INTRODUCTION TO AMERICAN GOVERNMENT & POLITICS | POLI 1 | SPRING 2017
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COURSE DESCRIPTION
Critical examination of the contemporary and historical struggle for the development of democratic political institutions in the United States at the state, local, and national levels. Particular emphasis is given to the conflict between disparate socioeconomic groups (e.g. traditional elite's versus the historically (and currently) disenfranchised; women, people of color, workers, immigrants, etc.) in the conduct of U.S. political life. |
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BOOK
Crain, C. A People's Primer. Ebook/Course (Go to Bookstore) RESOURCES Democracy Lecture PowerPoint NEW Social Contract Theory site HISTORY OF THE VOTING RIGHTS ACT Bill of Rights handout Amendments 11-27 Dred Scott Case Brown v Board of Ed The End of America - Naomi Wolf Brief History of US Military Interventions |
INSTRUCTORS PERSPECTIVE
This is an introductory course on the U.S. political system as we know it today. Many of us learn about politics through a mixture of personal experiences and external influences (namely family, media, political parties, etc). The personal and external forces inform not only our perception of the world but how we learn about the system and our understanding of the utility of democracy.
Throughout the term, you'll learn not just about how the system works, but how you can think critically and act effectively as a participant in the American political process. Most people don't believe they are impacted by politics merely from the simple fact that they don't vote or don't watch the news. It's important to realize that our experiences are intrinsically connected to politics and our governing system. I ask that you challenge yourself to step out in this course with an open mind and an empathetic ear. You will be learning about the U.S. government in a critical and pragmatic way.
It's an important and exciting time in the world. There are big issues at stake. With the high number of people on the planet the conversation on the distribution of resources and the debate on the use of power are key to navigating the modern world. The speed of technological change combined with reach of the global economy present us with important opportunities and grave dangers. I hope that through this class you will be inspired to take action and that you'll learn how to make this action effective in your local community and around the world.
This is an introductory course on the U.S. political system as we know it today. Many of us learn about politics through a mixture of personal experiences and external influences (namely family, media, political parties, etc). The personal and external forces inform not only our perception of the world but how we learn about the system and our understanding of the utility of democracy.
Throughout the term, you'll learn not just about how the system works, but how you can think critically and act effectively as a participant in the American political process. Most people don't believe they are impacted by politics merely from the simple fact that they don't vote or don't watch the news. It's important to realize that our experiences are intrinsically connected to politics and our governing system. I ask that you challenge yourself to step out in this course with an open mind and an empathetic ear. You will be learning about the U.S. government in a critical and pragmatic way.
It's an important and exciting time in the world. There are big issues at stake. With the high number of people on the planet the conversation on the distribution of resources and the debate on the use of power are key to navigating the modern world. The speed of technological change combined with reach of the global economy present us with important opportunities and grave dangers. I hope that through this class you will be inspired to take action and that you'll learn how to make this action effective in your local community and around the world.