TEMPLE UNIVERSITY

Undergraduate Bulletin Updated for 1997-1998

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Course Descriptions


01804/Political Science

LOWER LEVEL

R050. The Individual, Race, and American Political Life (3 s.h.) (IN) FS

This course focuses on the relationships between individuals and their government in the United States, investigating how government has handled the issue of insuring individual equality under democracy. It will explore the ways in which the exclusion and incorporation of various groups in American society has been affected by race and class.

C051. The American Political System (3 s.h.) (AC/D3) FS

An introduction to American politics; focuses on the values, institutions, and processes of politics and government in the United States. Introduces the concepts and techniques of political science.

C052. Foreign Governments and Politics (3 s.h.) (IS) FS

For both non-majors and majors. The values, institutions, and processes of politics and government in selected developing and developed countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Simulations and films.

C053. International Politics (3 s.h.) (IS/D3) FS

An introduction. The nature of the international system, the determinants and instruments of foreign policy, and the problems of international conflict and cooperation. Class discussion and possibly simulations of current international problems.

H091. Honors The American Political System (3 s.h.) (AC/D3) FS

Students are introduced to the American political process through a focus on the allocation of values in American political life.

H092. Honors Foreign Governments and Politics (3 s.h.) FS

This course introduces students to some of the basic concepts used to analyze and compare political systems. These concepts will be examined in pluralist democracies (Great Britain, France, the Federal Republic of Germany, and Japan), communist countries (the People's Repub-lic of China), and developing nations (Nigeria).

H093. Honors International Politics (3 s.h.) (IS/D3) FS

This course introduces students to the nature and evolution of the contemporary international system, the roles of state and non-state actors, foreign policy determinants, and analysis of forces producing both cooperation and conflict in world politics.

H094. Honors in Political PhilosophyÑModern Political Ideologies (3 s.h.) S

Examines arguments for and against the modern political ideologies of democracy, capitalism, and socialism. Explores the interrelationship between the distribution of political power and social and economic power. Examines the historical record of various capitalist and socialist regimes.

UPPER LEVEL

W101. Introduction to Political Philosophy (3 s.h.) (D3) FS

Reading of selected works by several classical and modern political philosophers, such as Aristotle, Hobbes, and Marx; study of their relevance to contemporary political issues. Capstone writing course in the major.

0103. Evidence, Proof, and Knowledge: An Introduction to Research Methods (3 s.h.) (D4) FS

Elementary statistics, survey research techniques, research design, and data processing.

0105. The American Presidency (3 s.h.) F

The role of the chief executive, the American presidency, in the political process.

0107. American Federalism (3 s.h.) S

Federalism in its modern form is perhaps the single most important theoretical contribution the American system of government has made to the history of political thought. This course will examine this concept, its manifestation, and the effect this federal practice has had on the American political system.

0110. The Legislative Process (3 s.h.) F

Covers the legislative process of both the U.S. Congress and state legislatures. Includes the lawmaking process, legislative organization, leadership and policymaking, lobbying and elections, and the careers and characteristics of legislators.

0115. The American Supreme Court (3 s.h.) F

An examination of judicial decision making and the interrelationships between the Court and other aspects of the political process.

0116. Judicial and Bureaucratic Administration of Justice (3 s.h.) F

The course provides an introduction to the structure and functions of the American legal system, its relation to other parts of the American political system, and how law contributes to public policy.

0117. American Constitutional Principles I (3 s.h.) F

Constitutional bases of American system of government including federal powers in war, taxation, interstate and federal-state relations, and interstate commerce.

0118. American Constitutional Principles II (3 s.h.) S

Civil rights in America, including the Constitutional protections of freedom of speech, press, assembly, and religion.

0125. Media and the Political Process (3 s.h.) S

Relationship between the mass media and American politics. Government regulation of the mass media, media coverage of public affairs, political effects of entertainment programming, uses and influence of the media in the election process. Both print and broadcast media. Research project required.

0126. American Public Opinion (3 s.h.) FS

The development of public opinion and political ideology in the U.S. The social psychology of political attitudes, the role of the mass media and the news in the formation of political opinion. The influence of public opinion upon government policy.

0127. Campaigns, Elections, and the Media (3 s.h.) (D3) FS

Role of elections in contemporary American society. Special attention to parties and mass media as participants in campaigns. Factors affecting voting behavior of the mass public and the linkages voting provides between the public and policy formation.

0129. American Party System (3 s.h.) S

The evolution and organization of political parties in the United States, including nominating systems, campaigns, election laws, types of ballots, and electoral reform techniques.

0132. Biology, Society, and Politics (3 s.h.) S

How genetic and other biological factors may influence political life, with special emphasis on the new emerging fields of sociobiology and neurobiology.

0135. Urban Politics and Problems (3 s.h.) (D3) FS

An overview of the politics of urban areas. Electoral politics, government structure, race, finance, education, housing, neighborhoods, and economic and historical forces on politics in urban areas.

0136. Metropolitan Philadelphia (3 s.h.) S

An examination of the political system of Philadelphia, including such issues as the division of power between the Mayor and City Council; matters of party and interest group politics as they impact on Philadelphia government; and relationships among city government, the Commonwealth, and the Federal government.

0141. Suburban Politics (3 s.h.) S

Analyzes and describes suburban political processes with emphasis on land use patterns, service provision, and governmental organization. Attention is given to relationships with central cities and to "metropolitan cooperation."

0143. Popular Culture and the City (3 s.h.) S

Course will examine how the city is depicted in films and literature, exploring such prominent political topics as anti-urbanism; political machines, corruption, and reform; industrialization and immigrant life; post-industrialism and urban decline. Attention will also be given to the physical city and spatial use as expressions of dominant political and cultural values. (Cross-listed with American Studies 0142 and Geography and Urban Studies 0142.)

0145. American State and Local Politics (3 s.h.) FS

Government and politics of subnational units including states, counties, cities, towns, and townships in urban, suburban, and rural areas. Relationship of state and local policy to citizens, other governmental units, and the American political system.

0150. U.S. Public Policy Making (3 s.h.) S

Selected policy areas in a variety of national settings. The relationship of political cultures and policy making structures to policy outputs.

0151. Public Policy Analysis (3 s.h.) F

Selected contemporary public policy issues. Begins with an examination of the national political-economic context within which major policy issues arise and then turns to the analysis of the roots and policy alternatives on several major issues. Issues may concern health, energy, education, employment, welfare, and the regulation of business.

0152. U.S. Environmental Policy (3 s.h.) S

An analytical examination of the development and execution of governmental policies in such areas as air and water pollution control, control of atomic energy, and planning of space exploration program.

0158. Business and Public Policy (3 s.h.) S

Major public policy issues concerning business in the United States, including regulation and deregulation, antitrust, free trade and protectionism, re-industrialization, and government assistance for declining industries.The nature of business influence in the making of governmental policies that affect its interests.

0165. Public Administration (3 s.h.) (D3) F

The basic concepts and approaches to public management and public policy making in public administration.

W190. Political Fiction (3 s.h.) S

This course is intended to provide an understanding of the subtleties of American politics by reading novels and viewing films as well as through the more traditional literature of political science.

0201. Democracy in West Europe (3 s.h.) S

Explores the institutions established in West European nations intended to preserve social stability, produce economic prosperity, and guarantee democracy, asking whether these goals are complementary or contradictory. A country-by-country examination of post-war political development in Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and Sweden. Emphasis on the political problems of the present. Accordingly, the course closes with an examination of the European integration process and the sweeping changes of East Europe affecting all of Europe.

0205. British Government and Politics (3 s.h.) S

They are "changing the guard at Buckingham Palace." The course examines the political changes now underway in post-Thatcherite Britain. The role of the Royals in a high-tech, multicultural society will be studied with the aid of appropriate films.

0210. Russia and New Democracies (3 s.h.) F

Focus on the decline of the Soviet system in the 1980's and efforts in the 1990's to build democracy in Russia. Ukraine and other successor republics. Review of Russian and Soviet political history, from Tsarist times to Gorbachev, for perspective on present political experiences. Attention to current policy problems in the economy, society, ethnic relations, and relations with the U.S.

0211. Eastern Europe, Russia, and the West (3 s.h.) S

The politics of the countries of Eastern Europe, with emphasis on their political history and evolution in the era of Communist rule and the progress toward developing democracy in the post-Communist era. Attention also to the international situation of these countries, their role in Soviet-American relations, and their place in the larger European context.

0212. Post-Communist Regimes (3 s.h.) 96-98

Central focus on political change in formerly communist political systems. In many, major attention is given to the process of establishing constitutional processes and promoting pluralist societies; in others, to the policies of neo-communist and nationalist-communist regimes. Problems of defining or re-defining a national identity; nationalist parties and ideologies; challenges from ultra-nationalist, fascist and other anti-democratic movements; dealing with ethnic and national conflict. The political consequences of planned and spontaneous changes in the economic system. Countries included are selected from eastern Europe, parts of the former Soviet Union and southeast Asia.

0215. Comparative Politics: Developing Nations (3 s.h.) F

This course describes and analyzes political patterns in the third world. It provides a descriptive overview, analyzes domestic political trends within the context of the global system, and reviews current trends.

0225. Government and Politics of the Middle East (3 s.h.) FS

Political behavior and institutions of the Middle East. The Arafat-Rabin handshake has changed the Middle East political scene in fundamental ways. With the aid of film, the class will examine the role of religion and culture in shaping the destiny of the exploding populations of the oil-rich region.

0226. Conflict Resolution in the Middle East (3 s.h.) 96-98

This course deals with reasons for long-standing conflict between Israel and her Arab neighbors, as well as the propsects and techniques for resolving conflicts in the region.

0236. China: Politics and Revolution (3 s.h.) S

Contemporary Chinese government and politics, together with a survey of the political history of China in the 20th century. Emphasis is on the evolution of the political system and political culture through successive periods of reform and repression. (Cross-listed with Asian Studies 0241.)

0238. East Asia and the United States (3 s.h.) S

An introduction to the international relations of countries of the "Pacific Rim." Major focus on their political, strategic, and economic relations with the United States, plus attention to domestic factors affecting their foreign relations. (Cross-listed with Asian Studies 0240.)

0240. Politics of Genocide (3 s.h.) F

Since the end of World War II, more people have died in genocides than ever before in history. With the Holocaust as the paradigm, the course will study the tragic proliferation of genocides in a world of nation-states.

0241. Nationalism, Ethnicity, and Politics (3 s.h.) S

When the U.S. was founded as the first modern nation-state, it set in motion a global transformation of the state system that has still to run its course. The class will study, with the aid of film, the causes, theories, and projections of this development.

0242. Politics and Religion (3 s.h.) F

Not so long ago, theologians were saying, "God is dead." The latest evidence suggests that religion is very much alive. With the aid of film, the class will examine the political consequences of this phenomenon in several major areas.

0244. Politics of Modern Capitalism (3 s.h.) S

Since the early 1970's, all advanced industrial democracies have faced challenges in adjusting to a changing international economy. We will examine how different countries, including the United States, Japan, Britain, France, and Germany, have tried to meet these challenges. The main question guiding the course is: Why do countries respond to roughly similar problems in different ways, and what do these responses reveal about politics in these countries? Topics covered will include macroeconomic policy, trade and industrial policies, industrial relations, business-government relations, and the welfare state; also given as writing course.

0250. Foreign Policy Analysis (3 s.h.) S

This course examines how foreign policy is made by the governments of nation-states, as well as what determines the distinctive foreign policies of such states as the U.S., Russia, China, Japan, Germany, France, the U.K., and others.

0251. Current U.S. Foreign Relations (3 s.h.) FS

Description, analyses, and evaluation of contemporary U.S. foreign relations, in particular the end of the cold war and relations with major allies (western Europe and Japan) and the developing countries in the post-cold war period.

0253. Russia and World Affairs (3 s.h.) S

The main emphasis in on current foreign policies of Russia and other republics of the former Soviet Union, and their role vis-–-vis Europe, the United States, and Asia in the post-cold war era. Included is substantial background in Soviet foreign policy between the end of World War II and the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991, plus selective attention to foreign policy in the Tsarist and early periods.

0260. Post-Cold War Security (3 s.h.) 96-98

An examination of security issues at the end of the cold war. Topics include military deterrence, weapons proliferation, arms control, terrorism, and threats to global economic and environmental security.

0261. The Politics of Multinational Corporations (3 s.h.) F

An introduction to the study of international political economy. Major focus is government-business relations; in particular, the development and organization of transnational corporations, how the activities of these business enterprises affect the goals and situation of national states and the structure of interstate relations, and the methods by which national states can respond to international corporate activity.

W262. The International Legal Order (3 s.h.) F

The historical development of international law in its relation to the evolution of the world political system, with analysis of contemporary world order issues, e.g., warfare, political and economic development, human rights, the environment.

0263. International Organization (3 s.h.) S

Development and current roles of regional and universal international organizations with emphasis on the United Nations. The major international conflicts of recent decades in the organizational context.

0264. International Conflict Management (3 s.h.) S

An examination of the role of negotiation and mediation in resolving international conflict. Case studies and simulations of recent or current international conflict situations will be utilized.

0265. International Environmental Policy (3 s.h.) 96-98

International negotiations and agreements on environmental problems, and comparisons of domestic environmental policy making among selected countries. Special attention to negotiations on atmospheric and oceanic policies, international regulation of nuclear materials, and environmental aspects of international trade agreements.

0270. Classical Political Philosophy (3 s.h.) F

Close study of works by one or more political philosophers, stressing their relevance to an understanding of contemporary politics.

0271. Modern Political Philosophy (3 s.h.) S

Close study of works by one or more modern political philosophers, stressing their relevance to an understanding of contemporary politics.

0272. American Political Thought (3 s.h.) S

Significant political ideas from the American colonial period to the present and the influences of these ideas on contemporary American political institutions.

0273. Marxism and Politics (3 s.h.) S

A theoretical and historical examination of the role of Marxism in the development of 20th century political regimes, including former and present Communist states, West European social democracy, and Third World nations. Particular focus will be placed on debates within the Marxist tradition and between Marxism and its critics in regard to issues of equality, liberty, and democracy. An attempt will be made to see what aspects (if any) of Marxism remain relevant to the prospect of radical democratic change.

0274. Human Nature and Politics (3 s.h.) S

Human behavior and its relationship with politics and political philosophy.

0275. Theory and Uses of Power (3 s.h.) S

The concepts and major models of power and their applications to American politics.

0276. Democracy, Capitalism, and Socialism (3 s.h.) F

An examination of some of the major political ideologies dominant in the twentieth century and of the tensions and points of convergence between them.

0277. Theories of Justice (3 s.h.) F

Both analytical and historical perspectives of some of the major theories of justice that have been propounded throughout the course of Western history.

0291. Junior Fall Honors Seminar (3 s.h.) F

Prerequisite: Approval of departmental Honors Committee, 3.3 cumulative grade average, 3.3 average in political science, and completion of two of the four political science courses. Only political science majors in their sophomore year or above may apply. Successful completion of the honors program involves grade of B or better in two of the four offered honors seminars: PS 0291, PS 0292, PS 0391, and PS 0392. The fall junior honors seminar (taught as a combined seminar with PS 0391) will rotate among selected advanced topics in one of the major fields in Political Science (international relations, American government, political theory, comparative politics and public policy). The seminar will focus on a close analysis and discussion of assigned readings and a final research paper (as well as other short written assignments). Check with the honors seminar coordinator for the topic and instructor for a specific semester.

0292. Junior Honors Seminar (3 s.h.) S

Prerequisite: Same as PS 0291. Students may apply for admission to the honors program any time before the fall semester of their senior year. The spring honors seminar (taught as a combined semester with PS 0392) will rotate among selected advanced topics in one of the major fields of Political Science (international relations, American government, political theory, comparative politics, and public policy). The seminar will focus on a close analysis and discussion of assigned readings and a final research paper (as well as other short written assignments). Check with the honors seminar coordinator for the topic and instructor for a specific semester.

0302. Women and Politics (3 s.h.) S

The women's movement and its implications for public policy. The role of politics and political philosophy in restraining women's opportunities; an examination of the ideological roots of feminism; present discrimination in the workplace; and women as political activists.

0303. Seminar in American Government (3 s.h.) 96-98

Examines a topic of contemporary interest in American politics and government.

0310. Seminar in Comparative Politics (3 s.h.) S

Examines a topic of contemporary interest in comparative politics.

0316. Seminar in International Politics (3 s.h.) 96-98

Examines a topic of contemporary interest in international politics.

0322. Seminar in Political Philosophy (3 s.h.) 96-98

Examines a topic of contemporary interest in political philosophy.

0327. Seminar in Public Administration (3 s.h.) 96-98

Examines a topic of contemporary interest in public administration.

0371-0372-0373. Cooperative Education Project in Political Science I, II, III (3 s.h. each) FS

Provides political science majors with work experience relating to their academic training. Juniors and seniors with a minimum overall average of 2.0 accepted subject to approval by departmental co-op committee chairperson.

0382-0383-0384. Directed Research and Field Study (2, 2, 3 s.h., respectively) FS

Prerequisites: Four courses in political science. Supervised individual readings, research projects, and field work. Students may not enroll for more than one 0380's course in a single semester. Students are to arrange study with a faculty member in the Department of Political Science.

0391. Senior Fall Honors Seminar (3 s.h.) F

Prerequisites: Either previous admission to the departmental honors program and successful completion of PS 0291 or 0292 or approval of departmental Honors Committee, 3.3 cumulative grade average, 3.3 average in political science, and completion of two of the four required political science courses. Students entering the honors program in their senior year must apply prior to the end of their junior year. Successful completion of the honors program involves grade of B or better in two of the following four honors seminars: PS 0291, PS 0292, PS 0391, and PS 0392. The fall junior honors seminar (taught as a combined seminar with PS 0291) will rotate among selected advanced topics in one of the major fields in Political Science (international relations, American government, political theory, comparative politics, and public policy). The seminar will focus on a close analysis and discussion of assigned readings and a final research paper (as well as other short written assignments). Check with the honors seminar coordinator for the topic and instructor for a specific semester.

0392. Senior Honors Seminar (3 s.h.) F

Prerequisite: Previous admission to the departmental honors program and successful completion of either PS 0291, PS 0292, or PS 0391. Successful completion of the honors program involves grade of B or better in two of the following four honors seminars: PS 0291, PS 0292, PS 0391, and PS 0392. The spring honors seminar (taught as a combined seminar with PS 0291) will rotate among selected advanced topics in one of the major fields in Political Science (international relations, American government, political theory, comparative politics, and public policy). The seminar will focus on a close analysis and discussion of assigned readings and a final research paper (as well as other short written assignments). Check with the honors seminar coordinator for the topic and instructor for a specific semester.

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