| |
Philosophy |
| |
-
PHIL 430 Literary Theory and Critical Theory
3 Credit(s)
This course presents contemporary literary theory in connection with related developments in contemporary philosophy of language. Philosophy of language asks: What is it for a set of signs or symbols to have meaning? How is meaning, in general, possible, and how is it that a particular set of signs can have a particular meaning? What is a language? What is the relation between the sign and the signifier, the word and the object? What is the relation between writing, speech, and being? Literary theory and critical theory ask: What is a literary text? What is a genre and why do we distinguish them? What is an author? What is interpretation? Is paraphrase (saying the same thing two different ways) really possible? What is the role of the critic? How do the norms governing interpretation help to shape the “reality” that is interpreted? Readings range from ordinary language philosophy (e.g., Wittgenstein, Austin, Searle) to structuralism to new criticism to reader-response theory, deconstruction, and post-structuralism.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHIL 437 Metaethics
3 Credit(s)
This course is an advanced introduction to metaethics, the branch of ethics that explores the nature of moral judgments, properties and attitudes. This course covers all the major metaethical positions: Error Theory, Non-Cognitivism, Motivational Internalism/Externalism, Naturalist Moral Realism, Response Dependent Moral Realism and the Humean Theory of Motivation.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: PHIL 333 or permission of instructor
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHIL 440 Philosophy of Language
3 Credit(s)
This course examines 20th century analytic approaches to understanding the role of language in understanding mind, self, and world. Questions about the interplay between semantics and pragmatics will be addressed throughout the course, while focusing on questions about meaning, reference, truth, and the varieties of actions we accomplish through what we say. Topics include Russell’s theory of descriptions and its critics, speech acts, and inferentialism.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHIL 450 Rights
3 Credit(s)
This course examines a range of contemporary theories, including those of Rawls, Nozick, Feinberg, and Dworkin. It outlines the classical tradition, and introduces the work of legal positivists like Austin and Hart. Emphasis is placed on alternatives to rights based theories and on criticisms of rights systems, such as that put forward by contemporary communitarians, virtue theorists, and feminist theorists.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHIL 452 Aristotle
3 Credit(s)
Aristotle’s philosophy as a response to Plato’s views about meaning, being, knowledge, ideas, number and the good.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHIL 455 Hegel and German Idealism
3 Credit(s)
This course is an introduction to the philosophy of Hegel and to the Hegelian tradition, through a reading of Hegel’s major work, The Phenomenology of Spirit. Other readings for the course include excerpts of The Science of Logic and The Philosophy of Right, as well as important critical sources.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHIL 462 The Critical Philosophy of Immanuel Kant
3 Credit(s)
The Critique of Pure Reason, with special attention to Kant’s epistemology and critique of metaphysics.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHIL 465 Kant’s Moral Philosophy and Its Critics
3 Credit(s)
A study of some of the major ethical writings of Immanuel Kant, possibly the greatest moral philosopher in the Western tradition-Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals, selections from Critique of Practical Reason, Religion Within the Limits of Reason Alone. Also Arthur Schopenhauer’s critique of Kant’s ethics, On the Basis of Morality. Brief attention to Hegel’s critique of Kant.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHIL 478 Independent Study I
1 - 3 Credit(s)
Independent study on approved topics in philosophy.
Enrollment Requirements:
Instructor consent
1 - 3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHIL 479 Independent Study II
1 - 3 Credit(s)
Study of a particular area of this subject under the supervision of a faculty member. Students wishing to register must do so through the department.
1 - 3 Credit(s) |
Philosophy and Law |
| |
-
PHILLAW 210 Legislative Labyrinth
3 Credit(s)
Legislatve Labyrinth
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHILLAW 260 Latina/nos and the Law
3 Credit(s)
This course is an introduction for students to understand how legal institutions and systems in the United States have impacted the Latina/nos community. This is essentially a U.S. history course teaching to and about subject matters often neglected in K-12 education. Beginning with an examination of Columbus and his impact to the Americas the course examines the initial creation of the system of oppression against the Latina/nos community. Through a variety of methods of learning including mock trial, small group work, individual critical reading of articles/book chapters/case law/statutes, and critical class viewing and debriefing of video presentation - students will get a better understanding of the U.S. and the core principles that built this country and the backs on whom this country was built upon. After a review of the past, the course will offer an examination of contemporary issues involving how Latina/nos have or have not been able to fully participate in life in the U.S. due to discriminatory laws and policies. It will then explore issues pertaining to voting rights, immigration reform, educational rights, privacy/reproductive rights. English Only laws, ethnic studies ban, right to participate in the jury process, and a host of other legal issues as revealed through case studies.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHILLAW 300 Basic Legal Rsng&Rsr
3 Credit(s)
Basic Legal Rsng&Rsr
3 Credit(s) |
Physics |
| |
-
PHYSIC 107 College Physics I
3 Credit(s)
Non-calculus introductory physics for life-science students and others with a program requirement for a year of physics at this level. Topics include mechanics, fluids, wave motion, kinetic theory of gases, temperature and heat. Students who need or want laboratory work in physics should enroll concurrently in PHYSIC 181. Note: Students may not receive credit for both PHYSIC 107-108 and 113-114.
Distribution Area: Natural Sciences
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: MATH 130 or higher or equivalent placement or permission of instructor
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 108 College Physics II
3 Credit(s)
A continuation of PHYSIC 107. Topics include thermodynamics, electricity, and magnetism; optics; and a preview of modern physics. Students who need or want laboratory work in physics should enroll concurrently in PHYSIC 182. Note: Students may not receive credit for both PHYSIC 107-108 and 113-114.
Distribution Area: Natural Sciences
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: PHYSIC 107 or permission of instructor
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 113 Fundamentals of Physics I
4 Credit(s)
The first semester of calculus-level introductory physics. Topics include mechanics, fluids, waves, kinetic theory, and heat. Students who need or want laboratory work in physics should enroll concurrently in PHYSIC 181. Note: Students may not receive credit for both PHYSIC 107-108 and 113-114.
Distribution Area: Natural Sciences
Enrollment Requirements:
Corequisite: MATH 140 and for physics majors PHYSIC 181
4 Credit(s) |
| |
4 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 121 Introduction to Astronomy
3 Credit(s)
Descriptive introduction to astronomy and astrophysics. Topics include introductory material on light, telescopes, and spectroscopy; properties of stars and stellar evolution, including the formation of stars, stellar energy cycles, red giants, white dwarfs, supernovae, neutron stars, and black holes; galactic structure; the expansion of the universe; cosmology; the past and future of the universe.
Distribution Area: Natural Sciences
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 126 Solar System Astronomy
3 Credit(s)
Descriptive introduction to the study of the solar system and its structure. Topics include the historical development of early astronomy; the properties of the sun; the planets and their satellites; comets, asteroids, and meteorites; the results of spacecraft exploration.
Distribution Area: Natural Sciences
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: MATH 114QR or higher or equivalent placement score or permission of instuctor
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 134 Energy for the Future
3 Credit(s)
The current means of providing energy for our society are not sustainable. The need for secure, alternative and clean sources of power is increasingly apparent. This course, intended for a general audience, provides an overview of the energy problem. It covers the ways we currently obtain and use power and considers the scientific and technological issues involved in emerging technologies.
Distribution Area: Natural Sciences
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 181 Physics Laboratory I
2 Credit(s)
Exploration of basic physical phenomena through laboratory work. Experiments in kinematics, mechanics and hydrostatics. This course is designed to accompany either level of introductory physics.
Enrollment Requirements:
Corequisite: PHYSIC 107 or 113
2 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 182 Physics Laboratory II
2 Credit(s)
Exploration of basic physical phenomena through laboratory work. Experiments in thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism and optics. This course is designed to accompany either level of introductory physics.
Enrollment Requirements:
Corequisite: PHYSIC 108 or 114
2 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 211 Introduction to Contemporary Physics
3 Credit(s)
The third semester of calculus-level introductory physics. Topics include special relativity; the historical development of quantum theory; elements of quantum mechanics; with applications to atomic, molecular, solid state, nuclear and particle physics. Students who need or want laboratory work in modern physics should enroll concurrently in PHYSIC 281.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: PHYSIC 114 or permission of instructor
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 214 Thermodynamics
3 Credit(s)
An introduction to the principles of thermodynamics. Concepts include temperature, internal energy, heat, free energy, entropy, work, and the laws which relate them to each other. Application is made to systems including ideal gases, heat engines and refrigerators.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisites: MATH 141 and PHYSIC 113 or permission of instructor
3 Credit(s) |
| |
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 312 Mechanics
3 Credit(s)
Principles of Newtonian mechanics, conservation laws, gravitational potential theory, and conservative fields, central forces, oscillatory systems, rigid body rotation, and relativistic mechanics.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: PHYSIC 211 or permission of instructor
Corequisite: MATH 310
3 Credit(s) |
| |
3 Credit(s) |
| |
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 331 Optics
3 Credit(s)
An introductory treatment of the physics of light. Topics include geometrical optics, interference and diffraction of light, electromagnetic wave theory, polarization, propagation of light in dispersive media and crystals, optical instruments, holography, lasers.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 350 Statistical Physics
3 Credit(s)
Topics in heat, thermodynamics, kinetic theory, and elementary statistical mechanics.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: PHYSIC 312 or permission of instructor
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 362 Computational Science
4 Credit(s)
This course provides an introduction to some of the computational techniques employed, as well as illustrative applications in the natural sciences, and is intended to be accessible to majors from all science disciplines. The topics covered will begin with the numerical computation of derivatives and integrals. After discussing methods for finding roots of equations, solutions to systems of linear equations will be studies using matrix methods. These techniques are then extended to the solution of systems of ordinary differential equations with boundary or initial conditions. Scientific applications will include discrete and continuous time population and ecological models; reaction kinetics; radioactive decay; and solutions to one-dimensional Poisson and Schroedinger equations. Students will use MATLAB software as a platform to explore these computational techniques.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: PHYSIC 113 and MATH 140 or permission of instructor
4 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 382 Intermediate Laboratory
3 Credit(s)
Experiments in geometrical and physical optics, electronics, atomic physics, and nuclear physics. Individual program of experiments for each student according to his or her interests and previous experience.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: PHYSIC 281 or permission of instructor
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 421 Atomic Physics and Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
3 Credit(s)
The fundamental and elementary applications of quantum mechanics with emphasis on physical content rather than formalism. Elementary wave mechanics developed and applied to simple atomic structure. Topics include spectroscopic and other phenomena which form the experimental basis of modern atomic physics, the role of the Pauli principle and spin in determining periodic atomic properties, and radiation phenomena.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: PHYSIC 321 or permission of instructor
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 422 Nuclear and Particle Physics
3 Credit(s)
A continuation of PHYSIC 421. The basic properties of nuclei, particle scattering, radioactivity, nuclear stability, dynamics of nuclear reactions, potential well and barrier problems in quantum mechanics, and particles.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 479 Readings in Physics I
1 - 4 Credit(s)
Supervised individual study of special topics in physics that are not available in regular courses.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisites: A minimum of 60 credits and approval of plan of study by supervising instructor and department chair
1 - 4 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 480 Readings in Physics II
1 - 3 Credit(s)
Supervised individual study of special topics in physics that are not available in regular courses.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisites: A minimum of 60 credits and approval of plan of study by supervising instructor and department chair
1 - 3 Credit(s) |
| |
4 Credit(s) |
| |
4 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 487 Research in Physics I
1 - 3 Credit(s)
Supervised research.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisites: A minimum of 60 credits and approval of plan of study by supervising instructor and department chair
1 - 3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
PHYSIC 488 Research Physics II
1 - 3 Credit(s)
Supervised research.
1 - 3 Credit(s) |
Political Science |
| |
-
POLSCI 101 Introduction to Politics
3 Credit(s)
This course introduces and explores the conceptual vocabulary of politics. Though concerned with problems of political theory, it is designed not for theorists but for anyone who thinks, talks, or worries about the public world. A series of brief case studies is used to show how real-world outcomes are affected by our political ideas and assumptions.
Distribution Area: Social & Behavioral Sciences
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 102 Government and Politics of the United States
3 Credit(s)
An introduction to the structures, processes, and results of the American governmental system. The course focuses on the national government and national political behavior, although state, regional, and local structures and issues are also introduced. Topics include institutions of government, political principles and ideologies, public opinion, political socialization, political parties, mass media, elections, interest groups, civil rights and civil liberties, public policies and policy making.
Distribution Area: Social & Behavioral Sciences
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 103 Introduction to Political Theory
3 Credit(s)
This course consists of close readings of three texts considered foundational to the history of Western political thought: Plato’s Republic, Machiavelli’s The Prince, and Marx and Engels’ Communist Manifesto. It will examine the characteristic questions and problems raised by these texts concerning the nature of politics and justice, and examine what roles moral and epistemological knowledge might play with regard to both. Also considered will be questions of genre, history, and rhetoric, with special attention given to questions regarding authorial intent, readership, and audience.
Distribution Area: Humanities
3 Credit(s) |
| |
4 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 201 Comparative Politics of Industrialized Societies (C)
3 Credit(s)
Introductory survey of political systems in the industrialized world, including the United States, Europe, and Japan.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 202 Comparative Politics of Third World Countries
3 Credit(s)
Introductory survey of political systems in non-industrialized nations, drawing on examples from Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Course content focuses on the nature of the development process and the evolution of political institutions and practices.
Diversity Area: International
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 203 Public Policy (A)
3 Credit(s)
The process of policy making and the manner and effects of policy implementation in states and localities.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 220 International Relations (B)
3 Credit(s)
This course focuses on basic patterns and concepts which explain interactions among nations. Special attention is given to the role of ideologies, international organizations, conflict resolution, the impact of multinational corporations, underdevelopment, the international dimension of human rights, ethnic, “racial,” religious, and gender differences, and the dynamics of globalization.
Diversity Area: International
3 Credit(s) |
| |
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 251 Ancient and Medieval Political Thought (D)
3 Credit(s)
The origins and the early development of the main political ideas of the West. (Course offered in the fall only.)
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 252 Modern Political Thought (D)
3 Credit(s)
The history of Western political ideas from the time of Machiavelli to that of Marx and Nietzsche.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 265L World War II Internment of Japanese Americans (A)
3 Credit(s)
The US Government in 1942 commenced the internment of 120,000 Americans of Japanese ancestry. This course considers political, economic, legal, sociological and historical matters in the examination of this chapter in American life. The course encompasses experiences beyond the internment, including early Japanese immigration, the battle for redress and reparations, and the current status of Japanese and Asian Americans. ASAMST 265L and POLSCI 265L are the same course.
Diversity Area: United States
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 307 Political Change and Group Identity (C)
3 Credit(s)
The course is concerned with the impact of group identity-racial, religious, ethnic, gender, sexual, class, national-on political systems.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 311 Political Parties (A)
3 Credit(s)
The American political process, with emphasis on political parties, pressure groups, and public opinion.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 312 Political Economy I
3 Credit(s)
This course is designed to introduce the undergraduate student to competing paradigms in economic thought and public policy. The course begins with a brief overview of the historical, philosophical, and psychological roots of political economy. It continues with an inquiry into conservative, liberal, and radical political economic perspectives. It concludes by applying these three perspectives to policy questions concerning economic development and income distribution.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 318 The Legislative Process (A)
3 Credit(s)
The function of national and state legislatures, and the role played by political parties and interest groups in legislatures.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 322 Politics of Poverty and U.S. Social Welfare Policy
3 Credit(s)
This course offers a survey of social welfare policy and the politics of poverty in the United States. It investigates the scope and frequency of poverty in the U.S., who is most likely to be poor, what has typified American responses to poverty, and the various explanations for why these conditions exist. Addressing these issues means that the potential role of group cleavages like race ethnicity, gender, and social class for determining public opinion and policy toward the poor is a central theme. The difficulties and relative efficacy of various forms of political action by the poor, on behalf of the poor, and against the poor are also considered. The course relies on empirical evidence, from authors across the ideological spectrum, to evaluate claims about the poor, poverty politics, policymakers, power, and social welfare policy.
Diversity Area: United States
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: POLSCI 102 or 203 or SOCIOL 101 or one diversity course or a minimum of 60 credits or permission of instructor
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 324 The American Presidency (A)
3 Credit(s)
The powers, the limitations, and the organization of the Presidency in the American system of government.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 325 Public Administration (A)
3 Credit(s)
A study of the bureaucratic process, emphasizing organizational behavior, changes in administrative institutions and theories, and the political role of bureaucracy.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 329 American Constitutional Law and Theory (A)
3 Credit(s)
The development of the United States Constitution, chiefly through decisions of the Supreme Court. Emphasis on the origin and nature of judicial power, the way it inhibits and facilitates operation of the political process, and the search for standards by which to judge the judges.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 330 Presidential Elections (A)
3 Credit(s)
The course examines systematically the process by which the President of the United States is chosen. Presidential recruitment, campaign financing, delegate selection, electoral procedures, media use and involvement, conventions, strategies and tactics, and other aspects of the presidential election process are covered. Most of these discussions take place within the context of recent elections.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 332 Civil Liberties in the United States (A)
3 Credit(s)
An analysis of the constitutional rules governing civil liberties in the American system, primarily through decisions of the Supreme Court. Emphasis on five areas: freedom of the press and speech, freedom of religion, criminal procedure, reproductive rights, and school desegregation.
Diversity Area: United States
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 333 Terrorism
3 Credit(s)
This course examines fundamental questions about the political phenomenon known as terrorism: What is terrorism? Who engages in it? What do they hope to achieve? Who supports or opposes terrorism? What are the effects of terrorism and counter-terrorism on society? The class considers these questions from a variety of perspectives, drawing from political science, psychology, sociology, and primary sources.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: POLSCI 220
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 335 Law and Public Policy (A)
3 Credit(s)
The main objective of this course is to expose students to (1) different theoretical perspectives on law and public policy (concentrating on law and the courts), (2) some important substantive areas of law and public policy, and (3) broader questions regarding the study and practice of public policy in the United States. Although the focus is on “judicial” policymaking, the broader phenomenon of institutional development and interaction with societal forces is of special concern in this course. Class discussion and assignments are geared toward developing students’ analytical skills so that they are able to examine policy issues from multiple theoretical angles and, thereby, to gain a critical perspective.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 338 Massachusetts Politics (A)
3 Credit(s)
A study of state and local government and politics in Massachusetts, emphasizing its unique features as well as its similarities to other state systems.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 340 Boston: Cooperation and Conflict in the Urban Environment (A)
3 Credit(s)
The course helps students become familiar with the historical backgrounds of Boston’s social systems, which leads to investigation and discussion of the city’s contemporary political and social problems. The materials for this course consist of scholarly writings, journalists’ reports, government documents, judicial opinions, biographies, films, and slide lectures, all focused on Boston and the metropolitan region.
Diversity Area: United States
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 344 Problems of Urban Politics (A)
3 Credit(s)
Some of the issues raised by urbanization-are cities necessary? and is the relatively democratic structure of the American cities responsible for some of their problems? and has there been a revolution of rising expectations in urban life?-considered in historical and comparative perspectives.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 345 Sports, Politics, & Policy
3 Credit(s)
This course examines the intersections between sports and politics - for good and for bad - primarily in the American case. It examines how questions of identity, solidarity, difference, opportunity, power, subjugation, social justice, the law, development, violence, race, gender, sexual orientation, sexual identity, pay, and labor practices play out in American politics, public policy, and sports culture. It is a course for those who love sports but hate politics, those who love politics and hate sports, those who love sports and politics, and all derivations in between.
Diversity Area: United States
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 350 Political Research Methods
3 Credit(s)
This course provides exposure to the major approaches to studying politics and is designed so that participants develop the skills necessary to both conduct their own research and critically evaluate the research of others. To facilitate these goals, the course is divided into four sections: (1) the politics and ethics of research; (20 conceptual issues in research ; (3) quantitative data collection and analysis; and (4) qualitative data collection and analysis.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 355L The European Union (B)
3 Credit(s)
This course focuses on the political, economic, and social trends affecting national and intra-regional developments within various countries, as well as on the institutions and processes of the European Union as an emerging supranational entity. Also covered: The European Union’s external relations, with particular attention to US-European issues. IR 355L and POLSCI 355L are the same course.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 360 The Government and Politics of Britain (C)
3 Credit(s)
Political institutions in Great Britain. Comparisons with those in other Western democracies.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 361 The Politics of Eastern Europe (C)
3 Credit(s)
This course focuses upon such issues in Eastern Europe as political leadership, political legitimacy and stability, the leading role of the Communist Party, the relationship between political culture and change, and Eastern Europe-Soviet relations. It explores the revolutions of 1989 and the post-communist political order.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 368 Immigration Politics in Comparative Perspective
3 Credit(s)
This class explores how and why migration occurs and what political consequences it has for the host countries and for the countries that immigrants leave behind. It explores how states attempt to manage immigration flows, which range from human rights abuses to direct encouragement. The class will also analyze theories explaining anti-immigrant attitudes, the reasons behind open or restrictive migration policies throughout the developed world and why these can lead to human rights abuses. In addition, the class considers the impact that host countries have on migrants’ political attitudes and on issues on assimilation both social and economic. The emphasis will be on migration flows moving to Europe and the United States, but will also include, to a lesser extent, Australia, Japan and Latin America.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 369 Politics of the Middle East
3 Credit(s)
This course traces the creation and transformation of Middle Eastern states, focusing on the development of their political systems and on their transition towards democracy. It explores the diversity of Middle Eastern states and analyzes the factors that contribute to the predominance of authoritarian regimes among them. In this respect, it examines the role of ideologies, -in which Islam and nationalism play key roles-, the nature of the party and family politics, the Arab-Israeli conflict and the ways in which economic developments impact political structures. It also focuses on the domestic, regional and international forces pushing for democracy in the region, central among which is the role of civil society and the changing pattern of foreign intervention in the region. The course pays attention to central themes such as modernization, development, democratization, state/society., state/military relations, all of which are key to any course in comparative politics and political development, two core categories in any political science program
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 371 Latin American Poltc
3 Credit(s)
An analysis of social structure and political behavior of various groups in Latin America, of a variety of political participation at grass roots and national levels, and of the influence of technologically advanced countries on the politics of Latin America.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 372 Central American Politics (C)
3 Credit(s)
The study of the political and economic antecedents of the political situation in Central America, with emphasis on Nicaragua, Guatemala and El Salvador. The foreign policy of the United States and of other Latin American states toward the region is discussed, but emphasis is given to domestic politics.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 375 Third World Development (C)
3 Credit(s)
Investigation of theories of interdependence, dependency, and neocolonialism. Special attention to North/South relations, various approaches to development and forms of assistance provided by the industrial countries, resource problems, and other political and developmental issues facing North and South.
Diversity Area: International
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 377 Special Topics in Politics
3 Credit(s)
Intensive study of topics in politics. Course content varies each semester.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 387 The Government and Politics of China (C)
3 Credit(s)
A study of the influences shaping contemporary Chinese politics, both domestic and international, including revolutionary origins, the struggle for development, ideology, political structures, and ongoing social change.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 402 World Politics and World Order
3 Credit(s)
The study of recent developments in international law and organization, regionalism, the politics of economic interdependence, and arms control, with emphasis on the United Nations systems and the European communities. Examination of strategies for dealing with international conflict.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 404 The Politics of the Arab-Israeli Conflict
3 Credit(s)
This course examines the Arab-Israeli conflict from a national and international perspective. It considers the competing historical and moral claims to the land, the creation of political “facts”, the rise of national consciousness and institutions, the influence of regional politics and the role of international forces in shaping the nature of the conflict and the means to resolve it.
Diversity Area: International
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: POLSCI 101 or 220
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 406 Politics of Food Security
3 Credit(s)
There is enough food on the planet to feed everyone, and yet currently approximately 800 million people go hungry. Why is this the case: This course explores the politics of international food security, dividing the semester into four sections to examine food through the lens of development, human rights, governance, and security concerns.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: POLSCI 220
Instructor consent
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 407 US-Latin American Relations
3 Credit(s)
To what extent has the relationship between the U.S. and Latin America shaped both regions’ political reality? This course will use IR theory to explain the foreign policy dynamics of the region. It will explore issues in the multilateral agenda prior to the end of the cold war and how American foreign policy has changed (or not) over time. It will also examine current inter-American sources of tension including drugs, immigration, and free trade.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 410 Pol Intrnatnl Econ
3 Credit(s)
This course studies the relationship between the structure of the international political system and the structure of the international economic system, examines the reciprocal links between domestic political and economic policies of governments and their international behavior, and analyzes the socio-political choices which support the development and operation of such transnational institutions as the World Bank, the IMF, multinational corporations, cartels, and trading systems.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 411 International Organizations I (B)
3 Credit(s)
The development of international organizations as a response to the needs of the international community, and as a functional approach to world peace. Emphasis on the United Nations and its specialized agencies.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 420 Imperialism (B)
3 Credit(s)
This course is designed to examine the various purposes (economic, political, social, cultural) served by policies of imperialism, in both its overt and ambiguous forms, as an aspect of international relations in the nineteenth and twentieth and twenty-first centuries–eras marked economically by an international process of industrialization and globalization. Course material consists of analyses and explanations of the imperialist phenomenon advanced by both theoreticians (liberal, Marxist, realist) and practitioners.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 421 War (B)
3 Credit(s)
An advanced course in international relations exploring the problem of war from many points of view, theoretical and practical. These include the history, nature, and causes of war, strategy in the course of war, legal and ethical questions, as well as proposals to avoid war (arms control, disarmament, social revolutions, etc.).
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 422 Nationalism (C)
3 Credit(s)
The politics of nationalism viewed through a theoretical examination of its origins and development; focus on nationalism and patriotism, political violence, national character, nation, communications and state.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 424 American Foreign Policy (B)
3 Credit(s)
Examines United States foreign policy in the post-World War II period. Focuses on both historical and institutional matters. Current issues are also given ample consideration.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 430 Russian Foreign Policy
3 Credit(s)
Topics include continuity and change in Russian and Soviet foreign policy, the role of ideology, and national interest, the origin of the Cold War, and Sino-Soviet dispute and Soviet-East European relations.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 450 Decolonial Theory
3 Credit(s)
This upper level political theory course is designed to introduce students to decolonial theories, broadly understood. We will explore foundational texts of post-colonial theory, the subaltern studies tradition, afro-pessimism, and critical indigenous studies, among other approaches. This course seeks to challenge the hegemony that western political theory continues to hold in the ways in which the political has been theorized, by privileging the voices, knowledges, and practices of those resisting from various counter-hegemonic locations. From Frantz Fanon and Edward Said to Saidiya Hartman, Mar?a Lugones, and Frank Wilderson, this course is of interest to students seeking to learn about the ways in which settler colonial capitalism has shaped and continues to shape our lives and our political imaginaries.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 451 Queer Political Theory
3 Credit(s)
Queer Theory is a field of study that critically examines sex, gender, sexuality, and sexual desire from a dissident and “gay affirmative” (Sedgwick) perspective. Its primary aims are the de-naturalization of (hetero)sexuality and (hetero)normative gender categories, identities, and expression. This course in Queer Theory is specifically focused on politics, and as such will consider two basic questions: (1) how, in what way, or to what degree is sexuality political? (2) What consequences do the answers to this question have for something called “queer politics”? We will explore possible answers to these questions by reading classic texts from the history of feminist and gay liberation, core texts from the initial emergence of Queer Theory in the 1990s, and important contemporary texts on queer and LGBT politics in the U.S.
Diversity Area: United States
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 452 Feminist Political Theory
3 Credit(s)
Understood as a political theory, feminism consists of two basic principles: freedom and equality. It is feminist because it is believed that these political principles must be realized within the context of gender - the human categories men and women. In this course, we will critically interrogate the principles of freedom and equality, and what they mean within the terms of gender. The notions of women and men will also come in for critical scrutiny. Finally, we will consider the practical applications of these ideas in areas like politics, race, class, marriage, motherhood, family, work, rape, sexual harassment, sex work, the body, desire and sexuality.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 453 Democratic Theory (D)
3 Credit(s)
This course explores ancient and modern theories of democracy in historical context. Topics include theories about leaders and their ends; the bases of representative democracy; the linkages between democracy and revolution; the relationship of democracy and economics; the issues related to democracy and difference; and the challenges for democracy in the twenty-first century.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 454 Recnt&Cntmp Pol Tght
3 Credit(s)
A study of twentieth century political and social thought with incidental attention to certain influential thinkers of the nineteenth century.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 455 Problems in Political Thought
3 Credit(s)
This course explores Marx’ political thought and contemporary marxist political theory. It will address class intersectionally, that is, by exploring the ways in which capitalism both produces racial and gender differences, as it also abstracts from concrete forms of labor in order to create value. The course will focus on an interrogation of Marx’ theory of value and an analysis of the problem of political subjectivity. We will investigate problems related to class consciousness, and concepts like those of the multitude, racial capitalism, and the capitalist unconscious.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 456 Political Thought of Lincoln
3 Credit(s)
This course will explore the intellectual journey of Abraham Lincoln and place him in the ranks of serious philosophers on the nature of man, God, and government. We will examine Lincoln’s assertion that his entire political philosophy could be traced to the Declaration of Independence and its doctrine of natural law, consider his desire to preserve the Union in light of his conception of the immorality of slavery, and explore his constitutional understanding. Our reading will include a close examination of Lincoln’s speeches and writings, as well as secondary sources.
Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: A minimum of 60 credits
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 458 From Biopolitics to Necropolitcs
3 Credit(s)
This course investigates the theoretical tradition that moves political theory from a juridical emphasis on the legal problem of sovereignty, to a broader interrogation of various technologies of power invested in the regulation of life and death. In this course we explore both, the foundational texts of Hannah Arendt and Michel Foucault, as well as the reception, further development, and complication of their theories in the works of other contemporary political theorists, such as Giorgio Agamben, Roberto Esposito, and Achille Mbembe.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 468 American Political Thought (D)
3 Credit(s)
An analytical and historical study of the development of American political thought and institutions.
3 Credit(s) |
| |
-
POLSCI 478 Independent Study
1 - 3 Credit(s)
A course of reading and investigation designed to supplement regular departmental offerings. Topics are worked out by instructor and student. Regular papers are required.
Enrollment Requirements:
Instructor consent
1 - 3 Credit(s) |
| |
Page: 1 <- Back 10 … 15
| 16
| 17
| 18
| 19
| 20
| 21
| 22
| 23
| 24
| 25
|
Print this Page