Course Description
Selected writers, themes, or methodologies in political theory.
Athena Title
SP TOPICS POL THEOR
Prerequisite
POLS 1101
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
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.
Topical Outline
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
Syllabus