equip students with the tools for doing original research in political science and providing them with an opportunity to do such research. Only one of R POS 250 and T POS 250 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101 or R POS 102 or R POS 103 or permission of department.
T POS 250 Research and Method in Political Science (3)
This honors course is designed to equip students with the tools for doing original research in political science and providing them with an opportunity to do such research. T POS 250 is the Honors College version of R POS 250; only one may be taken for credit. Open to Honors College students only.
T POS 255 (= T LCS 255) Race and the American Empire (3)
This course will explore the relationship between racism and the formation of the American empire from approximately 1776 through the end of the Progressive Era. By the early 20th century the United States emerged as a world power after a relentless process of continental and overseas territorial expansion. The young nation employed an ideology of racial superiority and predestination to justify its expropriation of the land and natural resources of other peoples and nations, to capture a continuous supply of labor, and to acquire new export. Theories of Manifest Destiny, white man's burden, social Darwinism, and religious doctrines were some of the narratives central to an ideology of racial supremacy in service of empire. Only one version may be taken for credit. Open to Honors College students only.
T POS 260 Political Violence: Honors Course (3)
This course is designed to introduce students to the study of violent political conflict. We will examine the how, why, and when of violent political conflict both domestic and international. What are the key empirical and normative questions raised by violent political conflict and what answers to these questions does the literature offer? What other strategies, like nonviolence and negotiation are available to actors instead of political violence? In this course, in addition to studying the theories that have been developed to explain the politics and history of violent political conflict, students will have an opportunity to participate in simulation exercises designed to sharpen their analytic skills in the subject area. T POS 260 is the Honors College version of R POS 360. Only one version may be taken for credit. Open to Honors College students only.
T POS 261Y Comparative Ethnicity (3)
The composition and problems of various ethnic and religious minorities: their origins, characteristics, political mobilization, and degree of integration into the social and political systems of the new post-colonial nations of Asia, Africa, and Latin America examined against a background of European, American, and Russian experience. T POS 261 is the Honors College version of R POS 361; only one may be taken for credit. Open to Honors College students only.
R POS 266 International Political Economic Science (3)
The course will address the historical significance of struggles for the control of world petroleum resources. The topics to be covered include: (1) the competition for power in the Middle East, and the competition among major powers for domination of world oil supplies; (2) Financial crises related to oil industry, in particular the collapse of the gold standard in 1974 and the decline of the dollar in 2008; (3) The politics of environmental regulation and alternative fuels with reference to tropospheric (ground level) pollution and also the Greenhouse Effect; (4) alternative fuels and their strategic context e.g. Germany's synthetic fuels program in the 1930s; (5) the role of speculation in energy pricing; (6) resource depletion theory.
T POS 266 International Political Economic Science (3)
T POS 266 is the Honors College version of R POS 266; only one may be taken for credit. Open to Honors College students only.
T POS 272 (= T PAD 272 & T SPH 272) Health and Human Rights: an Interdisciplinary Approach (3)
This course takes an interdisciplinary approach to health and human rights and the contemporary challenges and solutions associated with them. The course will be taught with guest lectures from experts in public health, philosophy, social welfare, law, gender studies, public administration the United Nations, among others. Through lectures, discussion and case studies, students will develop a broad theoretical understanding of health as a human right, become familiar with legal and policy frameworks to support public health, and acquire skills in the application of these concepts and the implementation and evaluation of solutions to our modern health challenges. T PAD/T POS/T SPH 272 is the Honors College version of R PAD/R POS/H HPM 486. Only one version may be taken for credit. Open to Honors College students only.
R POS 295/295Z (= A HIS 295/295Z) The Supreme Court and American Constitutional History (3)
This course treats the history of the Constitution through an examination of many of the major arguments made about it before the Supreme Court of the United States. This course allows us to understand the critical role counsel has made in shaping arguments before the Court, the way in which litigants representing competing social demands have pushed the envelope of American constitutionalism, and the means by which the Courts’ agenda (and American constitutional history) has changed in response to those arguments and the underlying social circumstances that have informed them during the previous two centuries. Only one version may be taken for credit. May not be offered in 2016-2017.
T POS 295 (= T HIS 295) The Supreme Court and American Constitutional History (3)
T POS 295 is the Honors College version of R POS 295. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 300 Honors Tutorial in Political Science (1)
A one credit honors tutorial accompanying a 300 level political science course. May be repeated for credit. Open only to students in the Political Science Honors Program. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
R POS 301 History of Political Theory I (3)
An examination of classical texts in political theory from ancient Greece to the 15th century.
R POS 302 History of Political Theory II (3)
An examination of classical text in modern political thought from the Renaissance to the 19th century.
R POS 303 (= R PAD 304) Public Policy in Theory and Practice (3)
Examines the theoretical foundations of public policy research, of alternative models of public policy formation, their methodologies, and the relationship between the theory and practice of the policy sciences. Inquiries into the practice of public policy; focuses on actual policies in a substantive area. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101 or R POS/R PAD 140, or junior or senior standing.
R POS 306 Contemporary Democratic Theory (3)
An historical and analytical examination of modern conceptions of democracy. The course will focus on the meaning of democracy, the justifications for democratic self-governments and the variety of models that have been offered as the realization of a democratic society and their forms of democratic legitimization.
R POS 307 American Political Theory (3)
The development of political thought and action in the American experience.
R POS 308 Theorists and Theorizing (3)
This course will focus on the work of a single political theorist. Students will become acquainted with the major writings of one theorist who has been chosen both for the historical and contemporary significance of his/her thought and for the purpose of learning the value of in-depth study of works that have such a significance. Along with studying the work of a major theorist, students may examine the different interpretations of that work and the conflicts and problems that arise in the practice of interpretation. May be repeated for credit if content varies.
R POS 309 (= A GLO 303) Theoretical Perspectives on Globalization (3)
This course takes up the ambitious task of theorizing globalization, one of the defining conceptual rubrics of our current historical moment. Under investigation, then, is not only globalization - its origins, dynamics, characteristics, and consequences - but also theory. What role can intellectual and critical inquiry play in the world today? What is the relationship between generalization and particularity, that is to say between conceptual models that engage in broad forms of periodization, systemic analysis, or abstraction, versus those analytical models that focus on the particular, the local, the historically or geographically specific? What is the relationship between theory and critique? What are the intellectual traditions that inform contemporary thought? And how might a reflective investigation of theory help us to better understand and respond to the globalizing processes and structures that condition the world in which we live? Engaging these questions, the course will review a variety of influential theoretical perspectives that analyze the origins, dynamics, and consequences of globalizing forces. Focusing on key areas of contention and commonality, the course aims to provide students with a complex understanding of the assumptions, contribution, and limitations of current theoretical perspectives on globalization. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 310 Contemporary Political Philosophy (3)
Analysis of selected perspectives in the political and social thought of the 19th and 20th centuries.
R POS 313 Feminist Social and Political Thought (3)
The major documents of American, English, and Continental feminist thought. Emphasizes chronological development and continuity and change in feminist theory. Particular attention to the directions feminism has taken since the 1960s.
R POS 314 Problems of Political Inquiry (3)
Introduction to the discipline of political science and contemporary approaches to the study of politics.
R POS 316 (= R PAD 316; formerly R PUB 316) Methodological Tools for Public Policy (3)
Introduction to research design, statistics, and computer usage in public policy with an emphasis on the interpretation of results. Students examine experimental, quasi-experimental, and non-experimental research designs, summarize and present univariate distributions, perform bivariate and multivariate analyses including simple cross-tabulations and multiple regression analysis, and learn to use a computer to perform statistical and data management operations. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 317 Comparative Criminal Procedure (3)
"Due process" is a core element of democracy and the rule of law. Criminal procedure encompasses all the legal actors, institutions, and steps between them that make due process possible in the criminal justice system — from police to prison, initial detention to final custody. In an effort to identify best practices in criminal procedure and understand the causes and consequences of these practices, this course examines the criminal process across different countries and criminal procedure reform over time within individual countries.
R POS 319 American Political Development (3)
A study of the historical shaping of American politics. Encompassing institutions, public policies, political culture, and political economy, American Political Development uncovers patterns of political stability and change. It explores critical episodes in American political history in a theoretically-informed fashion. Only one of R POS 319 and T POS 219 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101.
R POS 320 American Federalism (3)
This course focuses on the theoretical, constitutional, and political dimensions of American federalism, including the tensions between the planes of government, interstate relations, and the problem-solving capabilities of the federal system. Particular emphasis is placed upon the formal powers of each plane of government and the limitations upon these powers. The reasons for and the political significance of the increasing use of preemption powers by the Congress will be examined.
R POS 321 (= R PAD 321; formerly RPUB 321) State and Local Government (3)
Course focus is on intergovernmental relations; the interdependent roles of governors, legislatures, and courts in policymaking and implementation; the organization, functions, and jurisdiction of local governments; interaction of political parties and interest groups with formal institutions and processes; and problems in selected functional areas. Emphasis will be placed upon socio-economic trends leading to change in state and local governments, consequent issues raised, and proposals made in response to such issues. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101.
R POS 322 (= R PAD 322; formerly R PUB 322) Government & Politics of New York City (3)
Introduction to New York City's major political and governmental institutions, with an emphasis on the recurring efforts to provide for borough and community input into the city's policy making and implementation processes and to increase inter- and intra-party competition. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 323 Urban Government (3)
Examines governmental patterns in major urban areas of the United States. Considers the nature of a municipal corporation, forms of government, state-local relations, and urban politics.
R POS 324 Latino Politics in the United States (3)
This course reviews Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Cuban participation, perspectives and issues on American politics. Each Latino sub-group will be analyzed and comparisons will be made between Latino sub-groups and between Latinos and other groups. The following questions will be examined: What is the context of Latino politics? What characterizes Latino political behavior? What is the place of Latinos in the U.S. political system? What are the political perspectives and values? What issues form the basis of their political mobilization and incorporation? What are their political prospects? We will be concerned with relevant historical, interpretive, and theoretical issues raised by the Latino political experience, with an emphasis on electoral representation, issues of gender, race, and ethnicity, education, affirmative action, and radical politics. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 325 (= R PAD 325; formerly R PUB 325) The Government and Politics of New York State (3)
Introduction to the major political governmental institutions in New York. Examines the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government; the nature of parties and election, and of selected policy questions. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R POS 321.
R POS 326 Introduction to Public Law (3)
What is law and why is it such a significant part of modern-day society and culture in the United States? How does the legal system operate through its various actors — judges, lawyers, and juries — to enable individuals to resolve disputes without resorting to violence? How does the law operate to structure and control the state? From where does legal power arise and what are its limits? How does the law both constrain and empower subordinated individuals and groups in American politics and society? These questions and others are the subject of this course, providing students with a general overview of the legal system of the U.S. The course is intended primarily for students who have little/no prior background in law. Some students will take the course as a gateway to further study about law, others will use it to broaden their understanding of the legal system as one of the most significant and powerful institutions in the modern state.
R POS 327 Comparative Judicial Politics (3)
This course is about judicial politics in different countries, i.e., different justice systems. Judicial politics is the study of how political dynamics shape courts (including justice reforms and actual court decisions) and how courts, in turn, shape politics (including the social impact of institutional rules and decisions). The course introduces the two main systems of law in the world and the primary theoretical approaches to understanding judicial politics, proceeding to analyze how institutions and actors in different systems of law interact with various patterns of democracy and democratization.
R POS 328 (= R PAD 328; formerly R PUB 328) Law and Policy (3)
Examination of the role of the of the courts in the public policy process and in substantive policy fields; integrates the literature of law and policy and applies it to such areas as mental health care, corrections, human resources, education, and housing policy. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 329/329Z (= R PAD 329/329Z) Administrative Leadership (3)
This class examines leadership, management and human behavior within and among complex organizations, with special emphasis on the distribution and use of power by organizational actors. The course will also examine how leaders can position their organizations to gain the greatest results and most significant impact on and for organizational stakeholders. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 330 Law, Courts, and Politics (3)
The structure and function of the courts in the American political system with special attention to staffing, the decision-making process, judicial policy making, and checks upon judicial power. Students who have taken R POS 230H may not take R POS 330 for credit.
R POS 331 American Legislatures (3)
Examination of the legislative function in the American political system. Inquiry into the sources of legislative power, the institutions involved in formulating legislation, and the people who participate in the legislative process. This course is recommended for students contemplating a legislative internship.
R POS 332 The Presidency (3)
The principal institutions, functions, and problems of the executive branch of government. Emphasizes the President as political leader, head of state, and administrator, as well as on his relations with Congress.
R POS 333 (= A WSS 333) Women and the Law (3)
This course surveys the relationship between women and the law, looking at the way that women have been defined as legal subjects over time and through intersections of gender, sexual orientation, race, and class. The course focuses on the United States, but may also include discussion of women's status in international law and cross-national comparisons of legal policies. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101 and junior or senior standing, or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2018-2019.
R POS 334 American Political Parties and Groups (3)
Examination of the theory, organizational forms, and dynamics of political group formation and activity, with special attention given to the political party system, interest groups, political leadership and electoral behavior.
R POS 335 The American Supreme Court (3)
The role of the Supreme Court in American political life. Topics include: access to the court; the nature of Supreme Court decision making; the selection of Supreme Court justices; the relationship between the Supreme Court and the executive and legislative branches of government; and the major substantive issues with which the Supreme Court has been concerned.
R POS 336 Civil Liberties (3)
The ways in which the courts have interpreted the Constitution with respect to individual freedoms. Examines a range of source materials to assess the role of the judiciary in arbitrating between the individual and the state, and its implications in American political life
R POS 337 Campaigns and Elections in U.S. (3)
This course will examine how people run for office in the United States. We will examine elections for the presidency, Congress, etc. Topics will include the decision to run prenomination and general election campaigns; the role of parties; interest groups; media; campaign finance; advertising and other campaign techniques. The assignments also include historical comparisons to consider what makes some elections more significant than others. We need to ask what elections really decide besides who holds office. Ultimately, the basic issue is whether the structure and content of U.S. elections fosters or distorts democratic representation.
R POS 340 (= R PAD 340; formerly R PUB 340) Introduction to Policy Analysis (3)
Policy analysis involves advising policy makers about political, technical, and implementation feasibility of their options. This course will introduce students to different roles played by analysts, techniques of analysis, and to the range of generic policy implements. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R PAD/R POS 140, R PAD/R POS 316, A ECO 110. May substitute R PAD 316 with an alternate introductory statistics course. May waive R PAD 140 with permission of the instructor.
R POS 341 (= R PAD 341 & C EHC 341; formerly R PUB 341) Washington in Perspective (3)
This course uses different policy areas to examine the institutional structures, key non-state actors, and domestic and international context of American government. Course faculty will take advantage of the course location in the nation's capital and include field trips and guest speakers. Prerequisite(s): one of C EHC 101 or R PAD 140 or R POS 101 or R POS 102; one 300 level course in C EHC, R PAD or R POS; junior or senior standing; or permission of the Department.
R POS 342 (= R PAD 342 & C EHC 342) Washington Internship (9)
This is the internship component of the spring Washington Semester program. Admission by application. Enrollment limited. Preference to R POS Honors students. For information and applications, see Department of Political Science office or website. Deadlines and interviews in the early fall. Does not count toward a Public Policy and Management major or minor. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101, one 300 level course in American government, junior class standing. Corequisite(s): R POS 341 and R POS 495 or R PAD 341 and R PAD 490. S/U graded.
R POS 343 (= R PAD 343 & C EHC 343) Homeland Security (3)
This undergraduate survey course introduces students to the U.S. government response to the attacks of September 11, 2001, specifically, the second largest reorganization of the executive branch that produced the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Topics examined include border and transportation security, customs, immigration policy and enforcement; preparedness and capabilities building, response and resilience; critical infrastructure protection; threat and vulnerability assessment and risk management; cybersecurity; counter-terrorism. Although the course is primarily focused on U.S. Federal government activities, it will also examine state and local dimensions of homeland security as well as U.S. government interactions with other countries in the homeland security domain. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): C EHC/R PAD 101 or permission of instructor.
R POS 344 Predicting the Supreme Court (3)
How will the U.S. Supreme Court decide upcoming cases? This course introduces students to three core topics: (1) the main legal and social science approaches to understanding how and why Supreme Court justices decide cases the way they do; (2) major data sets on these Supreme Court decisions; and (3) statistical approaches to understanding patterns and relationships in these data. An emphasis is also placed on explaining these patterns and relationships, not just identifying them. With these ideas, real data, and methods in place, the course culminates in a fun, friendly competition to see who can use the data and methods to best predict and explain the decisions of the current Supreme Court term just as the Court is itself announcing those decisions in the spring.
R POS 346 (= A WSS 346) Law, Sexual Orientation, and Gender Identity (3)
This course will examine how law, institutions, and society interact to define the contested boundaries of legal rights based on the issues of sexual orientation and gender identity. We will be looking at scholarship in the area of law and sexuality as well as relevant court cases at the state and federal levels. These will raise some big questions: Do courts even matter in creating social change for LGBT people? Why have transgender people been less successful in achieving rights reform? How do beliefs on religion and family play a role in defining rights? As the country looks ahead to greater state legislative activity and judicial action, this area becomes increasingly salient to our national politics every day. Only one version may be taken for credit. May not be offered in 2018-2019.
R POS 347 Comparative Latin American Migration: The United States and Europe (3)
This course examines and compares the migration experience of people from Latin America to the United States and selected European countries. The course offers students a comparative historical perspective on immigration and immigration policy and it explores the political, cultural, and socioeconomic impact of immigration processes in the receiving settings and the differences and similarities in the life experience of immigrants after settlement, focusing on socioeconomic outcomes and political participation broadly defined.
R POS 348 Comparative Urban Politics: The United States and Europe (3)
This course examines urban politics historically and comparatively looking at social movements, neighborhood mobilization, and urban public policy in American and European cities. The course focuses on the interplay between urban political mobilization, urban policy, and political change. The course will review theories of power and compare urban government structures and their relationship to political participation and political representation.
R POS 349 (= A LCS 349) Urban Politics in Latin America (3)
This course examines from a theoretical and historical perspective the context and character of politics and political participation in major Latin American urban cities. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 350 (= R PAD 350; formerly R PUB 350) Comparative Public Policy (3)
Comparison of the processes, content, and impact of public policy in both developed and underdeveloped, socialist and nonsocialist countries. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101 or R POS 140, or junior or senior standing.
R POS 351 European Politics (3)
Politics and political change in contemporary Europe, as reflected in ideology, organization and leadership. Both Western and Eastern Europe are treated in a common, comparative framework.
R POS 353 Developing Political Systems (3)
A study of political development and modernization in The Third World of Asia, Africa, and Latin America; the meanings and measurement of the concepts; groups involved in the process such as the military, bureaucracies, intellectuals, minorities, and charismatic leaders.
R POS 354 Russian Domestic Politics (3)
In-depth study of Russian and Soviet internal politics, 1861 to the present. Emphasizes the activities of the Communist party of the Soviet Union-political, economic, and ideological-and changing characteristics of the Soviet political system. Equal attention to the origins of the Communist party and to the Lenin, Stalin, Khrushchev, Brezhnev, Andropov, Gorbachev, and Yeltsin eras.
R POS 355 Government and Politics in Sub-Saharan Africa (3)
The relationship between ideologies, institutions, and individuals in African political systems. Examines implications of these factors for African political behaviors (domestic and international).
R POS 356 Russian Foreign Policy (3)
Survey of Soviet and Russian activities in international relations, 1917 to the present. Attention is focused on the Soviet Union's relations with Western Europe, Eastern Europe, China, the developing nations, and the United States, and contemporary Russian policy. Previous study of Soviet internal politics is desirable, but not a prerequisite.
R POS 357 (= A LCS 357) Latin American & Caribbean Politics (3)
The course will examine the current process and societies in the hemisphere. Emphasis will be on Latin America and the Caribbean with implications of globalization for all workers and societies of the Americas. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A LCS 100 or permission of instructor.
R POS 360 Violent Political Conflict (3)
This course is designed to introduce students to the study of violent political conflict. We will examine the how, why, and when of violent political conflict both domestic and international. What are the key empirical and normative questions raised by violent political conflict and what answers to these questions does the literature offer? What other strategies, like nonviolence and negotiation are available to actors instead of political violence? In this course, in addition to studying the theories that have been developed to explain the politics and history of violent political conflict, students will have an opportunity to participate in simulation exercises designed to sharpen their analytic skills in the subject area. R POS 360 is the non-Honors version of the T POS 260. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 361 Comparative Ethnicity (3)
The composition and problems of various ethnic and religious minorities: their origins, characteristics, political mobilization, and degree of integration into the social and political systems of the new post-colonial nations of Asia, Africa, and Latin America examined against a background of European, American, and Russian experience. T POS 261 is the Honors College version of R POS 361; only one may be taken for credit.
R POS 362 Nationalism and Nation-Building (3)
Classical and recent scholarly debates regarding nationalism and nation-building: theoretical and historical evolution of nationalism, nationalist movements, and nation-building; some of the most salient contemporary issues related to the national question, including the effects of globalization and the resurgence of nationalist movements in the post-Cold War era.
R POS 363 (= R CRJ 353) American Criminal Courts (3)
Examines the organization and operations of state and local criminal court systems from the perspective of social science research and public policy analysis. Major issues include: the role of courts in American society; bail and pre-trial procedures; the roles and decisions of prosecutors, judges and the defense bar; selection and operation of grand juries and trial juries; sentencing of criminal defendants; and others. The operations of juvenile and adult courts are compared, and efforts directed toward court reform are assessed. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing.
R POS 364 Building Democracy (3)
A key shift in politics around the world has been the increasing number of democracies. This shift has important implications for everything from human rights to economic policy. This course will explore the causes and effects of democratization focusing on topics such as political economy, international pressures, and coalition building.
R POS 365 Government and the Mass Media (3)
Study of the relation of the mass media to the American political process, including an examination of the effect of the mass media on legislative actions, the executive, voting behavior, and the bureaucracy.
R POS 366 (= R PAD 364) Approaches to Development (3)
Leaders and citizens of low and moderate income countries have long worked to increase economic, social and political development. After reviewing the origin and evolution of these concepts, the class will focus on how national leaders, international institutions as the World Bank, and nongovernmental organizations have pursued development. The class will address the steps that can be taken to address persistent problems of global poverty, public health, deficits in democracy, and widespread armed conflict. The course will take an interdisciplinary approach that will blend insights from the disciplines of economics, political science, and anthropology in order to generate fresh thinking on important policy issues facing governments in developing and developed countries. Aside from readings, and class discussions, groups of students will work together to address important issues in policy memos that will be presented to the class. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior status.
R POS 367 Politics of the Middle East (3)
This class will cover selected topics in relation to the political development of the Middle and near East, an area loosely defined to cover the region from Morocco to Afghanistan and including modern Turkey and the Caspian littoral states. Topics will vary. Examples will include, but are not limited to, the classic British Imperial period, revolutions, the oil industry, regional conflicts such as the Iran-Iraq war of the 1980s, and the tensions between secular modernization and Islamic systems of government.
R POS 368 Information Technology and World Politics (3)
Broad overview of the information revolution and its political consequences. Examines the impact of information technologies on diplomacy, global security, the international political economy, and international organization with a particular emphasis on the use of administrative information systems and the Internet by governments and other public sector organizations.
R POS 370 International Relations: Theory (3)
The uses of theory in observing the interaction patterns found in the international system. Examines concepts of equilibrium, conflict and nationalism. Theoretical propositions about power, war, and diplomacy are tested and counter-theories formulated.
R POS 371 International Relations: Practice (3)
Fundamental procedures of interstate and transnational relations. The historical evolution of the international system, statecraft, the use of force, negotiation and diplomacy, alliance formation, and nationalism and imperialism. Note: R POS 370 is not a prerequisite for R POS 371.
R POS 373 (= A EAC 373) Government and Politics in the People's Republic of China (3)
Examination of the origins of the Communist movement in China against the backdrop of the decline of dynastic rule and the era of Western imperialism. The implications of ideology, institutions, and individuals for public policy in the People's Republic of China. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 375 International Organization (3)
The structure and processes of the United Nations evaluated in terms of its historical antecedents and the challenges that face it. The operational foundations of the specialized agencies and such other governmental organizations as are universal in character. Close attention to the forces and interest groups of international scope to which the United Nations and related organizations respond.
R POS 376 The Foreign Policy of the People's Republic of China (3)
The post-1949 foreign policy of the People's Republic of China, especially vis-à-vis the United States, the Soviet Union, Western Europe, Japan, and an array of developing countries.
R POS 377 Politics of Southeast Asia (3)
This class will introduce the politics and societies of the eleven states comprising Southeast Asia. The course will include an overview of the regions as a whole as well as of each country's political and social order, an exploration of prevailing theoretical approaches to the study of Southeast Asia and an analysis of major political issues of the region: nationalism and nation-building, ethnic and religious pluralism, developmentalism, reformist movements, and regional initiatives. Prerequisite(s): Prior knowledge of one or more countries in the region is helpful, but not required. R POS 102 strongly recommended.
R POS 380 Basics of International Law (3)
Analytical survey of the precedents and limitations of world law. The uses of law for the pacific settling of disputes and wars using varied texts, cases, and documents.
R POS 383 American Foreign Policy (3)
An examination of the patterns of American foreign policy in economic and security issues from the turn of the century through the end of the Cold War. This analysis provides the basis for discussion of the prospects for American foreign policy as we move into the 21st century.
R POS 384 Formulation of American Foreign Policy (3)
Introduction to the political institutions and values of the American foreign policy process. Issues considered: American national character; the search for national interests; the role of interest groups and public opinion; the Congress; the presidency; the military-industrial complex; the policy system in times of peace and Cold War.
R POS 386 International Conflict and Security (3)
This course explores the use of coercive diplomacy and military violence in international relations. It focuses on the broad security issues facing states and examines the factors that bring them into conflict with one another. Topics may include economic sanctions, military power, international conflict, arms races, arms control, alliance politics, multilateralism, terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, and foreign support of insurgencies. Students will be called upon to analyze these topics through some combination of policy briefs, research papers, and examinations.
R POS 387 Public Spending and Fiscal Policy (3)
This course focuses on the politics of public finances. It explores the social conflicts surrounding taxation, public spending, and public debt, the role played by different political actors and institutions in fiscal policy choices, and the influence of non-governmental and supra-national organizations (like rating agencies or the International Monetary Fund) on national public finance. It seeks to answer questions like 'Why do different countries spend and tax so differently?' 'Why do some countries get dangerously indebted?' 'How do others keep their budgets in balance?' The course relies primarily on lectures and class discussion. The last five classes are set aside for team-projects analyzing the significant problems of several countries in the wake of the global economic and financial crisis.
R POS 390 (= R PAD 390; formerly R PUB 390) Internship: Political Science/Public Administration & Policy (3)
Students will actively participate in the political process through working in a staff position at a recognized political agency, organization or institution to test - in a nonacademic setting - the concepts and theories examined in the classroom. Internships are open only to qualified juniors and seniors. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. S/U graded.
R POS 395 (= R PAD 395; formerly R PUB 395) International Political Economy (3)
Examines world trade conflicts and impact of economic nationalism on global economy. Emphasizes U.S. policy formulation in recent decades and trade protection and economic nationalism as exercised in U.S. domestic and foreign policy. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 396 (= R PAD 396; formerly R PUB 396) Energy Policy, Domestic and International (3)
Analyzes present and future shortfall of energy supplies, availability of fuel sources to replace imported oil or U.S. energy production, and conflicts between OPEC, OECD consumers, and U.S. government. Projections of future conflict over energy controls within and between nation states. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101 or R POS/R PAD 140, or junior or senior standing.
R POS 397 Experiential and Service Learning in Political Science (0-3)
This course provides academic structure and oversight to service-learning and community engagement components available as options in other Political Science offerings. May be repeated but only three credits total may apply for the major in Political Science.
R POS 398 (= R PAD 398; formerly R PUB 398) Comparative National Security Policy (3)
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the major theoretical explanations for the foundation and implementation of national security policy. The course will focus of two central questions. First, what determines the basic security strategy of different states? Second, once this strategy is mapped, how do different states translate strategy into particular security policies? A variety of historical and contemporary cases will be used to determine which theories best answer these questions. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 399 (= R PAD 399; formerly R PUB 399) Selected Topics (3)
Investigation of selected topics in political science and/or public policy. Specific topics selected and announced by the instructor when offered. May be repeated for credit if content varies. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101 and R POS 102, and permission of instructor.
R POS 400 Honors Tutorial in Political Science (1)
A one credit honors tutorial accompanying a 400 level political science course. May be repeated for credit. Open only to students in the Political Science Honors Program. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
R POS 410Z (= R PAD 410Z; formerly R PUB 410Z) Minorities and the Politico-Legal System (3)
Selected minority problems that appear in connection with the politico-legal system. Considers legislative, administrative and judicial responses and explores alternative public policy options. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 417Z Research Methods in Political Science (3)
Continuation of R POS 316. It is expected that students will have taken R POS 316 during the first semester of the current academic year in which they enroll for this course. Prerequisite(s): R POS 316.
R POS 419Z Seminar in Political Theory (3)
Special topics in political theory and philosophy. Prerequisite(s): two courses in political theory, or permission of instructor.
R POS 424 Community Politics (3)
Examines the bases of power at the local level. Political power, social stratification, and technology are discussed within a historical and contemporary context. Recommended: prior course in state and local government.
R POS 425Z Justice Reform in Latin America (3)
This course examines the patterns, causes, and consequences of justice reforms in Latin America over the last 30 years. Students will first explore the political, economic, and social costs of weak, abusive, or otherwise ineffective justice institutions, and then address the ways in which national and regional reform projects have sought to improve these institutions, including police, prosecutors, and courts, as well as non-criminal justice institutions (e.g., family and commercial courts).
R POS 426Z American Constitutional Law I (3)
This course focuses on the major constitutional controversies of 18th and 19th centuries. Using Supreme Court decisions and other documents, the course will examine dominant constitutional understandings of the Founding, Jeffersonian, Jacksonian, Civil War, Reconstruction, and Guilded Age periods. The course includes an examination of Americans' understandings of the power and authority of the federal and government, and the rights persons possessed under the Constitution.
R POS 427Z American Constitutional Law II (3)
This course focuses on the major constitutional controversies of the 20th and 21st centuries. Using Supreme Court decisions and other documents, the course will examine dominant constitutional understandings of the progressive, New Deal, Great Society, Reagan conservative reformers. The course includes an examination of Americans' understandings of the power and authority of the federal and government, and the rights persons possessed under the Constitution.
R POS 428Z Comparative Legal Systems (3)
Examination of basic cases in their historical settings and analysis in terms of legal or constitutional issues and judicial doctrines in the area of criminal justice, including search and seizure, self-incrimination, the right to counsel, and the right of a fair trial.
R POS 430Z Founding the American National Government (3)
Many contemporary disputes in American politics reflect ongoing debates that were first articulated clearly during the drafting and ratification of the Constitution in 1787. (Some examples: war powers, small versus large government, governmental concern with character formation or morality, factions and the common good, direct democracy versus representation, the role of "elites," etc.) This course will examine the founding debates closely, linking specific decisions to some of the broad themes just mentioned. It will also use student papers to carry the disputes through the early years of the government. The course will require interpretive papers based on assigned reading, and one research paper based on primary source documentation. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing.
R POS 433/433Z (= A WSS 433/433Z) Women, Politics, and Power (3)
Examines the role of women within American society; identifies the systematic factors that have contributed to women's sociopolitical exclusion; and investigates selected contemporary ideologies that posit a redefinition of the power relationships within society as the primary political objective. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 435Z Congress and the Presidency (3)
An examination of the dynamic political inter-relationship between the elected branches of government. Specific topics may vary from year to year, but typical ones would include: the President's legislative role; Congress's role in foreign and national security policy; the budget as a vehicle for interbranch conflict; and proposals for institutional reform. Short, theme papers and a longer research paper will be required. Some previous course work on Congress or the Presidency is recommended.
R POS 437Z Law and Society (3)
Examination of central aspects of the legal process, focusing primarily on Anglo-American common law. Attention to the meaning of law and law's functions; legal education and practice; basic procedural matters, and exposure to the law of manufacturer's liability, contracts and labor management relations (injunctions and administrative law).
R POS 438Z Political Behavior (3)
Politically relevant behaviors are discussed in terms of their psychological and sociological determinants. Emphasizes manifest and latent political training in numerous contexts.
R POS 439/439Z Topics in American Politics (3)
Special topics course in American politics. Topics will vary from semester to semester. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 447 (= A LCS 465) Latino/as and Inequality in America (3)
This course is about the political engagement of Latinas and Latinos and the political and economic forces that historically have impeded their full incorporation in U.S. society. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): open to seniors and graduate students.
R POS 448Z Identities, Boundaries & Mobilization (3)
This course explores the political nature of identities, and particularly the way collective identities are shaped, maintained, and deployed. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, we will examine key dimensions of identity, modes and strategies of inclusion and exclusion, forms of "identity politics," and questions of intersectionality (the overlapping of identity categories, as for race and gender). Course materials will span everything from theoretical approaches to identity mobilization, to nationalism and secessionism, to the politics of gender and ethnicity, and will combine conceptual works, case studies, and literature. Assignments will include a series of short reaction papers, a collaborative final project, and class presentations. Only one of T POS 248 and R POS 448Z may be taken for credit.
R POS 449/449Z Topics in Public Law (3)
Special topics course in Public Law. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): two courses in public law, or permission of instructor.
R POS 450Z Theory and Research on Global Politics (3)
The course will focus on how comparative and international politics is researched. The theories of one global politics topic will be studied in depth (the topic will change each semester). Students who successfully complete the course will be eligible to do independent studies as research assistants for Global Politics faculty.
R POS 452Z Communist and Post-Communist Political Systems (3)
The characteristics of East European regimes in the modern world: the role of the political parties; the state and bureaucracy, mostly after World War II and in the aftermath of the collapse of communism; relations of these states in the world political system.
R POS 469/469Z Topics in Comparative Politics (3)
Special topics course in Comparative Politics. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): two courses in Comparative Politics, or permission of instructor.
R POS 472Z International Conflict and Resolution (3)
An inquiry that includes strategic studies, arms control, foreign policy, and super power relations in the global threat system. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101, 102, 370 or 371, and junior or senior standing.
R POS 473Z Economic Relations in the Global System (3)
An inquiry into international trade relations, energy and foreign economic policies adopted by industrial and developing nations, and the exchange relations that govern the course of transnational politics. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101, R POS 102, and junior or senior standing.
R POS 474Z Politics of International Migration (3)
Surveys the domestic and international politics of migration. Examines labor migration to advanced industrial states, border control, immigrant incorporation, refugee policies, emigrant participation in home country politics and the effect of migration on international development, democratization, and security.
R POS 479/479Z Topics in International Relations (3)
Special topics course in International Relations. May be repeated for credit if content varies. Prerequisite(s): two courses in International Relations or permission of instructor.
R POS 484Z American Foreign Policy Formulation and Implementation (3)
A study of the foreign policy making and diplomacy of the United States, the objectives and formulation of policy goals and procedures and the domestic constraints on U.S. statecraft. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior class standing.
R POS 486 (= R PAD 486 & H HPM 486) International Health and Human Rights: an Interdisciplinary Approach (3)
This course takes an interdisciplinary approach to health and human rights and the contemporary challenges and solutions associated with them. The course will be taught with guest lectures from experts in public health, philosophy, social welfare, law, gender studies, public administration the United Nations, among others. Through lectures, discussion and case studies, students will develop a broad theoretical understanding of health as a human right, become familiar with legal and policy frameworks to support public health, and acquire skills in the application of these concepts and the implementation and evaluation of solutions to our modern health challenges. T PAD/T POS/T SPH 272 is the Honors College version of R PAD/R POS/H HPM 486. Only one version may be taken for credit.
R POS 495Z (= R PAD 490Z; formerly R PUB 490Z) Research and Writing in Washington (3)
This is the research and writing component of the department's spring Semester in Washington program. Admission by application. Enrollment limited. For information and applications, see Rockefeller College's website. Only one version may be taken for credit. Corequisite(s): R POS/R PAD 341 and R POS/R PAD 342.
R POS 496Z Great Ideas in Political Science (4)
This course is designed to provide students beginning the Honors Program with a high level seminar on the major theories, approaches and issues in the field of Political Science. It will concentrate on the most prominent and challenging ideas in Political Theory, Global Politics, American Politics, Public Law, and Public Policy. There will be extensive reading and the writing assignments will meet University requirements for a writing intensive course.
R POS 498/498Z Independent Study (1-6)
Reading, research and intensive writing course work in a one-on-one relationship with a faculty member. To be overseen by the Chair of the Department. May be repeated for credit if content varies. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101 and R POS 102, or junior or senior standing, and permission of instructor and department chair. A-E graded.
R POS 499Z Honors Thesis (4)
Reading, research, and intensive writing course work for an honors thesis, under the direction of an individual faculty member, as part of the Honors Program. Prerequisite(s): R POS 101, 102, 103, Honors student status, and permission of instructor or department chair.
