Political Science (POSC)
Chair: Professor Barbara Allen, fall, Associate Professor Laurence D. Cooper, winter and spring
Emeritus Professor: Norman J. Vig
Professors: Barbara Allen, Roy F. Grow, Richard A. Keiser, Steven E. Schier
Visiting Professors: Russell L. Hanson, Burton Levin
Associate Professors: Laurence D. Cooper, Alfred P. Montero, Kimberly Smith
Assistant Professors: Kelly Kollman, B. Gregory Marfleet
Visiting Assistant Professor: Eric Wolf
Visiting Instructors: Brent Cusher, Ishan Joshi, Moha Shawki, Julian Cornelius Westerhout, Karen Wright
Scholar-in-Residence Fellow: Melvin L. Rogers
There are two tracks in the major: Political Science and Political Science/International Relations (a double major is not allowed in the two tracks). Students in both tracks take nearly all the same required courses, including Methodology, and follow all of the general requirements for the Political Science major, except where noted. They also choose from the same integrative exercise choices.
Requirements for the Political Science track:
Sixty-six credits in the department, including:
1. Departmental Core Courses (24 credits) as listed below. Majors are required to have completed the core courses prior to their senior year.
POSC 120 Comparative Political Regimes
POSC 122 Politics in America: Liberty and Equality
POSC 160 Political Philosophy
POSC 170 International Relations and World Politics
Course numbers suggest the order in which courses should be taken, with 120, 122, and 160 recommended for the first year and 170 and 200-level courses for the sophomore year. POSC 230 should be taken as soon as possible after declaring the major. Courses numbered in the 300s and above are directed at juniors and seniors and assume substantial previous study.
2. Methods Sequence (12 credits):
MATH 115 Introduction to Statistics or MATH 215 Introduction to Probability and Statistics (6 credits)
POSC 230: Methods of Political Research (6 credits) This course should be taken as soon as possible after declaring a major.
3. Departmental Elective Courses (24 credits): At least one must be an advanced seminar course (300 level). It is recommended that majors take their seminar course during the junior year.
A maximum of 12 credits earned on a non-Carleton off campus studies program may be granted toward the electives requirement. These credits may not be used to replace a core course and should be distinct and independent from electives offered at Carleton. The chair may require a copy of the off-campus course syllabus.
4. Integrative Exercise (6 credits total): During their junior or senior year students will revise substantially the final paper from an advanced seminar in political science. (Department-approved courses are designated with an asterisk*. Also see separately published list, which does not include courses taken on non-Carleton off-campus programs.) The professor in the course will act as the student's comps adviser. Usually revision will take place during the term following the seminar and the revision will be completed during that term. However, professors and advisees may mutually define the scope of revision. The integrative exercise will be completed with preparation of a poster for a group poster presentation.
Requirements for the Political Science/International Relations track:
Director: Professor Roy F. Grow
The International Relations Program was originated in 1937 by the former Secretary of State and Nobel Peace Prize winner, Frank B. Kellogg, through the establishment at Carleton of the Kellogg Foundation for Education in International Relations.
Sixty-six credits, including:
1. Core Courses (18 credits): Three of the four Political Science Department core courses listed below (must include POSC 170). Majors are required to have completed the core courses prior to their senior year.
POSC 120 Comparative Political Regimes
POSC 122 Politics in America: Liberty and Equality
POSC 160 Political Philosophy
POSC 170 International Relations and World Politics
Course numbers suggest the order in which courses should be taken, with 120, 122, and 160 recommended for the first year and 170 and 200-level courses for the sophomore year. POSC 230 should be taken as soon as possible after declaring the major. Courses numbered in the 300s and above are directed at juniors and seniors and assume substantial previous study.
2. Methods Sequence (12 credits):
MATH 115 Introduction to Statistics or MATH 215 Introduction to Probability and Statistics (6 credits)
POSC 230 Methods of Political Research (6 credits) This course should be taken as soon as possible after declaring a major.
3. Elective Courses (30 credits): Five courses from the following list, spread across at least two of the three fields below. Two of the five courses must be 300-level courses in the Political Science Department, and one of those two courses must be an International Relations seminar or other seminar with approval of Chair and International Relations Coordinator. It is recommended that majors take their seminar course during the junior year.
A course which was listed as fulfilling the International Relations electives requirement at the time the student elected that course, but which has been deleted from the catalog simply because it has not been taught this year or last, will continue to be accepted in fulfillment of the IR requirement.
a) Security and Foreign Policy
HIST 244 History of European Diplomacy
HIST 258 Foreign Relations of East Asia in Modern Times (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 231 American Foreign Policy (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 234 The Arab-Israeli Conflict (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 239 The Diplomat's Craft: Three Case Studies
POSC 259 Justice Among Nations (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 326 America's China Policy
POSC 328 Foreign Policy Analysis
POSC 329 Vietnam War and American Policy* (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 330 The Complexity of Politics*
POSC 342 International Conflict and War* (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 343 Seminar in World Politics*
POSC 344 America's War on International Terrorism* (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 345 Guerillas, Warlords and Bandits: The Art of Asymmetric War*
POSC 346 Spies, Rogues and Statesmen: Intelligence and the Formation of Foreign Policy* (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 355 Contemporary Feminist Thought: Identity, Culture and Rights (not offered in 2005-2006)
b) Comparative Systems
HIST 210 Traditional Societies: Bandits, Outlaws and Other Rebels: A Comparative History (not offered in 2005-2006)
HIST 241 Russia Since 1917 (not offered in 2005-2006)
HIST 243 The Peasants are Revolting: Society and Politics in the Making of Modern France
HIST 254 Colonialism in East Asia
HIST 260 The Making of the Modern Middle East (not offered in 2005-2006)
HIST 261 Modern Middle East (not offered in 2005-2006)
HIST 262 Post-Colonial South Asia, 1947-present (not offered in 2005-2006)
HIST 272 The Emergence of Modern Mexico
HIST 360 Muslims and Modernity (not offered in 2005-2006)
HIST 395 Twentieth Century Totalitarianism in Europe
POSC 221 Latin American Politics (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 232 Taiwan: Political and Economic Change (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 233 Global Resurgence of Democracy (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 238 West European Politics (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 242 Hong Kong: Relic of the Past or Model for the Future (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 243 Politics of Burma: Democratic Challenge, Military Response (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 244 Post-Communist States in East-Central Europe (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 245 Comparative Environmental Politics and Policy (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 253 Communist Political Thought: Marx to Mao (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 281 Global Society: An Approach to World Politics (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 247 Comparative Nationalism
POSC 248 Political Culture
POSC 320 Government and Politics of Africa* (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 324 Chinese Politics and Foreign Policy* (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 327 Politics of African Development
POSC 358 Comparative Social Movements*
POSC 378 Chinese Social and Political Institutions
POSC 379 Chinese Decision Making
POSC 385 Comparative Democratic Institutions* (not offered in 2005-2006)
SOAN 221 Law and Society
SOAN 225 Social Movements
SOAN 255 Sociology, Culture and Politics in South Asia
c) International Political Economy
ECON 231 Soviet and Post Soviet Economics (not offered in 2005-2006)
ECON 233 European Economic History
ECON 236 The Economics of the European Union
ECON 240 Economics of Developing Countries
ECON 274 Labor Economics (not offered in 2005-2006)
ECON 275 Law and Economics
ECON 280 International Trade
ECON 281 International Finance
POSC 263 European Political Economy (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 265 Politics of Global Economic Relations
POSC 268 International Environmental Politics and Policy
POSC 322 Political Economy of Latin America*
POSC 360 Political Economy Seminar (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 362 Globalization and the State* (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 363 Political Economy of Internal War* (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 364 Captalism and Its Critics*
POSC 365 People, Choice and Resources: International Public Policy
POSC 381 Politics of Economic Development*
POSC 382 Chinese Economy in Transition
POSC 383 Politics of the European Union* (not offered in 2005-2006)
POSC 387 The Europe of Regions* (not offered in 2005-2006)
SOAN 130 Population and Food in the Global System
SOAN 234 Economy, Ecology and Culture
4. Integrative Exercise (Total of 6 credits): During their junior or senior year, students will revise substantially the final paper from an advanced seminar in international relations. (Department-approved courses are designated with an asterisk*. Also see separately published list, which does not include courses taken on non-Carleton off-campus programs.) The professor in the course will act as the student's comps adviser. Usually revision will take place during the term following the seminar and the revision will be completed during that term. However, professors and advisees may mutually define the scope of revision. The integrative exercise will be completed with preparation of a poster for a group poster presentation.
5. Study Abroad: We recommend study in a Carleton College Off-Campus or non-Carleton program that includes a significant political component. This may include study in our Beijing or Maastricht programs, or the Washington D.C. program, especially if the internship taken during the Washington program includes an international organization issue.
A maximum of 12 credits earned on a non-Carleton off campus studies program may be granted toward the electives requirement. These credits may not be used to replace a core course and should be distinct and independent from electives offered at Carleton. The chair may require a copy of the off-campus course syllabus.
Political Science and International Relations Courses
POSC 100. Civil Rights: Martin and Malcolm This first-year student seminar examines the speeches, writings, and activities of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X during the Civil Rights Movement. The course will compare different types of political participation and tactics of social movements, considering the religious, philosophical, and political principles informing non-violent direct action, civil disobedience, conscientious objection, self-defense, and armed revolt in detail. 6 cr., S/CR/NC, SS, Fall—B. Allen
POSC 120. Comparative Political Regimes An introduction to the fundamentals of government and the variety of ways politics is practiced in different countries. Capitalist democracies, transitional states and developing nations are compared. 6 cr., SS, Fall,Winter,Spring—I. Joshi, K. Kollman, A. Montero, N. Vig
POSC 122. Politics in America: Liberty and Equality An introduction to American government and politics. Focus on the Congress, Presidency, political parties and interest groups, the courts and the Constitution. Particular attention will be given to the public policy debates that divide liberals and conservatives and how these divisions are rooted in American political culture. 6 cr., SS, Fall,Winter—R. Keiser, S. Schier
POSC 160. Political Philosophy Introduction to ancient and modern political philosophy. We will investigate several fundamentally different approaches to the basic questions of politicsquestions concerning the character of political life, the possibilities and limits of politics, justice, and the good societyand the philosophic presuppositions (concerning human nature and human flourishing) that underlie these, and all, political questions. 6 cr., SS, Fall,Winter,Spring—L. Cooper, B. Cusher, K. Smith
POSC 170. International Relations and World Politics A survey of factors in international relations of a geopolitical, commercial and ideological character; systems of international relations, including bipolar deterrence, polycentrism, and international organization; and dynamics of international relations, including war, diplomacy, and international economic and social development. 6 cr., SS, Fall,Winter,Spring—R. Grow, G. Marfleet, N. Shawki
POSC 201. National Policymaking This course will examine how and by whom ideas are brought to the national political agenda and how they are kept off, the processes by which policy solutions are considered, the formulation of legislation and the reasons for success and failure, and policy implementation. We will mix theory with a variety of policy case studies, such as tax reform policy and health care policy. Prerequisite: Political Science 122 or sophomore standing. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 202. Parties, Interest Groups and Elections Examination of the American electoral system and its components: parties, interest groups and the media. The impact of parties and interests on national policymaking is also explored. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 204. Media and American Politics: Special Election Edition Our analysis of media influences on politics will draw from three fields of study: political psychology, political behavior and participation, and public opinion. In 2004 we focused on media and politics following the role of media in election 2004. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 205. Congress and the Presidency An examination of institutional behavior and policy consequences in the Congress and Presidency. Particular attention is devoted to the politics of each institution, and the policy possibilities encouraged and restricted by such politics. A simulation of legislative-executive policy making will be conducted in order to explore these themes. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 206. The American Courts We will explore the political and institutional dimensions of courts, and consider whether and how judicial decision making differs from political decision making. Topics will include legal reasoning and the role of the judge, the institutional capacity of courts and their relation to the political branches, and the role of lawyers in the political system. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 207. Urban Politics An introduction to the politics of large cities with a focus on one or a few specific cities. We will examine the functional logic and electoral success of machine politics as well as successful and coopted attempts at reform in machine cities. We will also examine how race and class have created new cleavages in the partisan structure of urban politics. Finally, we will study the fiscal problems of contemporary cities and examine the intergovernmental constraints on cities. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 211. Institutions and Democracy This course draws on methods and theory from political economy, economics, cultural anthropology, game theory, and rational choice to create a framework for understanding rule-ordered relationships (e.g. creating constitutions, means for taking collective action, and even the daily operation of public and private organizations). We will study the work of K. Arrow, M. Olson, E. Ostrom, V. Ostrom, J. Buchanan and G. Tullock, R. Coase, H. Simon, D. North, W. Riker and others. 6 cr., SS, Fall—B. Allen
POSC 216. The Initiative: Referendum and Public Policy The direct democracy tools of initiative and referendum. What are the origins of these institutions and in what historical circumstances do they flourish? What are the arguments of proponents and opponents of direct democracy? What kinds of interests seem to benefit from the initiative and referendum? What should citizens and policymakers consider in deliberations about expanding the use of these tools? Students will examine theories of the policymaking process, debates about democratic representation, and cases of successful and unsuccessful referenda. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 217. U.S. State Politics
This course compares the fifty states in the United States in terms of their constitutions, institutions, political organization, and patterns of participation. We will also describe the range of variation in state policies, and explain it in terms of prevailing models of state policy making. In this way we will learn what Minnesota has in common with other states, and where it differs. Students will apply this knowledge to the investigation of a current issue, policy or political controversy in the North Star state. Field work may be required, depending on which aspect of Minnesota politics students choose to explore. 6 cr., SS, Spring—R. Hanson
POSC 218. Federalism
This course explores the constitution of federalism in the United States and its development over time. It covers relations between state and national governments, as well as interactions between states, and between Native American tribes and different levels of U.S. government. We will discuss constitutional, institutional, political and fiscal aspects of federalism in general, and the U.S. in particular. We will also examine the dynamics of policy making in this federal system of governance, occasionally drawing comparisons to the U.S. to the other two federal systems on the North American continent, Mexico and Canada. 6 cr., SS, Spring—R. Hanson
POSC 221. Latin American Politics Comparative study of political institutions and conflicts in selected Latin American countries. Attention is focused on general problems and patterns of development, with some emphasis on U.S.-Latin American relations. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 230. Methods of Political Research An introduction to research method, research design, and the analysis of political data. The course is intended to introduce students to the fundamentals of scientific inquiry as they are employed in the discipline. The course will consider the philosophy of scientific research generally, the philosophy of social science research, theory building and theory testing, the components of applied (quantitative and qualitative) research across the major sub-fields of political science, and basic methodological tools. Intended for majors only. Prerequisite: Mathematics 115 or 215. 6 cr., ND, Fall,Winter,Spring—G. Marfleet, J. Westerhout
POSC 231. American Foreign Policy An introduction to the actors and processes of American foreign policymaking and to the substance of American foreign policy. The course aims to provide students with an understanding of how knowledge of the past, the global policy environment, the processes of foreign policymaking, and the specifics of a foreign policy issue come together to help determine modern American foreign policy. The course will review the structure of the international system of states, state power and interests, the historical context of American foreign policy, actors in American foreign affairs, models of foreign policy decision making, and the instruments of foreign policy. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 232. Taiwan: Political and Economic Change This five-week course will examine how an underdeveloped and totalitarian polity was transformed into a modern market economy and political democracy. We also will examine Taiwan in the context of the USA/PRC relationship. 3 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 233. The Global Resurgence of Democracy An introduction to the comparative study of democracy and its alternatives in the twentieth century. The course will assess the fortunes of democracy in developed and lesser developed capitalist and post-communist countries in the twentieth century. What factors explain the rise and fall of democracy in these cases? How do authoritarian regimes emerge, function, and decompose? What are the political, economic, social and psychological effects on societies that survive authoritarianism and make transitions to democracy? This course is particularly useful in preparing for the comps exam or writing a comps paper in comparative politics. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 234. The Arab-Israeli Conflict A study of the Arab-Israeli conflict and the current international state of relations in the Middle East is the focus of this course. Lectures on the origins of the conflict do not lay blame on any of the parties, but do outline the contours of the clash of destinies that is the Arab-Israeli conflict. Concepts gleaned from both the security and conflict resolution literatures will be used to give analytic context to the study. Global, regional, and domestic political factors will be examined to determine their influence on the relation of force to diplomacy, as well as incremental versus comprehensive approaches to the peace process. A class simulation will be used to explore war and peace scenarios. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 238. West European Politics This course examines and compares the political processes, governing institutions and political economies of selected countries in Western Europe. We will explore how the historic development of institutions, ideology, culture and economic structures in each country has shaped the nature of their contemporary politics. Although the course will focus on domestic politics, some attention will be paid to the effects of economic globalization and European integration on the political structures and identities of the countries under study. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 239. The Diplomat's Craft: Three Case Studies Diplomacy is the means by which states find common ground and resolve differences. Former ambassador Burt Levin uses three cases studies from his career to evaluate the relationships between diplomacy and policy implementation. 3 cr., SS, Spring—B. Levin
POSC 242. Hong Kong: A Relic of the Past or a Model for the Future This five-week course will examine Hong Kong's colonial past, its transformation from a sleepy backwater to one of the Asian economic tigers and the events leading to the consequences following the territory's reversion to China. It will look into the social, political and economic changes now underway and the effect they may have on Hong Kong's future. The extent and import of America's interaction with Hong Kong will also be discussed. 3 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 243. The Politics of Burma: Democratic Challenge, Military Response This five-week course focuses on the turbulent political history of Burma (Myanmar). After considering Burma's early history, the course will move through topics that include the upset of foreign colonialism, the rise of nationalism and the development of participatory politics. Finally, the class will evaluate the current military regime and the factions that might lead to change. 3 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 244. Post-Communist States in East-Central Europe This course provides an in-depth introduction to political developments in post-communist, East-Central Europe. The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 represented a return to diversity in the region. The unique paths each country has taken during the transition to liberal democracy and a market economy reflect the different historical legacies each society brought to these processes. After exploring the roots of these legacies and their impact on culture, ideology and institutions, we will trace the trajectory of the countries' transitions and examine the likelihood of democratic consolidation across the region. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 245. Comparative Environmental Politics and Policy The study of environmental politics tends to concentrate either on developments within the United States or developments at the international level. Very few courses examine environmental policymaking across different political systems. As growing tensions over international environmental issues illustrate, however, individual countries take very different approaches to defining environmental problems and have different ways of addressing and trying to find solutions to these problems. We will explicitly compare different national approaches to environmental politics and policymaking. In so doing, we will explore the impact of institutions, culture, economic interests and the historic development of national environmental movements on these political processes. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 246. International Perspectives on Human Rights
This is an overview course focusing on the broad and diverse range of issues related to human rights and international human rights politics. We will study the philosophical foundations of human rights, the modern human rights movement, civil and political rights, economic and social rights, and human rights organizations. We will also study some of the controversies and dilemmas surrounding the pursuit of human rights at the domestic and international levels. Case studies will include: Transitional justice, humanitarian intervention, and the plight of refugees. 6 cr., SS, Winter—N. Shawki
POSC 247. Comparative Nationalism
What is a nation? What does it mean to be a part of a nation? Where does this identity come from? What holds it together? This course examines the theory and practice of nationalism from a variety of perspectives: political, linguistic, economic, and philosophical. Examples are taken from several regions of the world, including Europe, Asia, the United States, and the Middle-East. There are no prerequisites for this course. 6 cr., SS, Winter—I. Joshi
POSC 248. Political Culture
This course studies the impact of political culture in a comparative perspective. We study how the values, ideas, and attitudinal dispositions of individuals differently impacts the political choices they make and the outcomes we observe. We examine the salience of cultural categories such as: ethnicity, equality, identity, values, and ideology in different institutional contexts, in both democratic and non-democratic settings, drawing on materials from Asia, Europe, the United States, Africa, and Latin America. 6 cr., SS, Winter—I. Joshi
POSC 249. Globalization and Political Philosophy
An interdisciplinary survey of several elements of globalization and the theoretical questions they raise. In addition to questions in political philosophy concerning the roles of states and NGOs in the age of globalization, we will also examine legal, moral, and economic issues concerning the relation between political and economic systems, the obligations of the economic "winners" of globalization to the "losers," the role of globalization in producing mass violence, and legal and military responses to genocide and other crises. 6 cr., SS, Spring—E. Wolf
POSC 250. Ancient Political Philosophy In this course we will examine ancient political philosophy through the intensive study of Plato's Republic, perhaps the greatest work of political philosophy ever written. What is morality? Why should a person behave morally? Wouldn't it be more satisfying to be a tyrant? What is the best way of life? What would a perfect society look like? What would be its customs and institutions, and who would rule? What would it demand of us, and would that price be worth paying? These are some of the politically (and personally) vital questions addressed by the book. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 251. Modern Political Philosophy We will follow the "march" of modern political philosophy from Machiavelli through the works of Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau to Kant, Hegel, Marx, and Nietzsche. 6 cr., SS, Winter—B. Cusher
POSC 252. American Political Thought According to Louis Hartz, America was born liberal. Are American political traditions fundamentally individualistic and egalitarian? If so, how do we explain race and gender hierarchies, socialist influences and the long-standing ideal of the godly "city on the hill"? We will explore representative texts in the American political tradition, concentrating on the Founding through the nineteenth century. Topics include the theory of the Constitution, early debates over citizenship, the emergence of feminism, abolitionism and race theory, and the defense and critique of industrial capitalism. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 253. Communist Political Thought: Marx to Mao An introduction to the economic and political themes in Communist literature, concentrating on the works of Marx, Engels, Lenin, Trotsky, Stalin, and Mao. The course investigates theories of economic development, the role of the state, social conflict, political action, and revolution in the writings of each of these men. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 254. Classical Political Psychology: Aristotle's Rhetoric A close reading of Aristotle's classic text, preceded by a close (but fairly brief) reading of a related Platonic dialogue. The course is based on the view, advanced by Aristotle and Plato themselves, that a grasp of rhetoricwhat it is, how it works, and whygives insight into politics and human nature. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 255. Post-Modern Political Thought The thought and practice of the modern age have been found irredeemably oppressive, alienating, dehumanizing, and/or exhausted by a number of leading philosophic thinkers in recent years. In this course we will explore the critiques and alternative visions offered by a variety of post-modern thinkers, including Nietzsche (in many ways the first post-modern), Heidegger, Foucault, and Derrida. 6 cr., SS, Spring—M. Rogers
POSC 256. Democracy and Its Critics In this course we will read a series of ancient, modern and contemporary indictments of democratic politics, as well as some defenses. In each case we will ask: what is the portrait of democracy on offer? What are its purported defects or virtues? How does it illuminate the possibilities and pitfalls of our own democratic politics? Readings will include works by Plato, Rousseau, Tocqueville, John Stuart Mill, Carl Schmitt, John Dewey, and others. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 257. American Environmental Thought The development of American thinking about nature and humanity's relationship to it covering from the nineteenth century to the present. Representative figures include Henry David Thoreau, John Muir, Aldo Leopold, Rachel Carson, and Barry Commoner. 6 cr., SS, Spring—K. Smith
POSC 258. Politics and Ambition Is personal ambition a threat to peace and the public good or is it a prod to nobility and heroism? Does it exemplify the opposition between self and society or does it represent their intersection and mutual supportor both? Drawing on literary, philosophical, and historical works this course will take up these and other questions as part of a broad examination of the role of ambition in politics. 6 cr., SS, Spring—L. Cooper
POSC 259. Justice Among Nations This course will attempt to bring to bear great works of political philosophy on the central questions of international relations, questions concerning both the moral basis of power and the character of international politics. Readings will be drawn from ancient and modern political philosophy and will culminate in an analysis and evaluation of contemporary international relations theory in light of these earlier thinkers. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 260. The Political Philosophy of Jean-Jacques Rousseau*
We will use the political thought of Rousseau to explore the problem of the relationship between nature and society. What are human beings like in their nature? Is civil society in harmony with these natural characteristics, or does it change us? Furthermore, if the relationship between nature and society is discordant, what are the requirements for legitimate and good government according to Rousseau? We will explore these questions and others through close study of the First and Second Discourses, On the Social Contract, and the Discourse on Political Economy. No prior knowledge of Rousseau is required. 6 cr., SS, Fall—B. Cusher
POSC 262. Environmental Policy and Politics Study of U.S. federal environmental and natural resource policies since the 1960s with particular emphasis on the regulation of air and water pollution, hazardous and toxic wastes, and public land management. Focus on how the various institutions of American government deal with environmental issues, the role of environmental and other interest groups, and proposals for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of regulatory policies. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 263. European Political Economy An introduction to the politics of the European region during the post-World War II period. Students will examine the political conditions that gave impetus to the creation, maintenance, crisis, and decline of Keynesian economic policies, social welfare states, social democratic partisan alliances, and cooperative patterns of industrial relations. The course will examine the rise and reform of the project of European integration. The course will also address the particular problems faced by the East European countries as they attempt to make a transition from authoritarian, command economies to democratic, market-based economies. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 265. Politics of Global Economic Relations This course examines the interaction of national politics and international economic activity. Topics include the relationship between national and international finance, global competitiveness, and economic development. Case studies drawn from every continent. 6 cr., SS, Winter—A. Montero
POSC 266. Urban Political Economy An examination of the power of capital in cities. Focus on goals and impact of urban renewal, downtown development, and competition with suburbs, other states and other countries. Is the local state a countervailing force to the interests of business and developers? Can citizen groups make a difference in development decisions? Are markets the best allocative mechanism for decisions about development priorities? Student research on local development issues, e.g., the Mall of America, sports stadia, and new airport proposals will be encouraged. Short essays or exams will be required. 6 cr., SS, Spring—R. Keiser
POSC 268. International Environmental Politics and Policy An introduction to the efforts of the international community to develop policy, agreements, and institutions to protect regional and global environments. Topics include theories of international cooperation and regime formation; treaty negotiation processes; emerging principles of international environmental policy, international organizations such as the United Nations Environmental Programme as well as the role of private actors nongovernmental organizations and multinational corporations. Issues to be studied include global climate change, ozone protection, trade and environment, and sustainable development. 6 cr., SS, Spring—N. Vig
POSC 271. Constitutional Law I Covers American constitutional law and history from the founding to the breakdown of the constitution in secession crisis. Extensive attention will be paid to the constitutional convention and other sources of constitutional law in addition to Supreme Court cases. 6 cr., SS, Fall—K. Smith
POSC 272. Constitutional Law II Covers American constitutional law and history from the crisis of the Civil War through the crisis of the great depression. Extensive attention will be paid to the effort to refound the American constitution following the Civil War as manifest in the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments, and to the successive transformations which the Supreme Court worked in the new constitutional order. Political Science 271 is not a prerequisite. 6 cr., SS, Winter—K. Smith
POSC 280. Social Capital and Civic Engagement Civic engagement has been one of the hallmarks of American political culture, and fears that it is in decline have led to extensive analysis and many new initiatives. "Social capital," seen by some as the answer to underachievement, is the focus of academic discussions and policy strategies in governments and international institutions across the world. This class will explore theoretical concepts as well as current policy debates, including bonding vs. bridging ties, the 'dark side' of social capital, challenges posed by inequality and diversity, and the implications of cultural context. 6 cr., SS, Winter—K. Wright
POSC 281. Global Society: An Approach to World Politics One of the features of the Post-Cold War world has been the increased salience of issues such as terrorism, the environment, the influence of transnational corporations, the world-wide AIDS epidemic, the drug trade, and the crisis of refugees. The proliferation of such problems illustrates the limitations of state-centric international relations theory. This course examines new theoretical approaches to global politics that seek to understand how non-state actors and structures influence emerging patterns of global governance. We will debate as a class the extent to which a global society approach to world politics helps us to understand these transnational problems. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 282. Sexuality, Society and Justice We will examine some of the arenas where questions of gender and sexuality have come under sharp social dispute, and where claims of justice have been brought to bear – often on both sides. The course will explore both fundamental questions of human development and gender politics, as well as specific topics including prostitution, pornography, and gay marriage. This is an "accessible theory" course; it will rely heavily on the writings of Martha Nussbaum, as well as other contemporary theorists. 6 cr., SS, Winter—K. Wright
POSC 289, 293. Washington D.C. Program: Seminar A study of national and international political institutions and processes conducted in Washington, D.C. Seminar participants include national and international reporters, foreign diplomats, members of Congress, career civil servants, White House staff, political party leaders, and interest group representatives. Program participants will also earn four credits from directed reading during the winter break and six credits from a Washington internship, and six credits for the seminar during winter term. Senior political science majors may elect to take this seminar as a 3 credit course along with 3 credits of comps. 9 or 12 cr., S/CR/NC, SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 305. Issues in American Democracy* An in-depth analysis of the operations of American electoral and national governmental institutions. The seminar will examine the normative and empirical aspects of popular rule in America by surveying a variety of analytical perspectives, from The Federalist Papers to contemporary political science. Students are responsible for the agenda of class sessions and each must complete a 20-25 page research paper on a course-related topic. 6 cr., SS, Winter—S. Schier
POSC 306. Urban Racial and Ethnic Politics* Exploration of similarities and differences in political struggle of Irish, Italian and other white ethnic groups with African Americans and Latinos. What are the strategies for political empowerment? What are the benefits of empowerment? How is pan-ethnic (e.g., Latino, Asian-American) identity created? 6 cr., SS, Fall—R. Keiser
POSC 308. Poverty and Public Policy* This course will focus on the causes of urban poverty in the United States and the public policy strategies at the state and federal levels for reducing poverty. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 309. The American Presidency* A study of the contemporary Presidency, with a focus on the development of the institutional Presidency, the relations with other structures in the American political system and the role of unelected advisors including the First Lady. 6 cr., SS, Fall—S. Schier
POSC 311. Topics in Constitutional Law* This seminar will explore selected themes in constitutional law, examining the historical development of doctrine, the philosophical issues raised by the issues and the contemporary political controversies surrounding the Court's decisions. Topics may include the separation of church and state, freedom of speech, reproductive rights, criminal justice, voting rights, and gender and sexuality in the law. Prerequisite: One of the following: Political Science 206, 270, 271. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 320. Government and Politics of Africa* This course examines politics and economics in Sub-Saharan Africa. Topics will include the different kinds of government in the region, the relationship between economic development and political change, and the social cleavages that shape the political process. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 322. Political Economy of Latin America* A research seminar that focuses on politics and economic development Latin America. Topics include: macroeconomic crisis and industrialization, poverty and inequality, regional integration, state reform and decentralization. Students work on individual research projects of their choosing. 6 cr., SS, Winter—A. Montero
POSC 323. Russian Government and Foreign Policy
This course will examine Russian politics and its Soviet roots, looking at both domestic policy formation and foreign policy activity. Emphasis on Soviet and post-Soviet periods, changes that have emerged since early 1990s, new forms of political participation, and new directions in international relations. Special attention to issues that have to do with economic development and the emerging relationships in Asia and Europe.
6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 324. Chinese Politics and Foreign Policy* An analysis of the sources of Chinese political behavior, emphasizing the People's Republic period, but touching also on historical, cultural and economic factors. The course will look at the Chinese revolutions, Maoist politics, and the aftermath of the Cultural Revolution before moving to an examination of modern Chinese politics and foreign policy. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 326. America's China Policy* This course examines the factors that shape United States policies toward China. Topics include the early relationships in the 1800s, the problems of the war years, and the strains of the People's Republic era. 6 cr., SS, Fall—R. Grow, B. Levin
POSC 327. The Politics of African Development
This course will focus on the politics of African development, although other regions' experiences will also be discussed. We will examine the ideological and institutional factors that affect development efforts and analyze how these factors have limited the effectiveness of development. We will discuss current issues as part of a broader historical and political analysis in an effort to understand the current state of political economic development in the developing world. 6 cr., SS, Winter—J. Westerhout
POSC 328. Foreign Policy Analysis* Foreign policy analysis is a distinct sub-field within international relations that focuses on explaining the actions and choices of actors in world politics. After a review of the historical development of the sub-field, we will explore approaches to foreign policy that emphasize the empirical testing of hypotheses that explain how policies and choices are formulated and implemented. The psychological sources of foreign policy decisions (including leaders' beliefs and personalities and the effect of decision-making groups) are a central theme. Completion of a lower level IR course and the stats/methods sequence is recommended. 6 cr., SS, Spring—G. Marfleet
POSC 329. Vietnam War and American Policy* This course will examine the factors which led to America's involvement in Vietnam. It will focus on the domestic and foreign policy issues which shaped America's perceptions and actions. It will also discuss the subsequent impact of the Vietnam experience on American foreign policy. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 330. The Complexity of Politics* Theories of complexity and emergence relate to how large-scale collective properties and characteristics of a system can arise from the behavior and attributes of component parts. This course explores the relevance of these concepts, studied mainly in physics and biology, for the social sciences. Students will explore agent-based modeling to discover emergent properties of social systems through computer simulations they create using NetLogo software. Reading and seminar discussion topics include conflict and cooperation, electoral competition, transmission of culture and social networks. Completion of the stats/methods sequence and some exposure to computer programming is highly recommended. 6 cr., SS, Fall—G. Marfleet
POSC 331. Urban Politics in Latin America Democratic elections have finally begun to penetrate metropolitan Latin America, offering the urban poor new avenues for demand making. In this research seminar, we will explore how the changing rules of political competition affect urban struggles for land, racial equality, and municipal representation. Focus on mayoral elections, squatter politics, and social movements in several major cities. For students with previous coursework in Latin American or urban politics. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 342. International Conflict and War* Will look at insights into large-scale conflict and war which can be obtained from the work of peace researchers, conflict resolution theorists, and international relations specialists. A persistent cause of war has been the readiness of societies to resort to force in order to reduce a perceived threat to their security, or to their political, sociocultural, or economic value systems. The scientific study of war is premised on the assumption that there are patterns and regularities in conflict behavior that can be identified systematically. State-, dyadic-, and system-level analyses of war will be examined, including mutual misperception, power asymmetries, and alliances. Both traditional and quantitative methods of inquiry (including correlates of war data) will be evaluated. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 343. Seminar in World Politics* This research seminar will provide students with a thorough review of major debates and literature in the field of world politics, including issues such as bargaining and conflict, democratic peace, strategic and structural approaches to international politics, international institutions, development and globalization, and open market international political economy. This course is designed to serve advanced political science students planning to take the comprehensive examination and answer world politics and international relations questions. The course also serves comps paper students interested in expanding their knowledge of the discipline. Finally, the course prepares students interested in pursuing graduate studies in world politics. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 344. America's War on International Terrorism* The "war on terror" has changed the logic and direction of America's foreign policy. This course examines America's war on international terror, the theoretical arguments and bureaucratic battles that shaped the policies, and the foreign policy processes that led to the emergence of a new doctrine. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 345. Guerillas, Warlords and Bandits: The Art of Asymmetric War*
Guerilla insurgencies are a special kind of war and present special problems for foreign policy formation and military response. This course looks at historical cases and theoretical propositions that range from Sun Zi The Art of War to Mao Zedong, Vo Nguyen Giap, and Che Guevara. Case studies from China, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, early United States, and South America. Examination of strategies based on Chinese game of WeiQi Go as opposed to western Chess. 6 cr., SS, Fall—R. Grow
POSC 346. Spies, Rogues and Statesmen: Intelligence and the Formation of Foreign Policy* Collecting and interpreting information--real and not-so-real--ripples across the making of defense strategy and foreign policy. This seminar examines the link between intelligence gathering and policy formation. Case studies from WWII, the Cold War, the Vietnam era, and the Iraqi Wars. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 350. Political Philosophy and the Book of Genesis*
Much of the moral and political architecture of the post-modern, secular world traces back to pre-modern, religious scriptures--especially Genesis, the first book of the Bible. For this reason alone Genesis deserves attention. But there are other reasons, too: with its accounts of creation, humanity's relation to nature and the divine, human aspiration and failure, the origins of community, and the good life for both individuals and societies, Genesis offers enormous riches even for those who approach it from an external philosophic standpoint (as we will in this class) rather than an internal religious one. Readings include Genesis and commentary. 6 cr., SS, Winter—L. Cooper
POSC 350. Problems in Political Philosophy* These seminars vary in topic and will explore the political theory expressed by a selected historical writer, including consideration of intellectual history, political purpose, and impact on contemporary political theory. The following sections will be offered 2005-2006: Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 350. Foundations of Black Political Thought
What do freedom and equality mean in a racially stratified society? This fundamental problem in American politics was first addressed by a group of black writers during the nineteenth century. Their writings gave birth to a tradition of political theory that continues to shape American political discourse. This course explores this tradition of black political thought, examining the concept of race and the genesis of the black nationalist, progressive and conservative traditions. Authors will include Frederick Douglass, W.E.B. Du Bois, Booker T. Washington, Alain Locke, and others. There are no prerequisites, but previous coursework in political theory is strongly recommended. 6 credits cr., SS, Spring—K. Smith
POSC 351. Political Theory of Martin Luther King, Jr.* This seminar will examine the speeches, writings, and life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Students will study King as an example of the responsible citizen envisioned by the theory expressed in The Federalist, as a contributor to the discourse of civil religion, and as a figure in recent American social history. Prerequisites: Political Science 122 or introductory history course. 6 cr., SS,RAD, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 352. Political Theory of Alexis de Tocqueville* An examination of the political theory of Alexis de Tocqueville, focusing on Democracy in America and The Old Regime and Revolution. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 353. Feminist and American Separatist Movements Within a feminist framework we will contrast social protest movements such as the Black Panther Party and Radical Zionism that appear to elevate racial or ethnic identity above gender concerns with lesbian feminist strategies that include an analysis of race and class as well as those feminist strategies that do not. In each case we will look at the multifaceted intersections of gender, race, class, and ethnicity. Prerequisite: Women's and Gender Studies 110 or Political Science 122. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 354. Feminist Political Theory This seminar will cover the major developments in feminist theory as that theory relates to authority (political) relationships. Liberal, radical, Marxist and socialist-feminist critiques and their antecedents in political philosophy will be analyzed in the course. Feminist theory applied to or derived from psychoanalysis, cognitive development, moral reasoning, and theology will also be discussed. Prerequisites: Women's and Gender Studies 110, Political Science 122, or any theory class. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 355. Contemporary Feminist Thought: Identity, Culture and Rights* This course will look at the contemporary debate in multiculturalism in the context of a variety of liberal philosophical traditions, including contractarians, libertarians, and Utilitarians. These views of the relationship of individual to community will be compared to those of the communitarian and egalitarian traditions. Research papers may use a number of feminist theory frameworks and methods. Prerequisites: Women's and Gender Studies 110 or any political theory, feminist philosophy, or political philosophy course. 6 credits cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 358. Comparative Social Movements* This course will examine the role that social movements play in political life. The first part of the course will critically review the major theories that have been developed to explain how social movements form, operate and seek to influence politics at both the domestic and international levels. In the second part of the course, these theoretical approaches will be used to explore a number of case studies involving social movements that span several different issue areas and political regions. Potential case studies include the transnational environmental movement, religious movements in Latin America and the recent growth of far right activism in northern Europe. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 359. Social Capital: Critical and Cross-Cultural Perspectives* "Social capital" is now being seen as key to effective democracy, and the answer to problems from crime to poverty to political apathy. This course will compare the conceptions of social and cultural capital proposed by Coleman, Bourdieu, and Putnam. It will examine critical issues: diversity, bonding vs. bridging ties, the "dark side" of social capital, cultural contexts and their implications, roles of government, and social capital as a policy framework. Class teams will have the opportunity to do case studies of social capital in Minnesota, Britain, and another quite different culture. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 360. Political Economy Seminar This seminar will use a number of contemporary theories to evaluate political economy phenomena. The class will include case studies, simulation exercises and field trips. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 362. Globalization and the State* We will examine how and to what extent the processes of globalization are changing notions and practices of state sovereignty. Given that scholars do not agree on the definition of either state sovereignty or globalization, this is no easy task. We will begin by examining the historic development of state since the seventeenth century and how notions of state sovereignty have changed, to better understand how economic integration, the communications revolution and the growing importance of global civil society (globalization) are (re)shaping states. We will explore how globalization influences state behavior in the international realm and within its own borders. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 363. Political Economy of Internal War* While occurrences of civil war have broadly declined worldwide over the past 30 years, in Africa they have been on the increase. Entire regions of Sub-Saharan Africa risk being perpetually mired in a cycle of violence and very slow or negative economic growth, despite natural wealth and efforts at political reform. This course will examine the political economy of civil wars in an effort to further our understanding of the economic and political factors that contribute to intrastate war. We will consider domestic and international aspects, utilizing several theoretical approaches in conjunction with case studies, historical, and empirical analysis. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 364. Capitalism and Its Critics*
This research seminar examines the major debates in studies of contemporary capitalism in advanced capitalist and developing countries around the world. Moving beyond the classic theoretical debates of liberal, Marxist, developmentalist, and post-industrial arguments, the seminar will focus on recent debates concerning changes in labor markets, class structures, production systems, political institutions and social distribution, corporate governance, the multilateral system (e.g., IMF, the World Bank), supranational entities such as the European Union, and critical approaches on economic development, including new studies of the informal labor market. (May be used for developing a comps project in Political Science or International Relations.) 6 cr., SS, Fall—A. Montero
POSC 365. People, Choice, and Resources: International Public Policy
This course considers important public policy issues facing the world today, such as privatization, decentralization, HIV, communications, and globalization, and explores some innovative possible solutions to problems in these areas. We will utilize the conceptual framework and analytic tools of institutional analysis, which gives a central role to context-sensitive institutions--cultural and social, formal and informal. 6 cr., SS, Spring—J. Westerhout
POSC 366. Urban Political Economy*
An examination of the power of capital in cities. Focus on goals and impact of urban renewal, downtown development, and competition with suburbs, other states and other countries. Is the local state a countervailing force to the interests of business and developers? Can citizen groups make a difference in development decisions? Are markets the best allocative mechanism for decisions about development priorities? Student research on local development issues, e.g., the Mall of America, sports stadia, and new airport proposals will be encouraged. The equivalent of a large research paper will be among the requirements for this course. 6 cr., SS, Spring—R. Keiser
POSC 367. Suburbanization in America The process of suburbanization transformed the United States in a revolutionary way, yet this was a quiet revolution. Both the causes and consequences of suburbanization can be found in the country's politics, race relations, economy, literature and popular imagery, architecture and design, and our definition of community. This course will take an explicitly interdisciplinary approach to these topics. Prerequisite: Political Science 122 or American Studies 345. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 378. Beijing Program: Chinese Social and Political Institutions On-site examination and evaluation of important institutions (i.e., banks, hospitals, environment offices, middle schools, etc.) that shape the Chinese economic and political process. Students may take this course or optional 3-credit Chinese language course that is taught at three levelsdepending on the student's proficiency. 3 cr., SS, Spring—R. Grow
POSC 379. Beijing Program: Chinese Decision Making This course would be based on simulation exercisewhich is already part of the seminar--but restructured and expanded to place exercise in more exact theoretical frame. 3 cr., SS, Spring—R. Grow
POSC 381. Beijing Program: Politics of Economic Development This is a cross-disciplinary program in which students from different academic departments analyze the economy of China, investigate the government institutions that develop and shape Chinese policy, and meet the people who make policy work. The seminar will combine classroom study with visits to economic agencies, government organizations, and industrial and commercial sites. 6 cr., SS, Spring—R. Grow
POSC 382. Beijing Program: Chinese Economics in Transition This course introduces the student to China's historical, political, and economic development in the twentieth century. The primary framework applied is an analysis of the strategies and outcomes of economic development within the context of a particular socialist economic and political system. While focusing mainly on political-economic philosophies within real economic constraints. Prerequisites: Economics 110 and 111. 6 cr., SS, Spring—Non-Carleton faculty
POSC 383. Maastricht Program: Politics of the European Union This course examines the formation, development, institutions, laws, and policies of the European Union, with special emphasis on current issues arising from the Maastricht and Amsterdam Treaty revisions in the 1990s. Students will be divided into smaller groups to focus on different policy areas during the last two weeks of the course. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 385. Comparative Democratic Institutions* Surveys major debates concerning alternative democratic institutions in place and proposed for established and developing democracies around the world. Students will examine debates concerning the merits of parliamentary and presidential systems, various electoral regimes, political party systems, models of consociationalism in multi-ethnic societies, and alternative administrative structures such as federal and unitary states. Taught as a research seminar in which students will engage their own original research project. In addition to classroom discussion, students will participate in a number of adversarial four-on-four debates on particular resolutions throughout the term. The professor will train students in oral presentation skills, the art of rejoinder in debates, the use of strategy and the organization of adversarial debates. 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 387. Maastricht Program: The Europe of Regions* This research seminar examines the issues facing subnational political economies as they face European integration. The course will investigate the diverse paths of the European regions with an emphasis on the role of EU regional policy and subnational politics. Students will work in research groups and conduct fieldwork in two subnational regions during the term. This iteration will emphasize the study of subnational regions in Germany and Spain, but students will also be free to choose additional regions from other candidate countries (e.g., Italy, France, etc.). 6 cr., SS, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 392. Maastricht Program: Comparative Field Research Methods 3 cr., ND, Not offered in 2005-2006.
POSC 400. Integrative Exercise 6 cr., S/NC, ND, Fall,Winter,Spring—Staff