Examines principles and problems of American political institutions, including the role of government and politics in society, the balancing of liberty with authority, and the theories of the state. Probes mechanisms of citizen empowerment and control (public opinion, pressure groups, political parties, elections), and formal structure. Public policy as a means to meet societal needs is analyzed and evaluated along with the tools that citizens can use to influence the public policy process. Also examines foreign and domestic public policy and contemporary events. Includes how to write effective arguments as well as how to formally present political arguments.
Goals, Topics, and Objectives
- American Democracy and Political Culture
- Constitutional Framework and Federalism
- Executive Branch
- Legislative Branch
- Judicial Branch
- Civil Liberties
- Civil Rights
- Political Parties and Interest Groups
- Political Socialization and Public Opinion
- The Mass Media Role in Politics and Public Policy
- Citizen Participation and Electoral Politics
- Civic Participation and Responsibility
- Domestic Economic Policy
- Educational and Social Policy
- American Foreign Policy
- Identify and explain the institutions of U.S. government and the constitutional framework: The legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government.
- Describe the public policy process.
- Explain civil rights and civil liberties from a historical perspective, and analyze how civil rights and civil liberties impact American society today.
- Describe how American democracy is based on citizen participation and the electoral process.
- Discuss extra-constitutional institutions and their impact on Americans.
- Compose a strategic political participation action plan for articulating political voice.
- Distinguish between civil rights and liberties and civic responsibilities.
- Evaluate the norms and values of democratic societies and institutions with the actions of political participation.
Assessment and Requirements
Each instructor will identify and implement appropriate methods to assess the achievement of the learning objectives for the course.
Civic Action Activity surrounding a contemporary political will be a central focus of this course. Students will develop a Strategic Plan for raising their concern/issue on the public and the political agenda at a local, state, national, or international level.
Common text book to be determined by Political Science Department.
Outcomes
- Social Sciences
- Civil Society and Culture - U.S. and Global
- Category 4: Social Sciences
Credit for Prior College-Level Learning
Determined by department.