The Politics of Collective Action: Theory and Strategy
POLS 4541
3 hours
The Politics of Collective Action: Theory and Strategy
Analytical Thinking
Course Description
Collective action is the fundamental subject of political science.
This course offers students an interdisciplinary perspective to
questions about how and why individuals come together to solve the
social/economic/political problems faced by their communities,
understanding why these efforts either succeed or fail, and
strategies for overcoming collective action problems.
Athena Title
Politics of Collective Action
Prerequisite
POLS 1101 or POLS 1101E or POLS 1101H or POLS 1101S
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
Students will be able to identify everyday, unresolved collective action problems faced by their communities.
Students will understand the social, cognitive, and institutional mechanisms that facilitate or inhibit collective action.
Students will use this information to conceptualize strategic approaches to resolving collective action problems.
Students will develop a deeper understanding of the relationship between institutions and individual/group behaviors.
Topical Outline
Introduction to Collective Action and Social Dilemma
The Logic of Collective Action
Evolutionary Theories of Collective Action
Collective Action and Human Cognition
Social Influences on Collective Action
Collective Action and American Political Development
"Gaming the System"
Designing Systems Resistant to Political Gamesmanship
Institutional Competencies Learning Outcomes
Analytical Thinking
The ability to reason, interpret, analyze, and solve problems from a wide array of authentic contexts.
