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POL 101 - Introduction to Political Science


Credits: 3
3 Lecture Hours

Description
This course provides student with a general introduction to politics and governance by studying the basic theories and terminology of Political Science. To this end, the semester is broken up into four distinct sections that correspond with four of the major sub-fields within the discipline. The areas of emphasis include political philosophy, comparative institutions, international relations, and American politics. While studying each sub-field, students will be asked to consider current political events. Students will recognize the importance of academic terms and concepts once they are observed against the backdrop of “real world” political events.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will:

  1. List differences between modern political ideologies.
  2. Assess specific political issues (e.g., poverty, free trade and discrimination) through the lens of different political ideologies.
  3. Compare the advantages and disadvantages between parliamentary and presidential democracy.
  4. Compare different forms of representation (proportional vs. single member districts).
  5. Compare and contrast Contending theories of International Relations.
  6. Explain the American Electoral College system and how it compares with how other electoral systems.
  7. Assess the arguments for why governments and politics are necessary.
Listed Topics
  1. Introduction to Political Science
  2. Define Politics and Government
  3. Introduction to political ideologies
  4. Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Fascism
  5. The issue of world poverty as seen through different ideological lenses
  6. Parliamentary Democracy
  7. Presidential Democracy
  8. Proportional representation
  9. Single member districts
  10. Contending theoretical perspectives within International Relations
  11. Electoral Systems
Reference Materials
Contemporary text and appropriate AV materials.
Approved By: Sutin, Stewart Date Approved: 07/13/2006


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