POLITICAL SCIENCE 151-4
UNITED STATES POLITICS
Marcus D. Pohlmann
Professor of Political Science
Office Hours:
TuTh 2:00 -- 5:00
or by appointment
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PURPOSE OF THE COURSE
The course is designed as a critical introduction to United States politics, challenging
many of the traditional explanations of the system’s functioning. In particular, it analyzes
the political process and the relationship between governmental policy and the
individual citizen. The central questions being addressed are: How does the political
system work, both by design and in reality? Are all interests served relatively equally as
a result? Is the U.S. political system a "democracy"? What, if anything, could make it
more democratic?
Hopefully, the student will come away with some essential knowledge of the political
process, its problems, and alternatives to the status quo. The course also attempts to
help stimulate and develop the student's creative thought, clarity of expression, study
habits, and interest in politics and political science. In addition, it is hoped that this
course will assist the student in coming to his/her own political self-awareness (where
he/she fits in politically) and activate pursuit of his/her interests in the political arena.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
:
Readings -- do them all carefully and critically prior to class.
Class Contribution -- attend all classes, come prepared, and participate.
Quizzes – daily
Midterm Examination
Final Examination
REQUIRED TEXTS
Edward Greenberg and Benjamin Page, America’s Democratic Republic (2007)
Howard Zinn, A Peoples’ History of the United States (2003)
note: you also are required to stay up with each day’s national news developments
