This course allows students to pursue topics that are not covered in the regular
curriculum or are covered less intensively.  Special topics courses are individually
designed by the instructor for a specific semester.  In the area of political theory,
students will study specific aspects of questions raised in other political theory
courses, such as the nature of democracy, how electoral systems work, and the place
of individual rights during times of war or national crisis.  Students will be
exposed to the leading arguments and conceptions related to these topics and their
understanding of government, society, and policy.  They will learn to follow
arguments logically and substantively.  As a result, students will enhance their
ability to provide a critical evaluation of leading ethical and philosophical
positions and their solutions to policy issues.  In the area of methodology, students
will study particular methodological techniques such as regression analysis or
special research designs such as natural experiments.  Students will enhance their
analytical and research skills through laboratory and other assignments.  Students
may be evaluated based on examinations, research papers, class discussion,
presentations, and/or homework.

Possible Theory Topics:

The nature of democracy
Equality versus Rights
The meaning of political legitimacy
What is justice?
Market and government
Liberalism and Conservatism
Libertarianism and Anarchism
Socialism
The duties of citizens

Possible Methods Topics:

Statistics for political analysis
Research design
Field Experiments
Evaluating published research
Understanding poll results
Probability and politics

All academic work must meet the standards contained in "A Culture of Honesty."  
Students are responsible for informing themselves about these standards before 
performing academic work.  The penalties for academic dishonesty are severe and 
ignorance is not an acceptable defense.  Also note that the course syllabus is a 
general plan for the course and that deviations announced to the class by the 
instructor may be necessary.