POLS 1016 Intro to Political Science

This new course is designed to introduce students to the Social Science discipline of Political Science. Political Science is the study of politics, governance, political behaviors and cultures, institutions, and processes. The major sub-disciplines of Political Theory, Political Philosophy, Comparative/World Politics, International Relations, Public Administration, and American Politics are presented. Connections to other social science disciplines such as psychology and sociology are discussed through exploration of the cultural, psychological, sociological dimensions of politics, and political behavior. Monarchy, democracy, theocracy, socialism, communism, dictatorship, and other major political systems and movements, both in terms of political theory and through historical examples from multiple regions and countries are examined. (3 lect.)

Credits

3 credits

Transfer Status

Transferable to UW.

Major Topics

Political Science as an Academic discipline The Nature of Politics Political Behavior The Impact of Diverse Political Cultures Political Theory and Philosophy Comparative/World Politics International Relations Public Administration American Politics Connection of Political Science to other Social Science Disciplines Major Political Systems, Movements, and Forms of Governance

Outcomes

In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:

1. Examine the field of Political Science as a major discipline within the Social Sciences.

10. Report research findings to the class (see objective 9). (Assessment: individual research project, in-class presentation of research)

2. Distinguish between major Political Science sub-disciplines:

2a. Political Theory

2b. Political Philosophy

2c. Comparative/World Politics

2d. International Relations

2e. Public Administration

2f. American Politics

3. Utilize the basic concepts and vocabulary employed in the field of Political Science. (Assessment: participation, reading quizzes)

4. Research, analyze, and discuss historical and current trends in the study of politics and governance including the evolution of Political Science and approaches to the study of politics over time. (Assessment: participation, reading quizzes, individual research)

5. Research the connections between Political Science and other social science disciplines, and those fields in which one or more disciplines generate an interdisciplinary sub-discipline such as Political Psychology or International Political Economy. (Assessment: participation, reading quizzes)

6. Analyze the theory and application of the world?s major political theories, political philosophies, and resulting political systems and institutions, both current and historical.

7. Examine historical and contemporary case studies and make conclusions concerning the success or failure of various political theories and their applications.

8. Evaluate the role of political culture and its impact on the application of political theory. (Assessment: participation, reading quizzes)

9. Perform independent research on a case study of the student?s choice (with instructor guidance), focusing on a major political movement, its underlying theory and resulting institutions and processes, as embodied in a specific state (country) in a particular historical era.

Other Information

Any information placed here must be adhered to by all instructors:

1. Students will employ current technology as necessary part of their research. 2. Students will present and discuss their research to other students via both formal presentations and informal discussions.