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| Politics-Departmental Seminar | |
| PLAD 1500 | Introductory Seminar in Politics (3) |
| Introduces the discipline of political science through intensive study of the political dimensions of a selected topic. Prerequisite: open to first- and second-year students; only one PLAD seminar per student. | |
| PLAD 2222 | Research Methods (3) |
| This course is an introduction to political science research methods. We will address basic principles of research design and data analysis, including hypothesis testing, measurement, case selection and data gathering. What are the strengths and weaknesses of particular methods? How can we improve our ability to draw inferences from data? Our goals are to learn how to ask good questions and to consider different approaches to answering them. Course was offered Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2019, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Spring 2011 | |
| PLAD 2500 | Special Topics in Politics (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Special Topics in Politics Course was offered Spring 2024, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, January 2021, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Fall 2016, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2010 |
| PLAD 3500 | Special Topics (3) |
| Special Topics in Politics. | |
| PLAD 4500 | Special Topics (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Topics on a variety of Political issues. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Spring 2018 |
| PLAD 4960 | Thesis for Distinguished Majors Program (3) |
| American Politics Prerequisite: Admission into the department's Distinguished Majors Program. | |
| PLAD 4961 | Thesis Seminar for Distinguished Majors Program Part 2 (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Part two of the Politics Department Distinguished Majors thesis seminar. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Spring 2011, Spring 2010 |
| PLAD 4990 | Honors Proseminar on Research Design and Thesis Writing (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | A critical analysis of important issues in political analysis and research design from diverse perspectives. Issues include: framing research questions, causal analysis, rational choice, comparative historical institutionalism, interpretivism, case studies, and quantitative analysis. Prerequisite: Admission to Politics Honors Program Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Spring 2011, Spring 2010 |
| PLAD 4999 | Senior Thesis (3) |
| Supervised work on a thesis for Honors students
Prerequisite: Enrollment in the Politics Honors Program Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2016, Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013 | |
| PLAD 5130 | Collective Action and Social Change (3) |
| Collective Action and Social Change. | |
| PLAD 5500 | Special Topics (3) |
| Topics on a variety of Political issues. | |
| PLAD 5993 | Independent Study (1 - 3) |
| Readings and writings from various disciplines relating to Political Science. | |
| PLAD 7045 | Game Theory: Applications and Experiments (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Game theory is the analytic study of strategic interactions among individuals, firms, governments, or other groups of people. This course demonstrates the usefulness of this powerful analytic approach, through numerous real-world and scholarly applications and through an examination of lab experiments built upon game theoretic modeling techniques. Cross-listed with PPOL 7045. |
| PLAD 7090 | Research Methods and Design in Political Science (3) |
| Studies the theoretical formulation of questions for political science research and examination of the design and execution of empirical research. Includes consideration of developing hypotheses for research, strategies for data collection (survey research, observational methods, content analysis), managing research projects, and ethical considerations related to the conduct of research. | |
| PLAD 7100 | Political Research with Quantitative Methods (4) |
| Introduces probability and statistics as tools for quantitative political science analysis. Covers basic probability theory, descriptive statistics, and statistical inference with focus on the specification and interpretation of the regression model. Weekly homework assignments allow students to practice applying the concepts and methods from class. The course requires no prior experience with statistics. | |
| PLAD 7500 | Special Topics in Politics (1 - 3) |
| Intensive analysis of selected issues and concepts that are relevant to all subfields of political science. Course was offered Fall 2021, Spring 2020, Fall 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2011 | |
| PLAD 7750 | Supervised Research I (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Supervised Research I Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLAD 8120 | Qualitative and Mixed Methods (3) |
| Examines qualitative methods in political science, including ethnography, interviewing, focus groups, process tracing, and archival research, while exploring their integration with large-n methodologies such as field and natural experiments and survey research. Explores theoretical, empirical, and epistemological issues in qualitative and multi-method research, with attention to concept definition and measurement. | |
| PLAD 8220 | Graduate Development Seminar (3) |
| This course has three main objectives: to help you improve your written work; to teach you how to maximally benefit from discussing your written work with your colleagues, and to enable you to become a more incisive reader and helpful critic of your colleagues' work. | |
| PLAD 8310 | Regression Analysis (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | This course introduces regression analysis in political science. It covers linear regression, the ordinary least squares (OLS) estimator, interpretation of results, and regression diagnostics. The course also introduces generalized linear models (GLMs), maximum likelihood estimation (MLE), and regression analysis with binary outcomes. A separate section of the course focuses on implementation of regression analysis in R programming language. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Fall 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLAD 8320 | Advanced Topics in Multivariate Analysis (3) |
| A survey and application of multivariate modeling techniques. Prerequisite: PLAD 7090, 7100, or equivalents. | |
| PLAD 8500 | Topics in Political Science (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Investigates a selected issue in political science. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Fall 2012, Spring 2011 |
| PLAD 8750 | Supervised Research II (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Supervised Research II Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLAD 8900 | Departmental Pro-Seminar (3) |
| For advanced graduate students who have completed core courses in the relevant departmental subfields. Allows students to read, criticize, and discuss with authors a variety of works-in-progress presented by visiting scholars, departmental faculty, and their peers. Course was offered Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| Politics-American Politics | |
| PLAP 150 | Special Topics in American Politics (0) |
| Special Topics in American Politics. | |
| PLAP 1010 | Introduction to American Politics (3) |
| Surveys the fundamentals of American government and politics, systematically covering the major institutions of our system (the presidency, the Congress, the courts) as well as the system's essential processes. Course was offered Fall 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Spring 2012, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLAP 2030 | Politics, Science and Values: An Introduction to Environmental Policy (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Introduces a wide variety of domestic and international environmental policy issues. Explores how political processes, scientific evidence, ideas, and values affect environmental policymaking. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013 |
| PLAP 2250 | American Political Tradition (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | This course explores the theoretical ideas that informed the creation and development of America's political system and considers some of the major contemporary challenges to the maintenance of American liberal democracy. Topics to be treated include the political thought of the American Founders, the place of religion in public life, the nature of written constitutions and the role of America in the world. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLAP 2500 | Special Topics in American Politics (3) |
| Special Topics in American Politics. | |
| PLAP 3140 | Mass Media and American Politics (3) |
| Examines the role of mass media in the political process including such topics as print, broadcast, and online news, media and election campaigns, political advertising, and media effects on public opinion and political participation. Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Summer 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLAP 3150 | Political Psychology of Citizen Politics (3) |
| Examines the role of individual and collective psychology in political processes and behavior, with a particular emphasis on citizen psychology, including political information processing and reasoning, stereotyping and prejudice, and group identity, conflict and violence. Course was offered Spring 2010 | |
| PLAP 3160 | Politics of Food (3) |
| This course looks at the production and consumption of food in a political context. We will explore legislation, regulation, and other policies that affect the food system and examine their implications for the environment, public health and democratic politics. We will look closely at controversies over agricultural subsidies, labeling requirements, farming practices, food safety, advertising and education. Course was offered January 2025, Summer 2024, Spring 2024, January 2024, Summer 2023, January 2023, Summer 2022, Spring 2022, Janiuary 2022, Summer 2021, January 2021, Summer 2020, January 2020, Summer 2019, January 2019, Summer 2018, January 2018, Summer 2017, January 2017, Summer 2016, January 2016, January 2015, January 2014, Summer 2013, January 2013, Summer 2012, January 2012, January 2011 | |
| PLAP 3190 | Judicial Process and Policy-Making (3) |
| Survey of empirical and, to a lesser extent, normative questions concerning actors and institutions in American judicial politics. Topics include the selection of judges, judicial decision making, the legal profession, the impact of court decisions, and the role of judges in a democracy. Prerequisite: PLAP 1010 or permission of instructor. Course was offered Summer 2020, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Fall 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2010, Spring 2010 | |
| PLAP 3210 | Political Parties and Group Politics (3) |
| Introduces the roles of parties, interest groups, public opinion, and elections in democratic government. Course was offered Summer 2018, Summer 2015 | |
| PLAP 3270 | Public Opinion and American Democracy (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | This course examines public opinion and its place in American democracy. We study the psychological and political roots of citizens' opinions, as well as the relationship between public opinion and political campaigns, the media, and government. This class replaces PLAP 2270 there fore you will not get credit for the course twice. Course was offered Fall 2023, Fall 2021, Fall 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Fall 2015, Spring 2015 |
| PLAP 3310 | American Presidency (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Examines the power, purposes, and problematics of the presidency as a role of national leadership in the American and political constitutional system. While the emphasis is on the modern presidency (1933-present), attention is given to its historical development. Prerequisite: Two courses in PLAP, or instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2022, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Fall 2013, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Spring 2011, Spring 2010 |
| PLAP 3340 | Race and Gender in U.S. Politics (3) |
| Scrutinizes the political analogy of race and gender in politics in the United States. Examines how race and gender have each in turn shaped public opinion, public policies, political actions like voting, campaigns, and representation, especially since the 1960s. | |
| PLAP 3350 | American Congress (3) |
| Focuses on the contemporary organization and workings of the United States Congress. Emphasizes elections, the committee system, political parties, staff, and the law-making process, as well as the role of Congress in the national policy making system. Course was offered Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2016, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Fall 2011, Summer 2010, Spring 2010 | |
| PLAP 3370 | Workshop in Contemporary American Electoral Politics (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Provides students with the opportunity to be directly involved with the research, programming, operations, and outreach of the University's non-profit, non-partisan Center for Politics. Includes projects focused on state and national politics, political history, civic engagement, voter behavior, media and politics, campaign finance and political analysis. Prerequisite: instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLAP 3400 | American Political Economy (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | This course explores the historical development of the American economic system since the Founding, and its relationship with political institutions. We will examine various economic regimes such as mercantilism, Progressivism, the welfare state, and neoliberalism, among others. While some basic economic principles will occasionally be drawn upon, no previous knowledge of economics is required for the course. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018 |
| PLAP 3410 | State and Local Politics (3) |
| Investigates the political dynamics of subnational political institutions, parties, and elections. Includes state parties and elections, intergovernmental relations and institutional powers, representation and democracy in federal systems, and subnational policy processes. Prerequisite: One course in PLAP or instructor permission. | |
| PLAP 3420 | Virginia Government and Politics (3) |
| Course will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the structure, functions and processes of state and local government in Virginia and to introduce students to political leaders and policymakers of state government. When the course is finished, students should be able to answer journalist Guy Friddell's query: "What is it about Virginia?" Course was offered January 2025, January 2024, January 2023, Janiuary 2022, January 2020, January 2019, January 2018, January 2017, January 2016, January 2015, January 2014, January 2013, January 2012 | |
| PLAP 3440 | Urban Government and Politics (3) |
| Urban Government and Politics | |
| PLAP 3500 | Special Topics in American Politics (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Topical offerings in American Politics Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, January 2024, Fall 2023, Summer 2023, Spring 2023, January 2023, Fall 2022, Summer 2022, Summer 2021, Spring 2021, January 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, January 2019, Spring 2018, January 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, January 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Summer 2011, January 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLAP 3510 | Minority Group Politics (3) |
| Examines the problems and politics of minority groups in the United States. Studies both the theoretical and practical aspects of minority group politics, including their comparative experience in the U.S. Prerequisite: Any course in PLAP or instructor permission. | |
| PLAP 3610 | Introduction to Public Administration (3) |
| Studies the role of public administration in contemporary government, emphasizing administrative structure, control, and relations with other branches of government. Prerequisite: PLAP 1010, PLCP 1010, or instructor permission. | |
| PLAP 3650 | Gender Politics (3) |
| Examines the legal and political status of women, and the politics of changes in that status. How are gender identities forged, and how do they affect law, public policy, political rhetoric, and political movement? Explores, more generally, the clash between 'difference' and 'equality' in democratic societies, using gender as a case-study. Prerequisite: Two social science courses or instructor permission. | |
| PLAP 3700 | Racial Politics (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Examines how attributions of racial difference have shaped American Politics. Topics include how race affects American political partisanship, campaigns and elections, public policy, public opinion, and American political science. Prerequisite: One course in PLAP or instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Summer 2011, Fall 2010 |
| PLAP 3810 | Constitutional Interpretation: Separation of Powers and Federalism (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Studies the legislative, executive, and judicial branches and the functional and territorial distribution of powers as reflected by Supreme Court decisions. Includes the nature of the judicial process. (No CR/NC enrollees.) Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLAP 3820 | Civil Liberties and Civil Rights (3) |
| Studies judicial construction and interpretation of civil rights and liberties reflected by Supreme Court decisions. Includes line-drawing between rights and obligations. (No CR/NC enrollees.) Course was offered Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLAP 4120 | Electoral Behavior and Political Participation (3) |
| Surveys current theories and research on electoral behavior, including political participation, partisanship, voting behavior, and the impact of electoral institutions. Prerequisite: PLAP 2270. | |
| PLAP 4140 | Gender and American Political Behavior (3) |
| A survey of the way gender ideas shape political behavior in the American political system, historically and today. Prerequisite: one course in WGS or American political behavior (PLAP 2270, 3140, 3150, 4120, 4150, 4360). Course was offered Summer 2024, Summer 2023, Summer 2022, Summer 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Summer 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Summer 2016, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Summer 2012, Summer 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLAP 4150 | Political Psychology (3) |
| A seminar introducing students to the study of political psychology. Topics include authoritarianism, tolerance, altruism, ethnocentrism, the role of affect and cognition in political choice, the role of racial stereotyping in political campaigns, and psychological challenges to rational choice models of political decision-making. Prerequisite: One course in PLAP or instructor permission. | |
| PLAP 4155 | Emotion and American Politics (3) |
| Explores the often-neglected role of emotion in shaping citizens' political thought and action. While the Western enlightenment tradition generally treats emotion and cognition as antithetical, psychological research suggests they are in fact intimately interconnected. We will explore the nature of emotion and its interconnections with American politics and political behavior. Prerequisites: At least one course in PLAP. | |
| PLAP 4180 | Political Advertising and American Democracy (3) |
| Explores the role of political advertising in American democracy. Examines ad messages as strategic political communications, analyzing both classic and contemporary ads. Explores the effects (if any) of political advertising on citizens' attitudes and behavior. Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2013, Spring 2012 | |
| PLAP 4330 | Refoundings in American Politics (3) |
| This course examines the major reform movements in American history, from the Founding to the New Deal. Special attention will be devoted to the intellectual history of reform periods and to answering the question whether the social contract has been redefined periodically in American political history. Prerequisites: At least one course in PLAP. | |
| PLAP 4340 | American Political Leadership (3) |
| Studies the theory and practice of political leadership at the national level with comparisons to state, local, and foreign government. Includes leadership in different institutional and policy settings, techniques of leadership, types of leaders, bargaining among leaders, experience of specific leaders, and conditions and opportunities of leadership. Prerequisite: PLAP 1010 or instructor permission. Crosslisted with PPOL 4750 | |
| PLAP 4360 | Campaigns and Elections (3) |
| Reviews and analyzes the techniques and technologies of modern American election campaigns. Enrollment is limited. Prerequisite: Instructor permission. | |
| PLAP 4410 | Development of the American Party System (3) |
| Focuses on the development of the political party system in the United States, from the late 18th Century through the present day. Examines why political parties emerged in the U.S., both in Congress and at the mass level; why particular parties like the Federalists and Whigs collapsed; and how different "party systems" have developed historically. Course was offered Spring 2020 | |
| PLAP 4420 | The Kennedy Half Century (3) |
| Political power is created in many ways, such as winning an election, facing down an enemy, or skillfully riding the waves of popular opinion. This class will examine the multi-faceted, political and social legacies of John F. Kennedy, along with the other nine occupants of the Oval Office since. Students will learn why and how political legacies are formed; how such influence persists; and whether/how it is will continue. Course was offered Fall 2017 | |
| PLAP 4450 | Virginia Elections and Politics (3) |
| This course will expose students to the scholarly literature on Virginia elections and the election data associated with these elections. Students will critically review the literature and use of a variety of analytical techniques, including GIS mapping software, to analyze both historical and recent elections in Virginia.Prior GIS expertise is not required for this course, but an elementary mastery of election data analysis and GIS mapping skill.
Prerequisite: Instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2022, Spring 2021, Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, January 2011, January 2010 | |
| PLAP 4500 | Special Topics in American Politics (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Investigates a selected issue in American government or American political development. Prerequisite: One course in PLAP or instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Janiuary 2022, Fall 2021, Summer 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLAP 4600 | Voting Rights and Representation (3) |
| Studies empirical and normative issues of representative government, with special attention to what is meant by representation, what constitutes fair representation, and what institutions can best promote fair representation. Prerequisite: Two courses in Politics or permission of instructor. | |
| PLAP 4601 | Democracy in America (3) |
| Democracy in America Course was offered Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLAP 4710 | Values, Resources, and Public Policy (3) |
| Examines the political, economic, and ethical content of enduring domestic policy issues. Prerequisite: Any course in PLA, economics, or philosophy, or instructor permission. | |
| PLAP 4800 | Politics of the Environment (3) |
| Examines environmental issues that originate in, and that affect, the United States, including most forms of pollution and natural resource depletion. Focuses on how political processes, economic factors, and social/cultural constructs affect environmental policymaking. Cross listed with ETP 4800. Prerequisite: Course in ETP, Environmental Sciences or Politics. | |
| PLAP 4805 | American Political Development (3) |
| This courses studies political change and development of key institutions in American politics, including the presidency, courts, and Congress but also the development of the welfare state, the administrative state, the carceral state, and political parties and interest groups. Key themes include the role of the state in shaping citizens, the rise and fall of issues on the agenda, and the role of race in America's exceptional development. Prerequisites: At leat one course in PLAP. Course was offered Spring 2014, Summer 2013 | |
| PLAP 4810 | Class, Race, and the Environment (3) |
| Focuses on the intersections among class, race and the environment. The course goals are to achieve an understanding of central environmental policy issues, to consider what 'class' and 'race' mean, and to examine the distribution of environmental hazards across people of different classes and races. (Cross listed with ETP 4810) | |
| PLAP 4830 | First Amendment (3) |
| Examines the constitutional law of the first amendment from the founding of the United States to the present. Considers and analyzes Supreme Court decisions and scholarly works. Prerequisite: PLAP 3820 or fourth-year government major. | |
| PLAP 4841 | Seminar in Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (3) |
| Explores the vexatious lines between the rights of individuals and those of the state in democratic society, focusing on such major issues as freedom of expression and worship; separation of church and state; criminal justice; the suffrage; privacy; and racial and gender discrimination. Focuses on the judicial process. Prerequisite: Instructor permission. | |
| PLAP 4850 | Seminar on Constitutional Law and Theory (3) |
| An examination of classic and contemporary theories, partial theories, and perspectives on constitutional interpretation. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLAP 4920 | Judicial Policymaking (3) |
| Examines the structure and process of judicial policymaking, focusing on agenda-setting, deciding cases and opinion writing, implementation, compliance, and impact. Particular attention is given to the United States Supreme Court and its relationship to lower federal and state courts and the political environment. Prerequisite: Nine credits in PLAP and instructor permission. | |
| PLAP 4990 | Honors Core Seminar in American Politics (9) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | A critical analysis of important issues and works in American politics from diverse perspectives. Students are required to write weekly analytical essays and actively participate in small seminar discussions on issues including: the founding, parties and elections, public policy, federalism, the presidency, Congress, and the judicial system. Prerequisite: Admission to Politics Honors Program. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Spring 2011, Spring 2010 |
| PLAP 4999 | Senior Thesis (3) |
| Supervised work on a thesis in American politics for especially motivated students. Prerequisite: Three courses in PLAP and instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013 | |
| PLAP 5430 | Intergovernmental Relations (3) |
| Analyzes the contemporary relations of national, state, and local governments. Examines urban and metropolitan growth problems and their implications for public policy and administration in relation to the federal system. Prerequisite: Six credits of PLAP or fourth-year standing. | |
| PLAP 5460 | The Politics of the Budgetary Process (3) |
| This course examines the politics and processes of federal budgeting, and the role the budget plays in national economic policy making. Topics covered include the historical development of the budget and fiscal policy; the creation of the executive budget; the politics of the budgetary process through appropriations, entitlements, and tax policy; and the relationship between fiscal and monetary policy. Crosslisted with PPOL 5460 Course was offered Spring 2021, Spring 2019, Fall 2017, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2012, Spring 2011, Fall 2009 | |
| PLAP 5500 | Special Topics in American Politics (3) |
| Investigates a selected issue in American government or American political development. | |
| PLAP 5526 | Special Topics in Public Policy or Public Administration (3) |
| Intensive analysis of selected issues in public policy or public administration. Prerequisite: Any PLA course or instructor permission. | |
| PLAP 5993 | Selected Problems in American Politics (1 - 3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Independent study under faculty supervision, for students who are preparing for intensive research on a specific topic. Prerequisite: Instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, January 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLAP 6500 | Selected Topics in American Politics (3) |
| Investigates a special problem of American Politics such as political corruption, religion and politics, science and politics, or the nature of justice Course was offered Spring 2016, Spring 2015 | |
| PLAP 7000 | American Politics Core Seminar (3) |
| This graduate core seminar is an introduction to the main topics in the study of American politics, including behavior, institutions, and American political development | |
| PLAP 7010 | American Political Institutions (3) |
| Provides a general introduction to the field of American political institutions. It is structured as a 'survey' course, providing both an overview of classic works and coverage of important new research in this subfield. Course was offered Spring 2020, Spring 2018, Spring 2016, Fall 2014, Spring 2013, Fall 2011, Spring 2010 | |
| PLAP 7020 | American Political Development (3) |
| This seminar will critically examine both classic and current scholarship in American Political Development (APD) -- a sub-field of American Politics that explores the deep historical roots of politics and government in the United States. Although a diverse field with ties to other sub-fields and disciplines, APD scholarship is united by a concern to explore systematically the deep historical roots of politics and government in the United States. | |
| PLAP 7030 | American Public Opinion (3) |
| An introduction to the political science literature on public opinion, with attention to theories of opinion formation and attitude change; the measurement of public opinion; stereotypes and attitudes involving race, gender, and ethnicity; media and political communication; campaigns and voting behavior. | |
| PLAP 7410 | Survey of State and Local Government (3) |
| Readings and research on the institutions, processes, and interrelationships of state, local, and governmental units smaller than national in scope. | |
| PLAP 7440 | Social Policy and the Politics of Inequality in the United States (3) |
| Investigates the political development of the American welfare state and offers competing perspectives on the causes and consequences of inequality in the United States. Examines how and why our social safety net is unique from other nations, public beliefs about income inequality and support for antipoverty measures, the implications of inequality for participation and influence, as well as consider several specific policies. Course was offered Spring 2012, Spring 2010 | |
| PLAP 7500 | Special Topics in American Politics (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Intensive analysis of selected issues and concepts in American politics. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Spring 2017, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2012, Spring 2011 |
| PLAP 7600 | Public Administration (3) |
| General introduction to public administration at the graduate level, emphasizing the political and ecological influences upon it, the problems of internal organization and management, and the problems and methods of innovation and change. | |
| PLAP 7770 | Groups in the Political Processes (3) |
| A critical survey of the roles of groups in the American political system. Course was offered Fall 2018 | |
| PLAP 8210 | The American Presidency (3) |
| Readings and research on special problems of the American political and administrative system that come to a focus in the presidency or arise out of the manifold responsibilities of the president. | |
| PLAP 8220 | The Party System and the Conduct of Government (3) |
| Readings and research, emphasizing the functions of parties in the conduct of government, and the evolution of the party system in response to changes in the broader economic, social, and political environment. Course was offered Spring 2011 | |
| PLAP 8250 | The American Congress (3) |
| Studies the legislative process in the U.S. Congress. Topics include the internal distribution of power, influences on legislative behavior, congressional relationships with other political institutions, the place of Congress in the American polity, and the problems associated with it. Course was offered Fall 2022, Spring 2014 | |
| PLAP 8410 | Development of the American Party System (3) |
| Focuses on the development of the political party system in the United States, from the late 18th Century through the present day. Examines why political parties emerged in the U.S., both in Congress and at the mass level; why particular parties like the Federalists and Whigs collapsed; and how different "party systems" have developed historically. | |
| PLAP 8440 | Urban Politics (3) |
| Studies patterns of power and influence in urban decision-making. Topics include social, economic, and other factors influencing urban political institutions; patterns of leadership and political behavior in central cities and suburbs; issues of the exploding metropolis, including urban renewal, finances, transportation, education, reform, and state and federal intervention; and methodological problems. | |
| PLAP 8500 | Special Topics in American Politics (3) |
| Special Topics in American Politics | |
| PLAP 8583 | Topics in Public Law (3) |
| Topics in Public Law Course was offered Spring 2012, Spring 2011 | |
| PLAP 8610 | Seminar in Public Administration (3) |
| Readings and research in public administration theory and practice and contemporary administrative problems. | |
| PLAP 8840 | Seminar in Civil Rights and Liberties (3) |
| Explores the vexatious lines between the rights of individuals and those of the state in democratic society, focusing on such major issues as freedom of expression and worship; separation of church and state; criminal justice; the suffrage; privacy; and racial and gender discrimination. Focuses on the judicial process. Prerequisite: Instructor permission. Course was offered Spring 2013 | |
| PLAP 8850 | American Constitutional Law and Theory Seminar (3) |
| Examines the nature and parameters of the judicial function, focusing on law courts and jurists, with an emphasis on the political role of the Supreme Court of the United States. Prerequisite: Instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2011, Spring 2010 | |
| PLAP 8998 | Non-Topical Research, Preparation for Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For master's research, taken before a thesis director has been selected. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010 |
| PLAP 8999 | Non-Topical Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For master's thesis, taken under the supervision of a thesis director. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLAP 9998 | Non-Topical Research, Preparation for Doctoral Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For doctoral research, taken before a dissertation director has been selected. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLAP 9999 | Non-Topical Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For doctoral dissertation, taken under the supervision of a dissertation director. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| Politics-Comparative Politics | |
| PLCP 1010 | Introduction to Comparative Politics (3) |
| Introduction to Comparative Politics surveys the major themes, theories, and methods of domestic politics around the globe in the modern era. Thematically, we examine the gap between rich and poor nations, between democracies and dictatorships, and between civil war and civic orders. Theoretically, we consider theories of political culture, political institutions, and political economy. | |
| PLCP 1500 | Topics Comparative Politics (3) |
| Topics courses within Comparative Politics Course was offered Spring 2016, Spring 2015 | |
| PLCP 2110 | Italy and European Politics (3) |
| This course explores the dynamics of Italian and European politics since the end of the Second World War. The main focus of the course is to look at specific political institutions (such as the party system, the Parliament, the Executive, the Courts, etc.) at both Italian and European levels. Political culture and the territorial distribution of power are also investigated. Course was offered Fall 2010 | |
| PLCP 2420 | Politics of Modernity (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Introduces key analytical concepts used by Karl Marx, Max Weber, and Emile Durkeim in their analysis of how the development of modern society has shaped the nature of modern politics. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2010 |
| PLCP 2500 | Special Topics in Comparative Politics (3) |
| Special Topics in Comparative Politics. Course was offered Summer 2024, Summer 2023, Summer 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2018, Fall 2015, Summer 2011, Summer 2010 | |
| PLCP 2600 | Rise and Fall of the Soviet Union (3) |
| This course is about Russia and the Soviet Union. It is designed to explore some of this country's major political themes of the twentieth century through an understanding of Russia's history, culture and politics. Course was offered Summer 2024, Summer 2023, Summer 2022, Summer 2020, Summer 2019, Summer 2018, Summer 2017, Summer 2016, Summer 2015, Summer 2014, Summer 2013, Summer 2012 | |
| PLCP 3000 | Gender and International Development (3) |
| Socio-economic development is universally applauded, but its consequences are uneven and often unintended. Women and men do not play the same roles in development nor are they affected in the same ways. In this course, we examinee the meaning of development and why it is controversial, paying particular attention to the ways in which men and women are affected differently by development process. | |
| PLCP 3012 | The Politics of Developing Areas (3) |
| Surveys patterns of government and politics in non-Western political systems. Topics include political elites, sources of political power, national integration, economic development, and foreign penetration. This class replaces PLCP 2120 therefore you will not get credit for the course twice. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Fall 2017, Fall 2016 | |
| PLCP 3020 | Modern Political Thought (3) |
| Examines the major theorists and theories of the modern period, with a concentration on the development of the liberal tradition and important critics of liberalism, with a special focus on the nature and meaning of freedom. Main authors covered are Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Bentham, Mill, and Marx. | |
| PLCP 3110 | The Politics of Western Europe (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Surveys developments since 1945 in democratic stability, party politics, and political economy in the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Course was offered Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010 |
| PLCP 3120 | Politics and Political Economy of the Welfare State (3) |
| This seminar investigates the origins, expansion, and stabilization (or crisis - take your pick) of the welfare state in the rich OECD countries (North America, Western Europe, Japan, Australia and New Zealand) focussing on why market and non-market based systems of social protection emerged and the roles played by states, labor market actors, and women's groups. Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2013, Spring 2011 | |
| PLCP 3125 | Politics in Britain and America: a Comparative Perspective (3) |
| This course will provide an introduction to the comparative politics of the US and the UK. Attention will be given to similarities as well as differences, and the course will use comparative analysis to throw light on the political systems in both countries. Occasional reference will be made to other countries. No prior knowledge of British politics will be assumed, but prior knowledge of US politics will be. | |
| PLCP 3130 | Political Economy of Development (3) |
| Examines the political prerequisites (and impediments) to economic development, focusing on agricultural exporters in the 19th century and manufactured goods exporters in the 20th century. Draws on empirical material from North and South American, Europe, Asia and Africa. Prerequisite: PLIR 2050 or instructor permission. Course was offered Summer 2024, Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Fall 2012, Fall 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLCP 3170 | Development,Conflict, and Democracy in Latin America (3) |
| Development, Conflict, and Democracy in Latin America | |
| PLCP 3210 | Russian Politics (3) |
| Analyzes the political system of the former USSR and Russia from 1917 to the present. Focuses on evolution of the Soviet state, modernization and social change, efforts to reform the system, the collapse of the USSR, as well as the economic and political transformation taking place in the newly independent states. Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or history of Russia. Course was offered Spring 2023, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Spring 2011, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLCP 3240 | Post Soviet Political Challenges (3) |
| This course compares the origins and consequences of the rise of nationalism, separatism, secessions, and irredentist claims in the Russian Federation and other former Soviet republics, at the end of the Cold War. Prerequisite: one class in PLCP or permission of instructor. Course was offered Janiuary 2022, January 2021, January 2020, January 2019, January 2018, January 2017, January 2016, January 2015, January 2014, January 2013, January 2012, Summer 2011, January 2011, January 2010 | |
| PLCP 3330 | Politics of Latin America (3) |
| This course provides an overview of politics in Latin America. Topics include the organization of the New World colonies, the legacies of the colonial period for development, the nature of political competition in Latin America's newly independent states, import-substituting industrialization and populism, the emergence and eclipse of military regimes, the transition to democracy and free markets, and the performance of democracy. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2018 | |
| PLCP 3350 | Gender Politics in Comparative Perspective (3) |
| Focuses on the state and how power is gendered in the developing world. Topics include feminist methods and concepts, women in the military, nationalism, women's movements, quotas, citizenship and globalization. Cross-listed with SWAG 3350. | |
| PLCP 3410 | Politics of the Middle East and North Africa (3) |
| Introduces contemporary political systems of the region stretching from Morocco to Iran. Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or history of the Middle East. Course was offered Summer 2023, Summer 2022, Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Fall 2011, Fall 2009 | |
| PLCP 3500 | Special Topics in Comparative Politics (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Analysis of selected issues and concepts in comparative politics. Course was offered Fall 2024, Summer 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Summer 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Summer 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013 |
| PLCP 3559 | New Course in Comparative Politics (1 - 4) |
| This course provides the opportunity to offer new topics in the subject of Comparative Politics. | |
| PLCP 3610 | Chinese Politics (3) |
| General introduction to Chinese politics in its societal context. Conveys a concrete appreciation of China's societal reality and how it interacts with the political system. Covers China's changing role in Asia and the world. Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or the history of China. Course was offered Spring 2024, Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Fall 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLCP 3630 | Politics in India and Pakistan (3) |
| Surveys political development in India and Pakistan examining the process of nation-building, the causes of democratization and authoritarian rule, the development of ethnic and religious conflict, environmental politics, the political impact of cultural globalization, and gender-related political issues. Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or study of history and society in South Asia. | |
| PLCP 4050 | Origins of Legal Systems (3) |
| This course examines the origins of the common and civil law systems in Europe, and the relevance of such origins for contemporary issues. It aims to offer a fuller historical understanding of how these systems emerged in medieval Europe, so as to allow a critical perspective on the important modern theoretical literature, that of Legal Origins. Prerequisites: At least on PLIR course. | |
| PLCP 4060 | State-Emergence and State-Building (3) |
| The course examines the historical foundations of modern theories in social science on state-building. Most assumptions in the contemporary literature are explicitly or implicitly predicated on an understanding of the historical experience of the west. This understanding is often deeply flawed, leading to erroneous models and flawed assumptions in the scholarship on political development. Course was offered Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLCP 4110 | Seminar on European Politics (3) |
| In-depth analysis of the institutional structures and policy processes of selected political systems in Europe today. Focuses on legislatures, political executives, administrative bureaucracies and their interrelationships as they effect policymaking and policy implementation. Prerequisite: Graduate status or instructor permission. | |
| PLCP 4111 | States and Markets (3) |
| The course begins with an introduction to texts of classical liberal political economy and then examines both historical and theoretical scholarship on the emergence of markets in Europe from the Middle Ages to the twentieth century. A revisionist view of the role of the state in the emergence of markets then informs a consideration of contemporary cases. | |
| PLCP 4130 | Capitalisms Compared (3) |
| How does state intervention differ in the three largest advanced industrial economies? Do these differences matter? Does one country have a decisive 'competitive edge'? This course tries to answer these questions by looking at how variations in the institutions and processes the state uses to regulate the economy affect labor productivity, technological innovation, and thus ultimately international competitiveness. | |
| PLCP 4140 | Democracy and Dictatorship (3) |
| Surveys and critically evaluates theories of origins of democratic and authoritarian governments, and the causes of subsequent transitions to, and away from, democratic regimes. Prerequisite: One course in PLCP or instructor permission. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2013, Spring 2012, Spring 2011 | |
| PLCP 4150 | Comparative Public Policy (3) |
| Explores why policies on issues like health care, social welfare, education, and immigration differ markedly from nation to nation, focusing on how contrasting cultures, state institutions, and societal organizations shape the historical trajectory of public policies. The primary focus of the course is on policies in advanced industrialized nations such as Britain, the U.S., Japan, and Sweden.
Prerequisites: Prior course work in American and/or comparative politics is required. Course was offered Fall 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2011, Summer 2010, Spring 2010 | |
| PLCP 4160 | Rationality and Collective Action (3) |
| Collective action, that is, the ability of individuals to coalesce in groups with some common purpose, is at the heart of most political phenomena from social movements and revolutions, to lobbying and voting. In this course we shall engage critically different theoretical approaches to this topic placing special, but far from exclusive, emphasis on the rational-choice paradigm and the criticisms it has received. | |
| PLCP 4180 | Politics of the Holocaust (3) |
| An introduction of major competing explanations for the Nazi genocide of Europe's Jews, and critical consideration of those theories. Also examines other major genocides of the 20th century. | |
| PLCP 4200 | Comparative Legislatures (3) |
| Examines how and why legislators and legislative parties make the decisions they do. Compares legislative decision-making processes and outcomes in a variety of institutional settings. Prerequisite: At least two courses at the 3000 level in American politics and/or comparative politics. Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, Fall 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Fall 2012 | |
| PLCP 4201 | Comparative Political Parties (3) |
| Examines political parties in a variety of institutional and socioeconomic settings, focusing on parties in the democratic political systems of Europe, the United States, and Japan. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Fall 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2016, Spring 2013, Spring 2012 | |
| PLCP 4220 | Comparative Budgeting and Economic Policy (3) |
| Comparative Budgeting and Economic Policy | |
| PLCP 4250 | Politics of Economic Reform (3) |
| A wave of economic change has swept across countries from Argentina to Zimbabwe over the last 15 years. The unfolding of these changes has been structured by and, in turn, has shaped the politics of the countries in which they have occurred. Formulates an analytical framework for understanding the politics of economic reform. Studies cases in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe. Prerequisite: Previous course in PLCP, PLIR, or economics is recommended. Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Fall 2009 | |
| PLCP 4260 | Origins of Legal Systems (3) |
| Political scientists and economists have explored the importance of legal systems for economic and political development, especially for property rights and institutions. But the causal logic of such theories is marred by a poor understanding of the origins and preconditions of legal systems. Course compares the historical origins of common and civil law traditions in medieval Europe, to offer better microfoundations for these theories. | |
| PLCP 4400 | Institutions and Democracy in Latin America (3) |
| This course examines the causes and consequences of variation in democratic institutional structure in contemporary Latin America. We study how institutions such as presidentialism, electoral rules, federalism, party systems, and the legal system contribute to outcomes such as political instability, legislative representation, clientelism and corruption, citizen security, and overall support for democracy. Prerequisite: prior course in PLCP. Course was offered Spring 2014, Spring 2010 | |
| PLCP 4410 | Nation Building in Iraq (3) |
| Intensive study of America's role in the political and economic reconstruction of Iraq after the fall of Saddam Hussein. Analysis of the nation-building project in historical (earlier efforts at Iraqi nation-building) and comparative (earlier American efforts at occupation-based nation-building) perspective. Course was offered Summer 2018, Summer 2017, Summer 2016, Summer 2015, Summer 2014, January 2012, January 2011, January 2010 | |
| PLCP 4412 | The Idea of Development (3) |
| Offers a historical survey of how the idea of development that crystallized during the European enlightenment became "hegemonic" after WWII and during the process of de-colonization. Also reflects on how development came to express the ideological struggles of the cold war and whether it acquired a "new life" in the aftermath of the collapse of communism and the advent of "globalization." Prerequisites: prior course in PLCP. Course was offered Spring 2014 | |
| PLCP 4430 | Politics of Corruption (3) |
| An examination of the causes and consequences of corruption around the world. Assesses the impact of corruption on political and economic development and explores the relationship between corruption and factors such as culture, institutions, economic policies, and natural resources. Prerequisite: PLCP 1010, PLCP 2120 or permission of instructor | |
| PLCP 4440 | Culture and Human Rights (3) |
| Disagreement over culture and human rights is intense. At its worst, this controversy has led cultural conservatives in the Global South to label human rights as imperialist, cultural conservatives in the Global North to reject minority rights as threats to national unity and social democrats, feminists and sexuality rights activists to attack culture as irredeemably retrograde and oppressive. | |
| PLCP 4500 | Special Topics in Comparative Politics (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Intensive analysis of selected issues and concepts in comparative government. Prerequisite: One course in PLCP or instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLCP 4652 | Markets, Inequality, and the Politics of Development (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Examination of how politics affects the historical development of markets and the impact of inequality on the development of markets and economic development more generally. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Spring 2011 |
| PLCP 4660 | States and Markets: History and Theory (3) |
| Analysis of the historical and conceptual foundations of theories of the relation of states and markets. Questions the historical accounts and liberal assumptions of western development that shape social science, with the aim of providing a more analytical understanding of contemporary theories. Readings range from a close reading of Adam Smith to a historical study of European economic development to approaches to the developing world. | |
| PLCP 4810 | Politics of Sub-Saharan Africa (3) |
| Studies the government and politics of sub-Saharan Africa. Includes the colonial experience and the rise of African nationalism; the transition to independence; the rise and fall of African one-party states; the role of the military in African politics; the politics of ethnicity, nation- and state-building; patromonialism and patron-client relations; development problems faced by African regimes, including relations with external actors; and the political future of Southern Africa. Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or history of Africa. Course was offered Spring 2020, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Fall 2011, Spring 2011, Spring 2010 | |
| PLCP 4840 | Gender Politics in Africa (3) |
| Investigates the ways social structures and institutions shape gender in sub-Saharan Africa, with an emphasis on the state. Topics include gender in the pre-colonial and colonial era, contemporary African women's movements, women in politics, development, HIV/AIDS and sexuality. | |
| PLCP 4990 | Honors Core Seminar in Comparative Politics (9) |
| A critical analysis of important issues and works in comparative politics from diverse perspectives. Students are required to write weekly analytical essays and actively participate in small seminar discussions on issues including: democratic and authoritarian regimes, political economy of development, and ethnic and religious conflict. Prerequisite: Admission to Politics Honors Program | |
| PLCP 4999 | Senior Thesis (3) |
| Supervised work on a thesis in comparative politics for especially motivated students. Prerequisite: Three courses in PLCP and instructor permission. Course was offered Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2010 | |
| PLCP 5310 | Politics of Latin America (3) |
| Studies the constitutional, political, and administrative systems of the major countries of Latin America, the political implications of economic development and social reform, and nationalist theories of socio-political development. Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or history of Latin America. | |
| PLCP 5330 | Political Parties and Movements in Latin America (3) |
| Studies the origins, activities, and contemporary position of the major political parties and movements in Latin America and Spain, and their relationship to economic development, social reform, and the conduct of government in the principal Latin American states. | |
| PLCP 5350 | Democratic Theory and Democratization in Latin America (3) |
| Investigates the various democratic theories and the democratization process in Latin America. Evaluates these theories and the democratization process in the contemporary global environment. | |
| PLCP 5360 | Role of the Military in Latin America (3) |
| Studies the impact of the military on government and society, the conditions effecting military intervention against constitutional governments, and the circumstances in which military intervention occurs and is likely to occur in Latin America and Spain. Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or history of Latin America. | |
| PLCP 5410 | Islam and Democracy in the Middle East (3) |
| Studies the prospects for democratic transitions in Middle Eastern states, emphasizing the role of Islamic political movements. Prerequisite: PLCP 3410 or equivalent. Course was offered Spring 2011 | |
| PLCP 5500 | Special Topics (3) |
| Special Topics in Comparative Politics | |
| PLCP 5550 | Causal Inference in Comparative Politics (3) |
| Provides a framework for conducting causal inference in comparative research. Research methods considered include: laboratory experiments, field experiments, matching, instrumental variables, and difference-in-difference techniques. The role of formal model building as a guide to causal explanation in the social sciences is also emphasized. Prerequisite: once course in statistics at the level of PLAD 7100 or by permission of instructor. | |
| PLCP 5610 | Politics of China (3) |
| Studies the structure and process of the Chinese political system, emphasizing political culture, socio-economic development, and political socialization. Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or history of China. | |
| PLCP 5993 | Selected Problems in Comparative Politics (1 - 3) |
| Independent study, under faculty supervision, for intensive research on a specific topic. Prerequisite: Instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLCP 6735 | Politics and Policymaking in European Union (3) |
| This graduate course offers an introduction to the history, institutions and politics of the European Union, with an emphasis on policymaking in the EU today. First, the class will review the process of European integration and enlargement since the Treaty of Paris in 1951, including a review of the major theories of European integration. Second, the structure and function of the EU institutions will be introduced. Prerequisites: Graduate Student | |
| PLCP 7000 | Comparative Politics Core Seminar (3) |
| Comparative Politics Core Seminar | |
| PLCP 7070 | Identity and the State (3) |
| What are identity politics, where do identity claims come from, and what is the relationship between identity and the state? To answer these questions this course investigates how identity categories are constructed and politicized, and then analyzes their relationship to social policy. Case studies include India, South Africa, Brazil, and the United States. | |
| PLCP 7500 | Special Topics in Comparative Politics (3) |
| Special Topics in Comparative Politics Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010 | |
| PLCP 7559 | New Course in Comparative Politics (1 - 4) |
| This course provides the opportunity to offer a new topic in the subject area of Comparative Politics. Course was offered Fall 2016 | |
| PLCP 8060 | Formation of the Modern State in Europe (3) |
| Intensive analysis of classic and contemporary statements, both theoretical and historical, of the rise of the modern state in Europe, from medieval period to French Revolution. Emphasis on role of economic transformation and war on political change. | |
| PLCP 8061 | Post-Colonial Political Development (3) |
| Examination of major theoretical statements of causes of state-building in the post-colonial world, 1800 - 2000. Case material from Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. | |
| PLCP 8140 | Origins of Democracy and Dictatorship (3) |
| Analyzes the major theories explaining transitions to democratic regimes and their consolidation or reversion to authoritarian regimes. Case material is drawn from the 19th and 20th centuries from all regions of the world. Course was offered Spring 2022, Spring 2019, Fall 2016, Fall 2014, Spring 2013, Summer 2011, Spring 2011 | |
| PLCP 8200 | Comparative Institutions (3) |
| Examines political institutions in democratic and authoritarian regimes. Topics include approaches to studying institutions, the state, federalism, electoral systems, executives, legislative decision-making, delegation to bureaucracies, and judicial institutions. The course also assesses efforts to integrate formal and statistical analysis. Prequisite: a graduate course in PLCP, research methods or permission of instructor. Course was offered Spring 2023, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Fall 2017, Fall 2015, Spring 2014, Fall 2012, Fall 2011 | |
| PLCP 8500 | Special Topics in Comparative Politics (3) |
| Special Topics in Comparative Politics | |
| PLCP 8521 | Topics in the Government and Politics of U.S.S.R. and Eastern Europe (3) |
| Topics in the Government and Politics of U.S.S.R. and Eastern Europe | |
| PLCP 8531 | Topics in the Government and Politics of Latin America (3) |
| Topics in the Government and Politics of Latin America | |
| PLCP 8542 | Topics in the Government and Politics of the Middle East (3) |
| Topics in the Government and Politics of the Middle East | |
| PLCP 8551 | Topics in the Government and Politics of China (3) |
| Topics in the Government and Politics of China | |
| PLCP 8561 | Topics in the Government and Politics of South Asia (3) |
| Studies the development of political and administrative institutions and practices in modern India. | |
| PLCP 8880 | Rational Choice and Democracy (3) |
| Provides a graduate-level survey of the contributions of rational choice analysis and game-theoretic modeling to topics of central concern in the subfield of comparative politics. | |
| PLCP 8998 | Non-Topical Research, Preparation for Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For master's research, taken before a thesis director has been selected. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLCP 8999 | Non-Topical Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For master's thesis, taken under the supervision of a thesis director. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLCP 9998 | Non-Topical Research, Preparation for Doctoral Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For doctoral research, taken before a dissertation director has been selected. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLCP 9999 | Non-Topical Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For doctoral dissertation, taken under the supervision of a dissertation director. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| Politics-International Relations | |
| PLIR 1010 | International Relations (3) |
| Studies the geographic, demographic, economic, and ideological factors conditioning the policies of states, and the methods and institutions of conflict and adjustment among states, including the functions of power, diplomacy, international law and organization. Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Summer 2023, Fall 2022, Summer 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Summer 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLIR 2020 | Foreign Policies of the Powers (3) |
| Comparative analysis of the content and definition of foreign policies of select states in historical and contemporary periods. | |
| PLIR 2030 | International Relations of East Asia (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | An introduction to leading theories in the field of international relations with reference to major events in the history of diplomacy, war, and economic relations in the East Asian region. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Fall 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Summer 2013, Spring 2012, Fall 2009 |
| PLIR 2050 | Introduction to Political Economy (3) |
| Introduces core concepts in political economy, including the institutional bases for states and markets, and the way these interact through the exercise of exit, voice, and collective action. Empirical material drawn from the last five centuries. Course was offered Fall 2024, Summer 2023, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2011, Spring 2011 | |
| PLIR 2500 | Special Topics in International Relations (3) |
| This course covers a variety of topics in the field of Politics and International Relations. | |
| PLIR 2559 | New Course in Politics (3) |
| New Course in Politics | |
| PLIR 3010 | Theories of International Relations (3) |
| A survey of the big ideas and arguments that explain foreign policy and international relations. | |
| PLIR 3060 | Military Force in International Relations (3) |
| Examines the threat and use of military force in international relations. Includes deterrence theory and recent critiques, ethical and international legal considerations, domestic constraints, and the postwar U.S. and Soviet experiences with the use of force. Prerequisite: One course in PLIR or instructor permission. | |
| PLIR 3080 | International Politics in the Nuclear Age (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Considers the impact of nuclear weapons on the relations among states. Prerequisite: One course in PLIR or instructor permission. Course was offered Spring 2024, Fall 2019 |
| PLIR 3110 | International Law: Principles and Politics (3) |
| Investigates international legal rules, how they originate and evolve, their political consequences, and their relationship to morality. Emphasizes the international legal rules governing territoriality, nationality, human rights, and the recourse to armed force. Prerequisite: One course in PLIR or instructor permission. | |
| PLIR 3210 | International Organizations (3) |
| Introduces the nature, functions, and significance of international organizations in international relations. Focuses on the United Nations. Prerequisite: One course in PLIR or instructor permission. | |
| PLIR 3240 | Anti-Terrorism and the Role of Intelligence (3) |
| Course examines the intelligence failures prior to 9/11 and the Iraq war, and the critical reports composed after the events, to determine what improvements may be needed to avoid a recurrence and to pre-empt future terrorist attacks against the United States. | |
| PLIR 3310 | Ethics and Human Rights in World Politics (3) |
| How do issues of human rights and ethical choice operate in the world of states? Do cosmopolitan ideals now hold greater sway among states than traditional ideas of national interests during the Cold War? Considers ideas of philosophers like Thucydides and Kant in addition to concrete cases and dilemmas taken from contemporary international relations. Specific issues include defining human rights, 'humanitarian intervention,' just war theory, and the moral responsibilities of leaders and citizens. Course was offered Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Spring 2011, Spring 2010 | |
| PLIR 3380 | Theories of International Political Economy (3) |
| Examines international conflict and cooperation over economic issues, using a variety of theoretical perspectives. Includes the domestic sources of foreign economic policy and the relationship between economic and military security in the 19th and 20th centuries. Prerequisite: PLIR 2050 or instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2012, Spring 2012 | |
| PLIR 3400 | Foreign Policy of the United States (3) |
| Analyzes major themes in American foreign policy, emphasizing security issues, from World War I through the Nixon administration. Prerequisite: Some background in the field of international relations or in U.S. history. Course was offered Summer 2024, Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLIR 3500 | Special Topics in International Relations (3) |
| Special Topics in International Relations Course was offered Summer 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Summer 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Summer 2021, Spring 2021, January 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, January 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, January 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, January 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, January 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, January 2015, Fall 2014, January 2014, Summer 2013, January 2013, Summer 2012, January 2012, Spring 2010 | |
| PLIR 3559 | New Course in International Relations (1 - 4) |
| This course provides the opportunity to offer new topics in the subject of International Relations. | |
| PLIR 3600 | Political Economy of Asia (3) |
| Political Economy of Asia | |
| PLIR 3610 | European Union in World Affairs (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Examines the content and formulation of foreign policies in Europe and the European Union from the twentieth century to the present. Prerequisite: Some background in international relations or European history. Students who have previously taken PLIR 3620 will not receive credit for PLIR 3610; students who take PLIR 3610 may not receive credit for PLIR 3620 if taken subsequently. Course was offered Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Spring 2021, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLIR 3620 | Politics of the European Union (3) |
| This course will give an overview of the politics of the European Union. Attention will be paid to theoretical approaches to European integration (week 1), the structure of the EU and its constituent institutions (week 2), and finally policies and outcomes, and current topics and debates (week 3). No prior knowledge of the EU will be assumed, but familiarity with core concepts in political science and international relations will be. Students who have previously taken PLIR 3610 will not receive credit for PLIR 3620; students who take PLIR 3620 may not receive credit for PLIR 3610 if taken subsequently. | |
| PLIR 3650 | International Relations of the Middle East (3) |
| Studies the emergence of the contemporary inter-state system in the Middle East; the important role played by outside powers, especially the United States; the effect of the Cold War on the region; the persistent conflict between Israel and its Arab neighbors and the efforts to reach peace; and the difficulty of constructing a stable order in the Persian Gulf. Prerequisite: Some background in international relations or the history of the Middle East. | |
| PLIR 3720 | Terrorism and Political Violence (3) |
| This course introduces students to terrorism as a form of political violence. We will explore the origins of terrorism, the motivations of terrorists, and the tactics that terrorists employ. Finally, we will look closely at state responses in the form of counter-terrorism policy. | |
| PLIR 3750 | South Asia in World Affairs (3) |
| Topics include the international relations of India; factors that condition its foreign policy; relation between internal need for unity, stability and development, and foreign policy; and India as a regional power and as a global leader of nonalignment. Prerequisite: Some background in the field of international relations or in the history of South Asia. | |
| PLIR 3760 | Russia/USSR in World Affairs (3) |
| Surveys the international relations of the Russian state, looking at Imperial legacies, the Soviet era from 1917-85, the Gorbachev era, and post-Soviet problems of Russian foreign policy. Prerequisite: Some background in international relations or the history of Russia. | |
| PLIR 3770 | Russian-American Relations (3) |
| Analyzes Soviet-U.S. and Russian-U.S. relations, with a focus on the post-1945 period; Cold War and contemporary issues. Prerequisite: Some background in international relations or the history of Russia; PLIR 3760 or 3400 recommended. | |
| PLIR 4040 | Nationalism and World Politics (3) |
| Explores the effects of the ideology of nationalism on relations among states and the international system in general, particularly as regards war and conflict. Prerequisite: PLIR 1010, or instructor permission. | |
| PLIR 4150 | Economics and National Security (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Explores the connections between economics and national security from three angles. First, does economic interdependence between nation-states foster a peaceful world, as liberals argue, or does it increase the likelihood of war, as realists contend? Second, what are the economic causes of the rise and decline of great powers? Third, what are the economic roots of great power imperialism against smaller states? Prerequisite: One course in international relations, history, or economics. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012 |
| PLIR 4250 | Nuclear Proliferation and International Relations (3) |
| An examination of the impact of the spread of nuclear weapons on international relations with a particular emphasis on regional situations confronting varying proliferation challenges. Prerequisite: some background in international relations | |
| PLIR 4310 | Global Health and Human Rights (3) |
| Examines global health problems through the lens of human rights norms. Can the human rights movement motivate new approaches to disease prevention and the social determinants of health? The HIV/AIDS pandemic in Africa will be treated in depth. Prerequisites: PLIR 3310, a previous course in public health, or equivalent with instructor permission. | |
| PLIR 4320 | Religion and War (3) |
| This seminar offers an overview of the rapidly-expanding literature on religion and international conflict | |
| PLIR 4330 | Perceptions of America Abroad (3) |
| September 11, 2001, brought heightened interest in how America is perceived abroad. This class examines competing theories of why states should care about how they are percieved by governments and populations in other countries, and then examines evidence concerning both elite and popular perceptions of the U.S. during the Cold War, in the 1990s, including inside Saddam Hussein's regime, and especially since 9/11 in several regions. Prerequisites: At least one course in PLIR. | |
| PLIR 4340 | Feminist Theory in International Relations (3) |
| Examines leading feminist contributions to, and gendered critiques of, theories of international relations including (but not limited to) war, peace and security; international political economy; and international institutions and organizations. | |
| PLIR 4350 | Humanitarian Intervention and International Relations (3) |
| Since the fall of the Berlin wall, humanitarian intervention has been an important talking point and policy decision for governments and intergovernmental institutions globally. In recent months, the United Nations, NATO, the EU and powerful states with the capacity to act unilaterally have debated the merits of intervening in numerous locations including but not limited to Libya, Somalia, and Sudan. Course was offered Spring 2013, Summer 2012 | |
| PLIR 4370 | Space and International Security (3) |
| This course focuses on why and how space matters for national and international security. Prerequisites: A prior course in PLIR or diplomatic history. | |
| PLIR 4380 | America in a World Economy (3) |
| Seminar focusing on politics of the international trade and monetary systems, emphasizing third world industrialization, trade conflicts between the U.S. and Japan, and the global debt crisis. Prerequisite: PLIR 2050 or instructor permission. | |
| PLIR 4381 | Globalization and Development (3) |
| International economic integration creates constraints and opportunities for less developed countries. This course systematically examines these tradeoffs across various dimensions of economic integration and aspects of development. Analysis of these tradeoffs reveals how politics influences choices about economic integration and the ultimate course of economic development and human welfare. Prerequisites: Economics 2010 and Economics 2020. | |
| PLIR 4410 | Political Economy of Foreign Direct Investment (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Examines the political economy of foreign direct investment (FDI) including the determinants of FDI and its economic and political consequences. Prerequisite: ECON 2010 and ECON 2020. Course was offered Spring 2022, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2012, Fall 2010, Spring 2010 |
| PLIR 4420 | Political Economy of Immigration (3) |
| An examination of various explanations of the causes and consequences of global immigration, with an emphasis on political economy theories and models. Prerequisites: A prior course in PLIR. | |
| PLIR 4430 | Empire, Hegemony, Leadership (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Conceives of the international system as hierarchical, and considers how states gain, maintain, and lose predominance; whether hierarchy is necessary to international order; and how hierarchy affects the options of smaller states and other actors. Prerequisites: At least one course in PLIR. |
| PLIR 4431 | Democracy and Foreign Policy (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | This course examines both academic and policy debates about democracy and foreign policy. We begin by reviewing the theory and practice of democracy and the literature on democracy in international politics. |
| PLIR 4440 | Domestic Politics and American Foreign Policy (3) |
| Domestic Politics and American Foreign Policy. Course was offered Spring 2023, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLIR 4450 | The Clash of Ideas in World Politics (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Course considers whether differences over the best societal, regional, or global order affect patterns of conflict and cooperation in international affairs; and if so, how. We emphasize both theory and history.
Requisite: One PLIR course |
| PLIR 4500 | Special Topics in International Relations (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Intensive analysis of selected issues and concepts in international relations. Prerequisite: One course in PLIR or instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2022, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLIR 4610 | Media, Public Opinion, and Foreign Policy (3) |
| This course explores the relationships among media, public opinion, and foreign policy. While it is widely assumed that leaders, and particularly the president, act with a relatively free hand when conducting foreign affairs, the reality is much more complex. Congress can take an active role in foreign policy, but typically only at certain times and issue areas. | |
| PLIR 4760 | International Financial Institutions (3) |
| What are the IFIs and how have they influenced development policy and country outcomes? What factors do internal and external politics play in their operation and the panopoly of international aid efforts? Are groups like "50/60 years in enough" and the Meltzer report right? Come explore IFIs (the IMF, the World Bank, and the Multilateral Development Banks) in a seminar setting examining policy in practice. | |
| PLIR 4800 | International Political Economy of Africa (3) |
| Addresses such topics as colonial legacies and postcolonial dynamics, the nature of the African state, regime change and democratization, regional wars and complex humanitarian crises, the politics of debt and structural adjustment, and the AIDS crisis. Prerequisite: At least one course in economics, African history, political economy/development, African literature. | |
| PLIR 4990 | Honors Core Seminar in International Relations (9) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | A critical analysis of important issues and works in political theory from diverse perspectives. Students are required to write weekly analytical essays and actively participate in small seminar discussions on issues including: theories of common good, economic justice, toleration and free society, and radical criticism. Prerequisite: Admission to Politics Honors Program. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Fall 2010, Spring 2010 |
| PLIR 4999 | Senior Thesis (3) |
| Allows especially motivated students to receive credit for supervised work on a thesis in the area of international relations. Prerequisite: Three courses in PLIR and instructor permission. Course was offered Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2010 | |
| PLIR 5250 | Negotiating Arab - Israeli Peace (3) |
| Provides a detailed assessment of efforts to acheive a negotiated peace between Israel and its Arab neighbors. Focus will be on negotiation theory, conflict resolution, and diplomacy. Cases cover major episodes between 1973 and today. Includes a simulation of a negotiation of current issues in the conflict. Instructor Permission Required. Course was offered Spring 2012, Spring 2010 | |
| PLIR 5390 | Economics, Retional Choice, and International Security (3) |
| Economics, Retional Choice, and International Security. | |
| PLIR 5500 | Special Topics (3) |
| Special Topics Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2013, Fall 2012 | |
| PLIR 5620 | Latin America in World Affairs (3) |
| The relations of Latin-American states with each other, the United States, Western Europe, and other states; inter-American security; Latin American relations with the Soviet Union and Cuba; and the United States security doctrine. Prerequisite: Some background in international relations and/or the history of Latin America. Course was offered Spring 2011, Spring 2010 | |
| PLIR 5630 | International Relations Theory, Globalization, and the American States (3) |
| An investigation of various international relations theories, the global economy, and the development and policies of the American States, with an emphasis on issues related to drug trafficking. Course was offered Spring 2011, Spring 2010 | |
| PLIR 5710 | China in World Affairs (3) |
| Includes international relations of China; conditioning historical, political, economic, and social forces; and the aims, strategy, and tactics of China's foreign policy. Prerequisite: Some background in international relations and/or the history of China. | |
| PLIR 5810 | Asymmetry and International Relations (3) |
| A seminar exploring a new approach to international relations focused on relationships between countries with disparate capacities. Students will participate actively in developing and applying the new approach and contrasting it with other theories of international relations. | |
| PLIR 5993 | Selected Problems in International Relations (1 - 3) |
| Independent study, under faculty supervision, for intensive research on a specific topic. Prerequisite: Instructor permission. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLIR 7000 | Core Seminar in International Relations (3) |
| Provides an overview of the main schools, theorists, and problems in the study of international relations and foreign policy. It is the core seminar for the international relations sub-field and thus aims to represents its contemporary character. Course was offered Fall 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLIR 7010 | Core International Political Economy (3) |
| PhD-level course on theories and evidence in International Political Economy. Topics include international trade, foreign direct investment, global financial markets, international monetary policy, and international migration. Course was offered Fall 2024 | |
| PLIR 7020 | Core Seminar in International Security (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Provides an in-depth survey of International Relations Theory from the point of view of security studies. Focuses on the primary problem of cooperation between great powers; the causes of conflict and war; the role of psychology and domestic politics in conflicts; the role of institutions and trade in creating "zones of peace"; and the importance of signaling and diplomacy within environments of profound uncertainty. |
| PLIR 7060 | The Development of Classical Strategic Thought (3) |
| Studies the evolution of military strategy before the nuclear age. Examines the writings of major classical theorists, including Sun Tzu, Thucydides, Vegetius, Machiavelli, Frederick the Great, Clausewitz, Jomini, Mahan, Douhet, Mackinder, Mao Tse-Tung, and Liddell Hart. This course is the first half of a two-part series, the second half of which will examine the development of strategy in the nuclear age. | |
| PLIR 7080 | Military Force in International Relations (3) |
| Examines the threat and use of military force in international relations. Surveys the conceptual and theoretical literature on the subject; evaluates leading theories in light of historical experience; and explores a variety of factors that have traditionally conditioned the use of force, including ethical considerations, international law and organizations, the policy-making process, and public opinion. Course was offered Fall 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2019, Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Fall 2012, Fall 2011, Fall 2010 | |
| PLIR 7380 | International Political Economy of Trade and Investment (3) |
| Examines political economy foundations of international trade and foreign direct investment. Analyzes political patterns in economic flows; sources of national policies; and international cooperation. | |
| PLIR 7390 | International Political Economy of Finance and Migration (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | International Political Economy of Finance and Migration |
| PLIR 7500 | Special Topics in International Relations (3) |
| Special Topics in International Relations Course was offered Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Fall 2012, Fall 2011, Fall 2009 | |
| PLIR 7760 | Russian/Soviet Foreign Policy (3) |
| Thematic analysis of Soviet and Post-Soviet Russian foreign policy. Prerequisite: Instructor permission. | |
| PLIR 8010 | International Order (3) |
| This course examines the sources and evolution of international order in its theoretical, historical, and contemporary forms. | |
| PLIR 8080 | Problems of Force in International Relations (3) |
| Study of selected topics related to war, security arrangements, and the political functions of military capabilities in the international system. | |
| PLIR 8310 | Global Health and Human Rights (3) |
| Examines global health problems through the lens of human rights norms. Can the human rights movement motivate new approaches to disease prevention and the social determinants of health? The HIV/AIDS pandemic in Africa will be treated in depth. | |
| PLIR 8500 | Special Topics in International Relations (3) |
| Special Topics in International Relations | |
| PLIR 8511 | Topics in International Law and Organizations (3) |
| Research seminar on selected issues having both legal and organizational aspects. | |
| PLIR 8538 | Topics in International Political Economy (3) |
| An intensive examination of selected topics covering international political economy. Prerequisite: at least three additional credits of international economics, or instructor permission. | |
| PLIR 8630 | Statecraft an d International Security (3) |
| Reviews recent literature about diplomacy and coercion in international politics, with emphasis on empirical research strategies rather than immediate policy problems. Topics include deterrence and compellence, economic sanctions, military effectiveness, nuclear proliferation, peacekeeping, and terrorism. | |
| PLIR 8639 | Advanced Topics in International Relations Theory (3) |
| Examines key issues in modern international relations theory, including offense versus realism, the formation of alliances, the role of institutions, the factors influencing trade policy, recent psychological approaches, and the role of ideas and norms. Prerequisite: PLIR 7000 or equivalent. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Fall 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2012 | |
| PLIR 8998 | Non-Topical Research, Preparation for Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For master's research, taken before a thesis director has been selected. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLIR 8999 | Non-Topical Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For master's thesis, taken under the supervision of a thesis director. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLIR 9998 | Non-Topical Research, Preparation for Doctoral Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For doctoral research, taken before a dissertation director has been selected. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLIR 9999 | Non-Topical Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For doctoral dissertation, taken under the supervision of a dissertation director. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Summer 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| Politics-Political Theory | |
| PLPT 1010 | Introduction to Political Theory (3) |
| Introduces political philosophy as a mode of inquiry, and consideration of selected problems and writers in Western political theory. Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Fall 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010 | |
| PLPT 2500 | Special Topics in Political Theory (3) |
| Special Topics in Political Theory Course was offered Spring 2016 | |
| PLPT 3010 | Ancient and Medieval Political Theory (3) |
| Western Political Theory from Plato to the Reformation. Among authors covered are Plato, Aristotle, Epictetus, St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas, and Martin Luther. For the medieval period, central themes are natural law, allegorical interpretation of Scripture, and the origins of modern liberal political theory. Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2011, Fall 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLPT 3020 | Modern Political Thought (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Studies the development of political theory from the Renaissance through the nineteenth century. Course was offered Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLPT 3030 | Contemporary Political Thought (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Studies the course of political theory from the late 19th century through the present. Includes the major critical perspectives on modern politics and culture (existentialism, feminism, post-modernism, 'critical theory') and explores the problems that have preoccupied political theory in this period (alienation, language, individualism and discrimination). Prerequisite: One course in political theory or instructor permission. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Summer 2022, Spring 2022, Summer 2021, Spring 2021, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2018, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2012, Spring 2011 |
| PLPT 3050 | Survey of American Political Theory (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Surveys the development of the American tradition of free government emphasizing the major contributors and their critics. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Summer 2019, Summer 2013, Spring 2012, Fall 2009 |
| PLPT 3200 | African-American Political Thought (3) |
| This course explores the critical and the constructive dimensions of African American political thought from slavery to the present. We will assess the claims that black Americans have made upon the polity, how they have defined themselves, and how they have sought to redefine key terms of political life such as citizenship, equality, freedom, and power. Course was offered Spring 2024, Summer 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, Fall 2019, Summer 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2015, Spring 2013, Spring 2011, Fall 2009 | |
| PLPT 3500 | Special Topics in Political Theory (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Special topics in political theory. Course was offered Fall 2024, Summer 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Summer 2023, Summer 2022, Summer 2021, Spring 2021, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Summer 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2011, Fall 2010 |
| PLPT 3559 | New Course in Political Theory (1 - 4) |
| This course provides the opportunity to offer new topics in the subject of Political Theory. | |
| PLPT 3610 | Italian Political Thinkers (3) |
| Students of this course will study the political theories of Dante, Machiavelli, Beccaria, and Gramsci through a close-reading of each author's major works. We will also examine how their ideas influenced contemporary politics, literature, and the visual arts both in Italy and in the United States. These goals will be accomplished through regular reading assignments, short essays, and presentations. Course was offered Spring 2015 | |
| PLPT 3999 | Philosophical Perspectives on Liberty (3) |
| Examination of the nature and function of liberty in social theorists such as Adam Smith, JJ Rousseau, Ayn Rand, John Rawls, Robert Nozick. | |
| PLPT 4020 | Plato and Aristotle (3) |
| Studies the political and philosophical ideas of the founders of the tradition of political philosophy. Prerequisite: PLPT 1010 or 3010 or instructor permission. | |
| PLPT 4030 | Democratic Theory (3) |
| Surveys the major contributors to democratic theory, the central problems that any democratic theory has to answer, and the criticisms leveled at the various philosophical attempts to give a firm ground for democratic practices. Prerequisite: One course in PLPT or instructor permission. Course was offered Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Summer 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Summer 2012, Fall 2011, Spring 2010 | |
| PLPT 4031 | Marxist Theories (3) |
| Studies the basic political, sociological and philosophical ideas advanced by Marx and Engels, and their historical backgrounds; the later developments and varieties of Marxist thought in the twentieth century; and the principal critic, and chief debates. Prerequisite: PLPT 1010 or PLPT 3020, or instructor permission. Course was offered Spring 2016, Spring 2012 | |
| PLPT 4050 | Concepts of Law (3) |
| An in-depth exploration of recent and contemporary analytical jurisprudence, covering the work of such writers as Hart, Dworkin, Finnis, Raz, and others. Prerequisite: Two courses in PLPT or philosophy, or permission of the instructor. | |
| PLPT 4060 | Politics & Literature (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | This seminar considers how works of fiction enhance our understanding of the terms of democratic life. The theme for the spring of 2020 is the life and afterlife of slavery in American political experience; and the central authors are Herman Melville, Ralph Ellison, and Toni Morrison. |
| PLPT 4070 | Liberalism and Its Critics (3) |
| Major themes in the liberal tradition of political theory. The course examines central elements of liberal political theory and traces the development of classical liberalism into contemporary welfare-state liberalism. Focus is on strengths and weaknesses of both positions, and criticisms of the overall liberal approach. Among authors covered are Locke, Mill, Hobhouse, Rawls, and Nozick. Course was offered Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Spring 2016, Spring 2014, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLPT 4080 | Political Representation (3) |
| Examines practices of political representation within and outside of formal institutions. Does your US Congressperson represent you well? Does Bono represent poor Africans well? Is representation less democratic than direct participation? Should representatives ever be selected by lot rather than voting? Why are Congressional districts organized geographically? Course also examines the politics of visual representations (i.e. portrayals). Prerequisites: One political theory class. | |
| PLPT 4090 | Pragmatism, Religion, and Democracy (3) |
| This course examines classical and contemporary articulations of American pragmatism through the lens of religion, ethics, and democracy. Prerequisite: PHIL 1000, PLPT 1010, or PLPT 3020 or permission of instructor. | |
| PLPT 4120 | Theories of Justice (3) |
| Examines several contemporary theories of justice, including utilitarianism, liberal equality, libertarianism, and communitarianism. Considers how well these theories serve us in thinking through more "applied" topics, e.g. global poverty and animal welfare. Prerequisites: At least one course in political theory or philosophy and instructor permission. | |
| PLPT 4130 | Global Ethics (3) |
| This class is intended to help you improve your capacity to understand, evaluate, and make reasoned arguments about ethical problems faced by different kinds of actors operating across state borders. Topics vary, but might include the responsibilities of international anti-poverty NGOs, torture, and the ethics of the global patent regime. Emphasis is more on learning concepts and improving analytic skills than on the details of public policy. Prerequisite: prior course in PLPT. Course was offered Fall 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2011, Spring 2010 | |
| PLPT 4200 | Feminist Political Theory (3) |
| Studies modern and contemporary feminist theories of political life. Prerequisite: One previous course in political theory or instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2018, Spring 2016, Spring 2014, Fall 2012, Fall 2010, Spring 2010 | |
| PLPT 4305 | American Political Thought to 1865 (3) |
| This course examines the development of American political thought from the Puritans through the Civil War. The questions they posed and attempted to answer are the eternal questions of all political thought, such as, what is the best form of government; what are the rights and obligations of citizens; what is the proper relationship between the state and religion. | |
| PLPT 4500 | Special Topics in Political Theory (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Investigates a special problem of political theory such as political corruption, religion and politics, science and politics, or the nature of justice. Prerequisite: One course in PLPT or instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLPT 4800 | Political Economy (3) |
| Focuses on historical and contemporary theorists who relate politics and economics. Prerequisite: Previous course work in PLA, economics, or philosophy. Course was offered Fall 2014 | |
| PLPT 4990 | Honors Core Seminar in Political Theory (9) |
| A critical analysis of important issues and works in political theory from diverse perspectives. Students are required to write weekly analytical essays and actively participate in small seminar discussions on issues including: theories of common good, economic justice, toleration and free society, and radical criticism. Prerequisite: Admission to Politics Honors Program. | |
| PLPT 4999 | Senior Thesis (3) |
| Supervised work on a thesis in political theory for especially motivated students. Prerequisite: Three courses in PLPT and instructor permission. Course was offered Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Spring 2011, Spring 2010 | |
| PLPT 5010 | Nature of Political Inquiry (3) |
| Important conceptual issues encountered in the scientific study of politics, including an introduction to the philosophy of science; classic contributions to the scientific study of politics; and the problems of 'value free' science, and studying 'meaningful' behavior. Prerequisite: Instructor permission or graduate status. | |
| PLPT 5150 | Continental Political Thought (3) |
| Surveys the main currents of Continental political thought from the eighteenth century through the present. Prerequisite: One course in PLPT or instructor permission. | |
| PLPT 5500 | Special Topics in Political Theory (3) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | Investigates a special problem of political theory such as political corruption, religion and politics, science and politics, or the nature of justice. |
| PLPT 5993 | Selected Problems in Theory and Method (1 - 3) |
| Independent study under faculty supervision, for students who are preparing for intensive research on a specific topic. Prerequisite: Instructor permission. Course was offered Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLPT 7000 | Introduction to Political Theory (3) |
| Introduces the themes, methods, and development of political theory from classical antiquity to the present. Course was offered Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2018, Fall 2016, Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Fall 2010, Fall 2009 | |
| PLPT 7010 | Interpretative Methods for Political Thought and Culture (3) |
| "This class surveys interpretative approaches used to study the objects that comprise political theory¿s purview: treatises, historical events, cultural practices, and archival materials. Students will read canonical methodological statements, like those of ""contextualism"" and ethnographic ""thick description."" They will also survey major figures of political thought, the better to train students to use these methods in their teaching." Course was offered Fall 2023 | |
| PLPT 7220 | American Political Thought (3) |
| Studies the development of American political thought by major contributors. | |
| PLPT 7500 | Special Topics in Political Theory (3) |
| Special Topics in Political Theory Course was offered Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Fall 2018, Spring 2015, Spring 2014, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Spring 2010 | |
| PLPT 8020 | Problems of Political Philosophy (3) |
| Detailed study of one or more problems in political philosophy. | |
| PLPT 8500 | Special Topics in Political Theory (3) |
| Special Topics in Political Theory Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2021, Fall 2020, Spring 2020, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013, Fall 2012, Spring 2011, Fall 2010 | |
| PLPT 8998 | Non-Topical Research, Preparation for Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For master's research, taken before a thesis director has been selected. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLPT 8999 | Non-Topical Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For master's thesis, taken under the supervision of a thesis director. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLPT 9998 | Non-Topical Research, Preparation for Doctoral Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For doctoral research, taken before a dissertation director has been selected. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |
| PLPT 9999 | Non-Topical Research (1 - 12) |
| Offered Spring 2025 | For doctoral Dissertation, taken under the supervision of a dissertation director. Course was offered Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2019, Summer 2019, Spring 2019, Fall 2018, Summer 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017, Summer 2017, Spring 2017, Fall 2016, Summer 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Summer 2015, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Summer 2014, Spring 2014, Fall 2013, Summer 2013, Spring 2013, Fall 2012, Summer 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2011, Summer 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2010, Summer 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009 |