2016-2017 Academic Catalog 
    
    Jun 02, 2024  
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2016-2017 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Courses

 
  

  • PHYS 150 - Statistical and Thermal Physics

    Introduces the concepts of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics with the goal of understanding the behavior of macroscopic systems on the basis of microscopic theory. Topics include probability, entropy and the second law of thermodynamics, the Boltzmann probability distribution, heat and work, and the first and second law efficiencies of simple engines.

    Prerequisites: PHYS 130 .

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered in alternate years.
  

  • PHYS 160 - Classical Mechanics

    PHYS 160 and PHYS 161  constitute an introduction to the concepts of classical physics at the intermediate level. Topics include particle and rigid body dynamics in inertial and noninertial reference frames. The necessary mathematical methods are introduced and applied.

    Prerequisites: MATH 131  and  PHYS 111  or PHYS 121 .

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered in alternate years.
  

  • PHYS 161 - Electricity and Magnetism

    Continuation of PHYS 160 . Topics include electro- and magnetostatics and electrodynamics through Maxwell’s quations and relativity. Develops useful mathematical methods.

    Prerequisites: PHYS 160 .

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered in alternate years.
  

  • PHYS 167 - Fluid Mechanics and Applications

    Fluids refer to liquid and gas state of matter which covers more than 70% of the surface of the Earth and all of atmosphere. This course will explore the physics of fluids, and doing calculations using analytical and numerical techniques in weekly instructor led discussion sessions, and a semester long group based project. The project will include building a table top demonstration, and making a video presentation. Examples of project topics include water, oil and gas processing in industry, designing robots that swim, water purification, and more.

    Prerequisites: Introductory calculus, Phys 160

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered Bi-annually
  

  • PHYS 169 - Information Theory, Inference, and Networks

    This course will explore the basic concepts of Information theory – a topic that lies at the heart of many exciting areas of contemporary science and engineering – and its applications to statistical inference and network theory. Topics covered in the course include entropy as a measure of information, mutual information, information transmission and communication through noiseless or noisy channels, maximum likelihood methods for data analysis, and neural network models. The basic concepts developed will be applied to examples from a wide range of academic fields such as data compression and storage, biophysics, signal processing, neuroscience, machine learning, and finance, where information theory can be related to the theory of optimal investment in the stock market. Finally we will discuss how methods from information theory can be used to study and quantify interaction networks, a subject that lies at the heart of the modern science of complex systems.

    Prerequisites: Math 120 or Math 124, and Math 121 or Math 125

    Anticipated Terms Offered: varied
  

  • PHYS 171 - Introduction to Quantum Mechanics

    Intermediate-level course providing an introduction to quantum mechanics and its applications to atoms, nuclei, molecules, and solids.

    Prerequisites: PHYS 131  and MATH 131 .

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered in alternate years.
  

  • PHYS 201 - Classical Dynamics

    Designed to prepare students for graduate work in physics. Topics include Hamilton’s principle, classical scattering theory, rigid body motion, canonical transformations, Hamilton-Jacobi theory, and mathematical methods of physics. Lectures are the same as PHYS 301 , but the assignments and evaluation are separate.

    Prerequisites: PHYS 160  and PHYS 161 .

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every fall
  

  • PHYS 202 - Electrodynamics

    Designed to prepare students for graduate work in physics. Topics include boundary value problems in electrostatics and magnetostatics, electromagnetic-field equations and special relativity, electromagnetic waves, radiation theory, multipole fields, and mathematical methods of physics. Lectures are the same as PHYS 302 , but the assignments and evaluation are separate.

    Prerequisites: PHYS 161 .

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every spring
  

  • PHYS 205 - Quantum Mechanics – Part I

    PHYS 205 and PHYS 206  constitute a comprehensive introduction to the concepts of quantum mechanics and their application in physics and chemistry. Sequence prepares students for graduate work. Lectures are the same as in PHYS 305 , but the assignments and evaluation are separate.

    Prerequisites: PHYS 171  and MATH 131 .

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every fall.
  

  • PHYS 206 - Quantum Mechanics – Part II

    PHYS 206 is a continuation of PHYS 205.

    Prerequisites: PHYS 205.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every spring.
  

  • PHYS 209 - Statistical Mechanics

    Designed to prepare students for graduate work in physics. The lectures are the same as in PHYS 309 , but the assignments and evaluation are separate.

    Prerequisites: PHYS 150  and PHYS 171 .

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every fall.
  

  • PHYS 219 - Electronics Laboratory

    Examines principles of modern electrical measurement and control. Introduces DC- and AC-circuit theory and use of test instruments such as multimeters and the oscilloscope. Emphasizes electronic circuit design, operational amplifiers and digital circuits. Two lectures and one laboratory each week. Suitable for intermediate-level undergraduates and graduate students in the sciences.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PHYS 230 - Advanced Topics in Condensed Matter Physics

    The second half of the twentieth century has seen important new paradigms in physics. In this course, we will explore some of the central paradigms in the context of condensed matter physics. I will apply the concepts of broken symmetry and order parameters, which have emerged as unifying concepts in physics, to provide the framework of this course. We will begin by characterizing the structure and symmetries of condensed matter systems, then develop Landau-Ginzburg theories to model such systems and to provide a framework to explore the relation between order parameter, broken symmetry, and thermal fluctuations. We will use these ideas to study a wide range of condensed matter systems that include liquids, crystalline solids, exotic states of matter such as liquid crystals, superconductors, and quantum magnets. We will also introduce concepts that are important in other areas of physics, such as the Higgs mechanism and the generation of mass, that play a central role in particle physics. The prerequisites for this course are statistical mechanics and quantum mechanics (or instructor’s permission). A previous course in solid state physics is not needed.

    Prerequisites: P = PHYS 150.  Undergraduate (or graduate) statistical mechanics and quantum mechanics or instructor’s permission.

    Corequisites: None.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Spring 2014
  

  • PHYS 243 - Technology of Renewable Energy

     
    This course is designed to give an overview of the technical issues confronting the conversion of the world’s fossil fuel economy to one where the major sources of energy are sustainable. The pros and cons of major renewable energy sources (such as solar and wind) will be discussed, along with some of the less universal sources such as tides and geothermal, including, of course, efficiency, the hidden energy resource. No discussion of renewables is complete without a good understanding of the electrical grid, which is central to the implementation of renewable energy. The present grid is designed for a smaller number of large generating stations and relatively constant power generation and loads. The renewable grid will have many smaller energy sources, as small as single solar panels on the top of telephone poles, and also rapidly fluctuating sources, as when winds gust through wind turbines, and clouds cover and uncover solar panels. Through lecture and demonstration we will learn how a nationwide energy network might work in the future. This course is designed for science and non-science majors alike, however math skills including algebra and trigonometry will be expected.
     
    Over the past two years a small microgrid consisting of solar panels, a wind turbine, batteries, and LED lights has been built at Clark.  A main focus of this course will be on the design and building of the microgrid, and related projects and issues. This will require significant time, outside class, to work on building the microgrid system. We will be building physical systems, such as mounting solar panels and working to connect electrical systems, in order to control and measure the energy flows in our microgrid. We will need computer programs for controlling the system and to analyze data, and we also will need web pages for our own monitoring and in order to display the system to others. 
     
    There will be a significant hands on component to this class, in addition to regular homework assignments. Each student will be expected to spend about three hours a week during an afternoon, preferably Tuesday or Friday, working on the project. Please consider this time commitment carefully when you sign up for this course.
     

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Fall
  

  • PHYS 290 - Senior Seminar

    This capstone covers a selection of topics of current interest in physics.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PHYS 297 - Honors

    Readings and research for students in the honors program. May be repeatable for credit.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Every Semester
  

  • PHYS 299 - Directed Studies in Physics

    Independent student work in physics with the guidance of a faculty adviser. With permission of the instructor, students may enroll for senior capstone or honors projects, directed readings in areas not covered in regular courses, or independent research in theoretical, experimental or applied physics. Offered for variable credit. PHYS 299 may be taken more than once.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester.
  

  • PHYS 301 - Classical Dynamics

    Graduate-level course in classical mechanics. Topics are similar to PHYS 201 , but are treated in greater depth.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every fall
  

  • PHYS 302 - Classical Electrodynamics

    Graduate-level course in classical electromagnetism. Topics are similar to PHYS 202 , but are treated in greater depth.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every spring
  

  • PHYS 303 - Research Apprenticeship

    Students participate actively in an experimental or theoretical research group. Ph.D. students enroll in the course for three semesters with a minimum of one semester in a theoretical group and one semester in an experimental group. M.A. students take a minimum of one semester.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PHYS 305 - Quantum Mechanics – Part I

    PHYS 305 and PHYS 306  offer a comprehensive introduction to quantum mechanics and its application in physics and chemistry. Topics include the foundations of quantum mechanics, symmetries and angular momentum, particle in a central potential, electron spin, and perturbation theory.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every fall
  

  • PHYS 306 - Quantum Mechanics – Part II

    PHYS 306 is a continuation of PHYS 305 . Topics include scattering theory, interaction of radiation with matter, second quantization, applications to simple atoms and molecules, and an introduction to many-body theory.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every spring
  

  • PHYS 309 - Statistical Mechanics

    Examines statistical mechanics with applications to physical systems. Topics include ensemble theory, the statistical basis of thermodynamics, quantum statistics, the virial expansion of a classical gas, ideal Bose and Fermi systems, the renormalization group, and fluctuations.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every fall
  

  • PHYS 310 - Condensed Matter Physics

    Examines experimental properties and the quantum theory of solids. Topics include crystal and reciprocal lattice structures, the free-electron theory of metals, electronic band structure and the Fermi surface, lattice vibrations and the elementary excitations of solids.

    Prerequisites: PHYS 305  or permission of instructor.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every spring
  

  • PHYS 317 - Research

    This is a variable unit, graduate course for students engaged in research at the PhD level.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Every semester, including summers
  

  • PHYS 319 - Advanced Electronics Laboratory

    Similar to PHYS 219 , but more advanced. Topics are treated in greater depth. Suitable for graduate students in the sciences.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PHYS 320 - Advanced Seminar in Physics

    Provides for special coverage of topics in physics of current research interest.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PHYS 327 - Advanced Computer Simulation Laboratory

    Similar to PHYS127 but more advanced. Suitable for graduate students in the sciences or undergraduates who have completed PHYS127.

    Prerequisites: PHYS127 or instructor permission.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PHYS 330 - Advanced Topics in Condensed Matter Physics

    The second half of the twentieth century has seen important new paradigms in physics. In this course, we will explore some of the central paradigms in the context of condensed matter physics. I will apply the concepts of broken symmetry and order parameters, which have emerged as unifying concepts in physics, to provide the framework of this course. We will begin by characterizing the structure and symmetries of condensed matter systems, then develop Landau-Ginzburg theories to model such systems and to provide a framework to explore the relation between order parameter, broken symmetry, and thermal fluctuations. We will use these ideas to study a wide range of condensed matter systems that include liquids, crystalline solids, exotic states of matter such as liquid crystals, superconductors, and quantum magnets. We will also introduce concepts that are important in other areas of physics, such as the Higgs mechanism and the generation of mass, that play a central role in particle physics. The prerequisites for this course are statistical mechanics and quantum mechanics (or instructor’s permission). A previous course in solid state physics is not needed.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Spring 2014
  

  • PHYS 343 - Technology of Renewable Energy

     This course is designed to give an overview of the technical issues confronting the conversion of the world’s fossil fuel economy to one where the major sources of energy are sustainable. The pros and cons of major renewable energy sources (such as solar and wind) will be discussed, along with some of the less universal sources such as tides and geothermal, including, of course, efficiency, the hidden energy resource. No discussion of renewables is complete without a good understanding of the electrical grid, which is central to the implementation of renewable energy. The present grid is designed for a smaller number of large generating stations and relatively constant power generation and loads. The renewable grid will have many smaller energy sources, as small as single solar panels on the top of telephone poles, and also rapidly fluctuating sources, as when winds gust through wind turbines, and clouds cover and uncover solar panels. Through lecture and demonstration we will learn how a nationwide energy network might work in the future. This course is designed for science and non-science majors alike, however math skills including algebra and trigonometry will be expected.
     
    Over the past two years a small microgrid consisting of solar panels, a wind turbine, batteries, and LED lights has been built at Clark.  A main focus of this course will be on the design and building of the microgrid, and related projects and issues. This will require significant time, outside class, to work on building the microgrid system. We will be building physical systems, such as mounting solar panels and working to connect electrical systems, in order to control and measure the energy flows in our microgrid. We will need computer programs for controlling the system and to analyze data, and we also will need web pages for our own monitoring and in order to display the system to others. 
     
    There will be a significant hands on component to this class, in addition to regular homework assignments. Each student will be expected to spend about three hours a week during an afternoon, preferably Tuesday or Friday, working on the project. Please consider this time commitment carefully when you sign up for this course.
     

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Fall
  

  • PHYS 367 - Fluid Mechanics and Applications

    Fluids refer to liquid and gas state of matter which covers more than 70% of the surface of the Earth and all of atmosphere. This course will explore the physics of fluids, and doing calculations using analytical and numerical techniques in weekly instructor led discussion sessions, and a semester long group based project. The project will include building a table top demonstration, and making a video presentation. Examples of project topics include water, oil and gas processing in industry, designing robots that swim, water purification, and more.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PHYS 369 - Information Theory, Inference, and Networks

    This course will explore the basic concepts of Information theory – a topic that lies at the heart of many exciting areas of contemporary science and engineering – and its applications to statistical inference and network theory. Topics covered in the course include entropy as a measure of information, mutual information, information transmission and communication through noiseless or noisy channels, maximum likelihood methods for data analysis, and neural network models. The basic concepts developed will be applied to examples from a wide range of academic fields such as data compression and storage, biophysics, signal processing, neuroscience, machine learning, and finance, where information theory can be related to the theory of optimal investment in the stock market. Finally we will discuss how methods from information theory can be used to study and quantify interaction networks, a subject that lies at the heart of the modern science of complex systems.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Every other year
  

  • PHYS 390 - Colloquium

    Weekly invited lecturers speak on current research topics. Required for all graduate students and recommended for undergraduates involved in research. Not offered for credit.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every semester
  

  • PHYS 394 - Ph.D. Dissertation Writing

    This is a variable unit, graduate course for students engaged in writing a Ph.D. Dissertation.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Every semester, including summers.
  

  • PHYS 399 - Directed Study

    Directed research in physics under the supervision of a faculty adviser. Graduate students may enroll for research in theoretical, experimental, or computational physics. Offered for variable credit. PHYS 399 may be taken more than once.
  

  • PHYS 1010 - Introductory Physics I

    This is an introductory level course stressing both conceptual understanding and problem solving skills. This is a survey course for undergraduate students irrespective of their major. The course stresses the simplicity and self-consistency of physical models in explaining a variety of physical phenomena. Topics include Newtonian mechanics, Mechanical Waves and a brief introduction to the thermal properties of matter. Calculus is not required, but elements of algebra and trigonometry are reviewed and utilized. PHYS 1010, with PHYS 1020, fulfills the usual entrance equiremnets for medical and dental schools. Labs are integrated within the course frame work, and will be conducted at the same classroom where lectures are held. Computer simulations will be utilized to enhance students’ understanding of course topics. Contact COPACE for lab fee information.

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: SP (summer only)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: varies
  

  • PHYS 1020 - Introductory Physics II

    This course is a continuation of PHYS 1010. Topics include: Electricity, Magnetism, Optics and a brief account of modern physics. The PHYS 1010-1020 sequence is designed to fulfill most of the science perspective of the usual entrance exam requirements for medical and dental schools. Calculus is not required, but elements of algebra and trigonometry are reviewed and utilized. Labs are integrated within the course frame work, and will be conducted at the same classroom where lectures are held. Computer simulations will be utilized to enhance students’ understanding of course topics. Contact COPACE for lab fee information.

    Prerequisites: Introduction to Physics I.

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: SP (summer only)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: varies
  

  • PSCI 050 - Introduction to American Government

    Introduces the American governmental system. Overviews contemporary structure, operation and performance of national institutions, including the courts. Addresses American political culture, voting and elections, the evolution of federalism, law and politics, and important public issues, such as civil rights, civil liberties and economic change.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 069 - Introduction to International Relations

    Introduction to International Relations. This survey course offers an introduction to the study of international relations beginning with a discussion of the primary approaches to world politics: Realism, Liberalism, and Constructivism. Each approach can account for the nature of the international system and the actors within it. The course discusses how these attempts to understand world politics/international relations are generally divided into three “levels of analysis”: individual, domestic/state, and system. The course applies these concepts to key events in the recent history of world politics, including World War I, World War II, and the Cold War. The course focuses on the post-Cold War period and the role of international law, international organizations, security, economics, and social issues such as the environment, gender and human rights.

    (IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 070 - Introduction to Comparative Politics

    The study of comparative politics is based upon the premise that we can better understand domestic political dynamics and political phenomena in general, by comparing political conditions across and within (subnational units) countries. Specifically, comparative politics investigates the following types of questions: In what ways do groups and individuals participate in politics? Why have some countries developed stable democratic political systems, while others remain authoritarian or experience frequent changes in government? What relationship does a country’s political organization have with its economic performance, social stability and relations with other countries? In exploring these questions, we will compare both developed and developing countries in terms of political institutions (constitutions, executives, legislatures, courts and political parties), political behavior (voting and collective action), political culture and political economy.

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: GP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 079 - Model United Nations I

    The Model United Nations program is a realistic simulation of the activities of ambassadors and representatives of different member nations who serve in various agencies of the United Nations. Students assume the role of ambassadors or special U.N. representatives. They participate in live simulations of the U.N. Security Council, Economic Social and Cultural Council, and Special Middle East Summit. Students participate in the Harvard Model U.N. Conference every year. During this conference, Clark students known as delegates enter the world of diplomacy, negotiation and high politics as they grapple with complex realities of peace and security, human rights, women’s rights and economic development, and they pit their skills against delegates from other universities representing different countries. Delegates prepare by thoroughly researching policy positions of countries they are representing and contribute to a lively exchange of ideas and simulate an authentic environment that parallels U.N. meetings. This active-learning experience complements classroom learning and prepares Clark students to enter a professional career in government, international organizations or the academe. Repeat registration allowed.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 080 - Model United Nations II

    The Model United Nations program is a realistic simulation of the activities of ambassadors and representatives of different member nations who serve in various agencies of the United Nations. Students assume the role of ambassadors or special U.N. representatives. They participate in live simulations of the U.N. Security Council, Economic Social and Cultural Council, and Special Middle East Summit. Students participate in the Harvard Model U.N. Conference every year. During this conference, Clark students known as delegates enter the world of diplomacy, negotiation and high politics as they grapple with complex realities of peace and security, human rights, women’s rights and economic development, and they pit their skills against delegates from other universities representing different countries. Delegates prepare by thoroughly researching policy positions of countries they are representing and contribute to a lively exchange of ideas and simulate an authentic environment that parallels U.N. meetings. This active-learning experience complements classroom learning and prepares Clark students to enter a professional career in government, international organizations or the academe. Repeat registration allowed.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 091 - The Politics of Food

    How are policies surrounding food production and nutrition developed? Who influences these policy decisions and in what ways?  What are some of the consequences of these policies, as well as other efforts to promote healthy and sustainable food production?  What are some of the ethical issues surrounding food production and consumption?  How can we understand the recent rise in interest for local, organic food? Should the government actively promote these food choices?  This class will explore these questions, studying the ways that the U.S. government designs and implements policies and programs to ensure an affordable and nutritionally adequate food supply.   In the process, we will also look at some of the social, cultural, economic, ethical, and institutional factors that influence agriculture, food, and nutrition policies, programs, and choices.

    (US)

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: VP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PSCI 093 - International Human Rights

    This first-year seminar examines the evolution and development of international human rights norms and the design of legal instruments, such as the international criminal court and ad-hoc tribunals, to protect and promote human rights across the globe. The course seeks to introduce students to the study of human rights from an international relations perspective with emphasis on international law and organizations. The major focus of the course will be on issues such as slavery, genocide, child rights, women’s political empowerment, discrimination, death penalty, economic rights, and civil and political liberties. Overall, emphasis of this course will be on understanding the impact of human rights norms on interstate relations, how human rights norms shapes the foreign policy of nation-states, and how states respond to international regime pressure.

    (IR)

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: GP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 094 - Dictators and Revolutionaries in Latin America

    This first-year seminar studies the stereotype of the Latin American military dictator or the leftist revolutionary which has become commonplace in contemporary culture. Whether it is the right-wing autocrat clad in Prussian-style military dress - General Augusto Pinochet of Chile or Alfredo Stroessner of Paraguay, for example, or leftist revolutionaries such as Fidel Castro and Ché Guevarra, bearded and combat ready in military fatigues, these stereotypical images convey to us in shorthand form understandings about Latin American society. They convey or reinforce the image of a militaristic and violent society, politically passionate and ideologically polarized. They convey the image of a society where the use of force trumps the rule of law. As with all stereotypes, there is more than a grain of truth in these characterizations but also much insight or understanding that they foreclose. In particular, such stereotyping begs the question as to why Latin America’s modern political history is rife with examples of political violence and extremism emanating from both ends of the political spectrum. This course seeks to enable students to answer this question. More broadly, it seeks to help students to develop their analytical skills and theoretical understandings of reactionary and revolutionary political movements. While the regional focus will be on Latin America, the skills development will be global in its applicability. Ultimately, the skills that students develop in this course should enhance their ability to think critically about contemporary incidents of political violence and inform their actions as concerned citizens.

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: GP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSCI 096 - Just and Unjust Wars

     

    This first-year seminar examines significant questions such as - why states and societies go to war, whether doing so is ever justified, and what (if anything) might make it so.  Students will be afforded the opportunity to explore a range of historical and contemporary armed conflicts through the lens of the political, moral, ethical, and legal criteria which constitute the basis of the ‘laws of war’ as well as the international conventions and norms derived from them.  Particular attention will be paid to the dilemmas associated with the decision to go to war, conduct during war, and war’s aftermath.  Students will engage with these and related dilemmas through consideration of specific examples including (but not limited to) preemptive war, wars of self-defense, humanitarian intervention, peacekeeping and peace operations, terrorism and wars of national liberation, the status of non-combatants and non-state actors, and the rebuilding of post-conflict societies.

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: VP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: -
  

  • PSCI 097 - The International Relations of Sports

     

     

    Political Scientists spend considerable time researching and interpreting the relationships between nation-states, primarily international conflict and cooperation. Sports are one way to demonstrate those relationships between states. One need only think of the Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup, for example, to reflect how players and spectators interpret sports within the context of national identities and international rivalries. Moreover, the international relations of sports is also gendered. With its focus on physical strength, camaraderie and competition, sports have long been understood as a benchmark for masculinity. This course will explore and examine several facets that connect the Political Science subfield/discipline of international relations with sports: globalization, diplomacy, war/conflict, identity and place, and the intersectionality of race, ethnicity, and gender.

     

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: GP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 104 - Politics of Ethnicity and Identity

    This course explores the ways in which ethnic and other political identities both shape and are shaped by historical processes and political narratives. In particular, we will examine the formation of racial, ethnic, and national identities from a range of theoretical perspectives. We will also look at how these identities are mobilized for political purposes and discuss the origins of and possible solutions to the phenomenon of ethnic conflict.

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: GP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: -
  

  • PSCI 107 - Research Methods

    Considers the logic of the research process, from formulating and stating testable hypotheses and operationalizing concepts to collecting and analyzing appropriate data. Explores both concepts and techniques, including statistical analysis. Students design research projects that include original data analysis.

    BY PERM ONLY

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: FA

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EACH SEMESTER
  

  • PSCI 108 - American Political Development

    American Political Development (or APD) is a dynamic and growing subfield in Political Science that seeks to identify historical patterns and explain change over time, with a special emphasis on American political institutions and practices. This introductory course will explore cultural phenomena like race, religion, and citizenship in the American political context. It will also look at the growth of the American national government over time. Because this is a broad introductory survey course, we will be covering a wide range of historical political subjects including: the Constitution, Federalism, Congress, the Presidency, the Supreme Court, Parties, Race, and the American South. The course is part of the Law & Society program as well as American politics subfield of political science.

    (US)

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: HP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Periodically
  

  • PSCI 117 - Revolution and Political Violence

    Analyzes the concept, the causes and process of revolution. Is revolution inevitable? How does it differ from terrorism, guerrilla warfare or coups? This course examines the Russian and Chinese revolutions as 20th-century prototypes; comparisons are then drawn to more recent revolutions in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Latin America and South Africa.

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: GP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 121 - State Government and Politics

     

    In this introduction to the study of state government and politics in the United States, we will explore the how state governments impact a wide array of aspects of peoples’ lives, from driving a car, to marriage and family, to protecting the environment, and many others. What is the relationship between the politics of the fifty states and the politics of the nation as a whole? Do innovations in public policy flow from the states to Washington, from Washington to the states, or some of each? Who are the people who run for state elective office, and what motivates them to run and to serve? What role do money, media, and citizen activism play in influencing state laws and policies, and does this differ from state to state? The class will include both lectures and class discussions.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PSCI 144 - Religion and International Relations

    This course will introduce students to the theoretical approaches in international relations and their application for understanding the connection between religion, secularism, and international relations. Using historical and contemporary cases, the course examines the impact of religion, secularism, and globalization on interstate relations, war, and peace. Questions to be considered include: How do we understand religion’s impact on international relations? How do religion and secularism affect state behavior? How do religion and secularism relate to globalization? The course will look at the relationship between religion and other aspects of international relations, including human rights, gender, nationalism, modernity, democracy, and ethnic conflict.

    (IR)

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: GP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 146 - The United Nations and International Politics

    The objective of this course is to develop a solid understanding of the United Nations; its organizational structure; major actors in the UN System; and its policies and programs. This course will be particularly useful for students interested in the Model UN progam. In this semester long course, we will examine the impact of the United Nations within the international state system. The focus will be on the scope and reach, general procedures, legitimacy of the United Nations, and the complex roles the different UN Secretary Generals play in international politics. In this course, we will also examine the role of the United Nations in brokering international peace, resolving conflicts, and analyze the UN peacekeeping and humanitarian operations.

    (IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: ANNUALLY
  

  • PSCI 147 - World Order and Globalization

    Explores the ways in which states have attempted to establish order in an anarchical international system. An overriding challenge to the existing world order, particularly in the post-Cold War period, comes from globalization (economic, political, social issues). Is globalization leading toward a single system of values, or fragmenting into incompatible pockets of pluralist identities?

    (IR)

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: GP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: ANNUALLY
  

  • PSCI 154 - Introduction to Public Policy in the United States

    Where do policy ideas originate? How do coalitions form in support or opposition to a policy? Do the dynamics of policy making vary across issues? Focuses on understanding public-policy development and implementation at the national level in the United States, including why some policies fail to develop or why they fail to take effect as intended. Includes assessment of prominent theories of policy development and in-depth analysis of cases. PSCI 050  strongly recommended.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 155 - Roots of Political Thought

    Western political thought from the classic Greek period to early modern liberalism and socialism is analyzed through contributions by major thinkers: Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau and Marx.

    (THEORY)

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: VP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 157 - U.S. Environmental Politics

    Why have environmental policies emerged or failed to emerge? What is distinctive about the politics of environmental issues? Primary focus is national environmental politics and policy making in the United States. Examines the character of policy action, public ideas, political leadership and institutional development across several prominent environmental issues. Assignments emphasize class discussion, oral presentations, group simulations and short written analyses.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 159 - Political Participation in the U.S.

    In this class we will consider the different types of political activity in which American citizens engage, evidence regarding changes in Americans’ political participation over time, and techniques that have been proposed to increase political participation. We will consider survey research on who participates in different types of activities, considering the role of, among other things, race, gender, education and income. We will then study different types of participation, including voting, interest group membership, jury service, and membership in religious and public-service organizations.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 161 - Women, Politics and Public Policy

    How has the importance of gender in politics changed over time? Must women represent women? Can men also represent women? Do women and men participate politically in different ways? Why is there a persistent gender gap in political leadership? Do women campaign differently than men? Do women govern differently than men? What are “women’s issues”? Do they affect all women equally? This course explores these and other questions, drawing on a range of literature from political science and public policy as well as non-academic news sources. We will also investigate varying ways in which the categories of gender, race and ethnicity, and other politically-relevant categories intersect. Finally, we will analyze how a range of public policies may affect men and women differently, focusing specifically on contemporary policy debates.

    formerly PSCI 221

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: VP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PSCI 171 - Urban Politics: People, Power and Conflict in U.S. Cities

    Focuses on the major socioeconomic and political forces that affect city, government and politics in the United States. Topics include: the growth and decline of cities; fiscal constraints; federal urban policies; the rise and demise of political machines; reforms; the post-Reform Era; the community power debate; regimes and coalition building; and efforts by African-Americans and Latinos to gain political incorporation.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 173 - Latin-American Politics

    As an introduction to the study of Latin-American politics, this course demands no prerequisites except a basic curiosity about the region and a desire to learn about its development over the past century. In an effort to understand contemporary politics in the region, we consider alternative theoretical explanations for patterns of development as well as analyze the historical role played by influential political actors, including the Church, the military, economic elites, workers and peasants. Some of the fundamental questions we will be asking include: What is the relationship between a country’s social and economic conditions and its political system? Why have so many Latin-American nations alternated between democratic and authoritarian regimes? What is the relationship between Latin America and the so-called “First World,” particularly the United States? In attempts to answer these questions, the course will examine the political systems of countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Guatemala.

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: GP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 174 - Middle East Politics

    An introduction to the politics of the Middle East, including the countries of the Levant, the Gulf and North Africa. We will discuss the political challenges and evolution of individual states, as well as regional issues such as ethnic and religious communal rivalries, authoritarianism and transitions to democracy, the role of oil in shaping regional politics, and the impact of both nonviolent civil society and violent nonstate actors.

    (CP)

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: GP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY YEAR
  

  • PSCI 177 - Transitions to Democracy

    How can a dictatorship become a democracy? What challenges face countries emerging from repressive rule? Using firsthand accounts, historical analyses and contemporary films, this course explores the role of grassroots movements, elites and the international context in struggles to create and sustain democracy. The focus will be on transitions from totalitarian and authoritarian regimes in Europe and military dictatorships in Latin America.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 179 - Asian Politics

    This class is an introduction to the complex history and dynamic politics of Asian countries.  The countries of Asia are highly diverse, so this introductory course will necessarily be broad rather than deep, and will focus primarily on the major powers in Asia.  The course will focus on the history and politics of selected states, including China, Japan, and South Korea, with a particular emphasis on their political-economic choices and efforts (successful or otherwise) to democratize. 

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Once a year
  

  • PSCI 180 - International Organizations

    International Organizations (IOs) have grown in size, number, and institutional capacity since the end of the Second World War to address various policy matters in the area of economics, trade, taxation, finance, intellectual property rights, environment, human rights, international security, and humanitarian intervention. The increasing complexity of the global political economy has made policy coordination and harmonization through international organizations absolutely necessary because of the absence of a centralized governing authority at the international level. As the demand for IOs have increased, they have also become more controversial and divisive with supporters seeking to strengthen them, while detractors are attempting to modulate their influence. This course will explore the complex roles international organizations play in navigating international politics and mediating transnational policy issues by concentrating on a select set of international organizations that are central to the day-to-day functioning of the global political economy.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSCI 182 - International Security

    This course aims to provide an intellectual footing as well as the analytical tools necessary to understand and evaluate the concept and evolution of security as well as the origins and characteristics of major security threats confronting the international community. The course will explore differing interpretations of and approaches to international security, while also analyzing and critically evaluating a range of both ‘traditional’ and ‘new’ security threats and the utility and effectiveness of prevailing responses to those threats.

    (IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 193 - International Relations of Asia

    The focus of this course will be on international relations of Asia broadly conceptualized from Afghanistan-Pakistan-India to China, Japan, Korea, and the smaller states of South-East Asia, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore. In this course we will examine the complex inter-linkages from South Asia through the Asia Pacific region focusing on such aspects as the conflict in the Korean Peninsula, particularly the impact of rogue behavior of North Korea on South Korea and Japan and its implications for U.S.-China, U.S.-Korea, and U.S.-Japan relations; cross-straits (China-Taiwan) relations, and we will especially examine the growing economic and military assertiveness of China both within and outside the Asian region. The triangular competitive relationship involving Pakistan-India-China will also be studied; in particular we will focus on how the complex set of relations in South Asia involving Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, United States, and China dynamics the international politics of the region. Beyond this dynamic, we also examine the implications of the emergence of China and India as major economic and military powers. In addition, we will always keep the focus on the intersection of foreign relations of Asian countries with the dominant superpower, the United States and to some extent on the European Union. Besides China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong (PRC), the Asia-Pacific region includes the ASEAN powers of Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, and Brunei, and the Indo-China states of Burma, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Increasingly the economic and political relations of Australia and New Zealand are intertwined with the fortunes of the Asia-Pacific region; so we will touch upon these issues in peripheral manner. In this course we will draw both from the theoretical as well as the empirical literature on international relations while keeping our focus on Asia.

    (IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 204 - The American Presidency

    Examines the president’s changing role in American politics, evolution of the modern presidency, selection and nomination process, relationships with other political institutions and presidential character. Explores proposed reforms for the future.

    (US)

    Prerequisites: PSCI 050  or permission of instructor.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 205 - U.S. Campaigns and Elections

    Examines election and campaigns from a number of different perspectives: the theoretical underpinnings of American elections, their historical development, the rules by which campaigns are governed, and the strategies that candidates follow in pursuit of office. Although the focus is almost exclusively on national (presidential and congressional) elections, it is the goal of the course to examine the process of elections from a standpoint that will enable students to understand and analyze the electoral process at various levels of government. The primary system, the role of the media, and the issue of campaign finance, among other topics, are also explored.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered periodically
  

  • PSCI 206 - Recent Political Theory

    Examines a central normative category of modern democracy from a number of different perspectives: historical development of a distinctly modern public sphere, the liberal and civic republican accounts of the public sphere, and feminist and postmodern critiques.

    (THEORY)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 207 - International Relations Theory

    This course provides an introduction to and in-depth examination of the predominant theories of International Relations. Students will devote themselves to the interpretation, comparison, evaluation, application, and critique of theoretical arguments about the nature and conduct of international relations, as advanced and refined in both historical and contemporary contexts. In the process, we will also consider the evolving ideas and prevailing ontologies undergirding the study of IR as well as some of the leading critiques of the field.

    (THEORY AND IR)
     

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: VP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 209 - Minority Political Behavior

    This is a course for students interested in how minority group identity influences political behavior. While this course could be taught through the black/white binary, we will explore minority group identity broadly, covering race, ethnicity, immigrant status, religion, gender, and sexual orientation. This course is meant to examine the history and contemporary role of minority groups in the U.S. political system. We will focus on political relationships between several minority groups and their relationship to political participation, party affiliation, voting coalitions, and public opinion, in addition to other groups. Throughout American history, the United States passed laws to restrict the rights of racial and ethnic minorities to purposely keep them outside the political system. In recent years, there has been a growing trend by political parties and politicians to court minority voters and promote diversity. During this semester, we will take up this debate and explore the current state of racial and ethnic politics in the U.S.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PSCI 214 - Mass Murder and Genocide Under Communism

    Is communism inherently genocidal? Do communism and mass murder necessarily go hand in hand? This course explores the origins, motivations and consequences of the brutal and deadly policies adopted in three very different communist regimes (the Soviet Union, China and Cambodia). We will also consider potential ways to avert mass killing and genocide.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 216 - Comparative Environmental Politics

    Over the course of the past several decades environmental degradation and sustainability have assumed major significance as public-policy issues, both within nations and internationally. However, given the transnational nature of many environmental problems, addressing such problems has proven to be particularly complex and difficult. This course examines the complex nature of environmental policy from both an international and comparative perspective. We will examine the specific challenges that the international nature of environmental problems poses for policy makers. We will also compare different national experiences and strategies for addressing environmental issues with an eye toward identifying the factors, which impede or facilitate success in promoting effective environmental policy.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 217 - Latino Politics in the U.S.

    Over 50 million Latinos reside in the United States today, making them the largest minority group in the country. The current population size, projected growth trajectory, and population density of Latinos in many political battleground states have made this group a favored topic among politicians, interest groups and mass media. Moreover, recent elections and public policy debates demonstrate the capacity of this community as a political force. Yet, what do we really know about the politics and opinions associated with the diverse and fast-growing Latino population? How are Latinos incorporated into American political life?  What difference does it make to be of Latino descent in the U.S.?  How and why are Latinos distinctive in their political attitudes and behaviors?  This course presents an in-depth examination of this important population

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: ANNUALLY
  

  • PSCI 218 - Punishment and Crime

    This class examines theories that seek to justify criminal punishment and then analyzes those theories in a series of case studies.  We will explore retributive theory (punishment because it is “deserved”), utilitarian theory (punishment because of the consequences that it will produce), and expressive theory (punishment that expresses social values). Thereafter we will take up a number of specific case studies: homicide, conspiracy, attempt, the law of self-defense, hate crimes, and the death penalty.  Our goal throughout the course will be to consider the ways in which criminal law enforcement allows us to better understand our society and its values.

    Prerequisites: first year with permission only.
     

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PSCI 229 - Arab-Israeli Conflict

    This course (formerly PSCI 176) will introduce students to the domestic and regional dynamics of the Arab-Israeli conflict. We will explore the origins of the conflict, including the narratives embraced by all of the parties involved, as well as its consequences for the state and non-state actors who are parties to the conflict. We will also conduct model peace negotiations and discuss the possibilities for resolution of the conflict in the future.
  

  • PSCI 232 - Chinese Politics

    Is China rising, crumbling, or shifting? This course introduces students to the world of Chinese politics.  After a brief review of the Mao era, we will turn to the economic reform period (1980 - present) and its effects on contemporary issues such as the environment, political reform, democratization, social protest, and legal institutions. Each week we will discuss a different topic in China’s development and think critically about its implications for the regime and the Chinese people. Throughout the course we will build an understanding of Chinese history, leadership goals, and socio-political challenges. By the end of the course, students will be able to identify and compare key political issues in the country and critically evaluate China’s prospects for future political and economic reform. No prior knowledge of China or Chinese politics is required before taking this course.

    (CP)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Once a year
  

  • PSCI 235 - Money and U.S. Politics

    In this course we will consider the role that money plays in American elections and evaluate current and past proposals for campaign finance reform. We will discuss patterns in individual and group contributions to candidates, groups, and parties, with attention the relationships between givers and receiversthat is, what donors expect to get in return for their contributions, and how politicians court individual donors. We will also consider the effect of independent political spending and issue advocacy. We will make use of publicly available information on campaign finance at the national and local level, and we will develop a collaborative project to address the perceptions of local politicians on the role money plays in their campaigns.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 238 - U.S. Foreign Policy

    This course identifies and analyzes the historical, cultural, institutional, economic and political influences and constraints shaping both the US foreign policy process and the policy outcomes of that process. Particular attention will be paid to the evolution of America’s grand strategy and major foreign policy initiatives during and after the Cold War, with the objective of providing students with a basis for understanding and critically evaluating the major foreign policy issues and challenges facing the United States in the contemporary international system.

    (IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 240 - Human Rights and International Politics

    In recent years, questions of human rights and humanitarian concerns have been central to debates on such varied issues as U.S. relations with China, NATO’s role in the former Yugoslavia, and the United Nation’s place in the international system. The more general question of whether foreign policy should be based strictly on national interests or also include moral considerations has been long-standing, but it is particularly relevant in a post-Cold War world where national interests and priorities are less clear. Appeals to students interested in learning more about current policy disputes and in further exploring the impact of ideas in international politics.

    (IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY
  

  • PSCI 252 - Political Parties and Interest Groups

    This course examines the development, maintenance, and goals of interest groups and political parties in the United States.  Topics include the history of groups and parties in American politics, group and party classification methods, characteristics of group or party members and activists, regulations governing group and party activities, and selected contemporary issues of relevance.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: periodically
  

  • PSCI 253 - U.S. Judicial Politics

    Explores the relationships between the courts and other sectors of the American political system. Studies how judges are selected, how courts handle civil and criminal cases, judicial policy making, and how interest groups use the courts.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 255 - The Politics of U.S. Congress

    Examines contemporary politics of the U.S. Congress from individual and institutional perspectives. Includes Congressional elections, differing views of representation, House-Senate differences, Congressional policy making, relationships between Congress and the courts, the presidency, the bureaucracy and interest groups, and the future of the institution. PSCI 050  is highly recommended.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 256 - Russian Politics: From Dictatorship to Democracy and Back Again

    In this introduction to the study of Russian politics, we will explore how a single political party has come to dominate the national stage, while opposition politicians are jailed, human rights are violated, and journalists fall victim to assassins’ bullets. In many ways, Russia appears to be turning back into a dictatorship only 15 years after throwing off seven decades of repressive communist party rule. Why and how has this happened? Through lectures, discussions, and films, we will examine contemporary Russia’s politics, economics, and culture. The course will touch on Russia’s history from 1917 to 1991, but our main focus will be on the contemporary period.

    Program of Liberal Studies (PLS) Designation: GP

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 260 - Democratic Theory

    This course fulfills the political-theory requirement for the political science department. It traces the development of democratic theory from its origins in ancient Athens to the present day. We examine how diverse conceptualizations of democracy address key issues in democratic theory and practice, including the constitution of liberty, equality and political authority; the definition and actualization of citizenship; the proper relationship between the individual and the state; the proper balance between majority and minority rights; and the best means for citizens to participate in democratic government. We consider each of these key issues through our reading of influential works in the development of democratic theory and our active discussion of these works. This reading and discussion will enable us to broaden both our understanding of the democracy in which we live and our role as citizens within it. Formerly PSCI 156. Not open to students with credit for PSCI 156.

    (THEORY)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every year
  

  • PSCI 266 - International Law

    This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts, principles, institutions, and debates that characterize international law in a globalized world. Focusing on a number of key issue-areas this course investigates the origins and development of international law; particularly, it seeks to examine how international law influences the subjectivities, competences and responsibilities of the participant member states, and their consequent impact on state sovereignty, use of force, humanitarian intervention, international criminal tribunals, and other transnational legal mechanisms. The overall purpose of this course is to introduce and lay the foundation for an informed analysis on the limits and possibilities of international law in world affairs.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year.
  

  • PSCI 268 - Peace and War

    Through an examination and analysis of the various theories in the field of international relations as related to the origins, duration, and conclusion of wars. Looking at both historical and contemporary cases, we will assess the factors that contribute to the outbreak of war (i.e., nationalism, territory, economics and security dilemmas) as well as the emergence of peace (i.e., international institutions, alliances and the balance of power). The course concludes with an exploration of the challenges for preventing future wars and enhancing the possibility of peace.

    (IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: ANNUALLY
  

  • PSCI 272 - U.S. Constitutional Law: Civil Liberties and Rights

    Focuses on the historic and contemporary role of the U.S. Supreme Court in interpreting the U.S. Constitution. Includes cases dealing with freedom of religion and speech, privacy, discrimination and equal protection. Students may take PSCI 272 and PSCI 273  in any order.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 273 - U.S. Constitutional Law: Governmental Powers

    Focuses on the historic and contemporary role of the U.S. Supreme Court in interpreting the U.S. Constitution. Includes cases dealing with powers of Congress and the President, federalism and economic rights. Students may take PSCI 272  and 273 in any order.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 280 - Politics of Food and Drink

    How are policies surrounding food production, nutrition, and alcohol consumption developed in the United States? Who influences these decisions and in what ways?  For instance, what is the connection between poverty and obesity, and how should the government respond to these challenges?  How can we understand the recent rise in interest for local, organic, and fair trade food, and should policies actively promote these choices?  How does freedom of speech influence debates over food advertising and labeling? The course will explore these and other ethical and political questions related to food and drink in the U.S. We will examine the development of state and national policies as well as key rulings by state and federal courts. While the focus is primarily on domestic politics, throughout the semester we will also discuss comparative examples from across the globe, examining the wide range of factors that influence agriculture, food and drink, and nutrition policies, programs, and choices.  We will also consider the role of international organizations and international trade agreements.

    (US)

    PSCI CAPSTONE (NOT AN LAS CAPSTONE)

    Prerequisites: PSCI 50 or instructor permission; JRS & SRS ONLY

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Bi-annually
  

  • PSCI 281 - Civil Wars in Comparative Perspective

    This seminar will offer students the chance to explore the causes and consequences of civil war through a comparative approach by looking at evidence from civil wars around the world. We will also explore other issues related to the conduct of civil war, including violence against civilians, the use of child soldiers, and the problem of refugees. Finally, we will evaluate some of the competing arguments for and against negotiated settlement, partition, or other means of ending civil wars and moving toward post-conflict reconstruction.

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 289 - Advanced Topics in International Relations - Capstone Seminar

    Focus changes with each offering, depending on faculty interest. Recent topics: U.S. Foreign Policy; International Humanitarian Law; Terrorism; Intervention; and Ethnic and Nationalist Conflicts. Open to juniors and seniors. Can be taken twice.

    (IR)

    PSCI CAPSTONE (NOT AN LAS CAPSTONE)

    Prerequisites: PSCI 069 OR INSTRUCTOR PERMISSION; JRS & SRS ONLY

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EACH SEMESTER
  

  • PSCI 290 - U.S. - Latin American Relations - Capstone Seminar

    This course examines the historical and contemporary relations between the United States and Latin-American countries. After a brief historical overview of U.S. foreign policy toward Latin America, we explore various themes central to U.S.-Latin American relations. Topics include the impact of U.S. hegemonic rule; revolutionary challenges to U.S. hegemony; economic relations, including Dollar Diplomacy and NAFTA; defending national security, democracy and human rights; the “war on drugs”; and the Latin Americanization of the United States. While we seek a deeper understanding of common patterns in U.S.-Latin American relations, the course also emphasizes the uniqueness of national experiences.

    (CP AND IR)

    PSCI CAPSTONE (NOT AN LAS CAPSTONE)

    Prerequisites: PSCI 069 OR 070 OR INSTRUCTOR PERMISSION; JRS & SRS ONLY

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Offered every other year
  

  • PSCI 291 - Lawyers and U.S. Politics - Capstone Seminar

    Examines the role played by lawyers in American politics. Topics include lawyers in private practice, lawyers in legislatures, lawyers as judges, lawyers as lobbyists, government-agency lawyers and academic lawyers.

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 292 - U.S. Urban Policy - Capstone Seminar and Internship

    This course is designed as a capstone primarily for advanced-level Political Science majors in the American Politics and Public Policy subfield and students pursuing the Urban Development and Social Change concentration. The readings and seminar sessions will explore the major factors and actors that influence city government policy-making, implementation, and outcomes. A broad range of topics will be considered, with special focus on economic development and redevelopment, neighborhood revitalization, and housing policies. In order to gain an understanding of the perspectives and actions of urban policy-makers and shapers students will also do an internship either with a Worcester city government elected official; the head of a city government agency or program; or the director of a neighborhood community development or housing non-profit organization. “Hands-on” learning through the internship will be shared periodically in seminar sessions. Limited to 12 students juniors and seniors. (Formerly GOVT 221).

    (US)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
  

  • PSCI 293 - Special Topics in Political Theory

    This course addresses current or timely topics in political theory, that are in a pilot phase or that are known to be one time offerings. Special Topics can vary from semester to semester.
    Fall 2013 Topic: Politics and Literature
    This course will follow the political themes of power, religion, and community through readings of novels, plays, and poetry along with relevant secondary theoretical literature. Each literary work will be paired with either an explanatory theoretical text that deals directly with the literature itself or a contemporaneous writing engaging with the same themes as the fictional work.


     

    Anticipated Terms Offered: varied
  

  • PSCI 294 - Peer Learning Assistant

    Peer Learning Assistants (PLAs) are undergraduate students who are selected by a faculty member to facilitate teaching and learning activities. These activities may include: providing feedback on drafts of writing assignments, leading small group discussions, working with individual students who are having difficulty, and facilitating group project work (in or out of class & online).
    Registration is by instructor permission only
     

    Anticipated Terms Offered: Fall & Spring
  

  • PSCI 295 - Globalization and Democracy - Capstone Seminar

    How does globalization affect democracy? As economics, politics, military action and social-change movements have become increasingly transnational, have state leaders become less accountable to their populations, and are they under little pressure to build liberal democratic institutions? Or has the increasingly global system been good for democratic state-building? Have transnational forces successfully pressured states to observe human rights and fight against corruption? Do they encourage state leaders to build accountable economic and legal institutions? We will examine a variety of states and their struggles to consolidate liberal democracies, including: Sierra Leone, Cambodia and Russia.

    (CP AND IR)

    Anticipated Terms Offered: EVERY OTHER YEAR
 

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