Minor with Focus in Political Theory

POLS 111 INTRO TO US POLITICS

Introduction to the study, analysis and evaluation of U.S. political institutions, processes and policies. Subjects of the course include the structure of the federal government, constitutional rights and liberties, the functions of political parties, interest groups, communication media, and the process of democratic decision-making.

POLS 221 INTRO TO POLITICAL THEORY

Introduction to the practice of thinking theoretically about politics. Readings will include classic works (such as Aristotle’s Politics, Hobbes’ Leviathan, Locke’s Second Treatise on Civil Government) as well as some American and 20th-century political theory. The course stresses careful reading of texts, but also encourages students to theorize on their own about present-day political questions.

POLS 311 CLASSICS/POLITICAL THEORY

Study of several especially interesting and important works of political theory from the ancient, modern and contemporary periods. The course examines historicist, feminist and postmodern interpretations of the works assigned. Since the course assumes some background in political theory, students will be able to consider more carefully and in greater detail the insights these works provide for the study of politics.

POLS 312 AMERICAN POLITICAL THOUGHT

What is America? How have Americans thought about democracy, equality, power and justice through the last two centuries? This course focuses on the central questions that have shaped American politics by examining the primary texts written by men and women who have contributed to the continuing debates.

POLS 313 20TH C POLITICAL THOUGHT

Examination of political thought throughout the turbulent 20th century, with special attention to writers who theorize about justice and the struggle to achieve it. Topics covered may include: just and unjust wars, imperialism, economic justice, justice in relations between men and women and between members of different racial and ethnic groups. A careful study of the ideas of the 20th century will prepare students to face the new challenges of the 21st century.

POLS 314 FEMINIST POLITICAL THEORY

Examination of the common theme that cannot be ignored in feminist thought: a claim to equality. This course examines the many varieties of feminist political theory including liberal feminism, radical feminism and socialist feminism. Students will look at how feminism has dealt with gender, ethnicity, sexual preference and examine where feminist theory is going into the future.