PSCI 296 - Advanced Topics in American Politics: Capstone Seminar

SPRING 2021 TOPIC: FIXING AMERICAN DEMOCRACY 
There is widespread, bipartisan agreement that American democracy has become increasingly unable to respond to the needs of voters.  In this course we will consider the pros and cons of a range of proposals to improve government.  Topics include electoral reforms (such as changes to congressional districting, primary elections, the Electoral College, campaign finance, and voting rules), reforms to the powers of the presidency and congress, and efforts to address the power of social media corporations.  We will consider arguments from liberals and conservatives about the effects of these proposed changes.  Students will select one proposed reform and write a detailed capstone paper evaluating the feasibility and consequences of that reform. 

May be repeatable for credit.

 

Prerequisites: Prerequisite:  PSCI 050  or permission of the instructor. 

Anticipated Terms Offered: PERIODICALLY