Course Descriptions
PO 11 Introduction to American Politics
An examination of the American political system and the American political culture; consideration of the major political institutions in relation to policy perspectives; an examination of the ability of the political system to deal with societal problems; analysis of proposals for reform of the political system.
3 credits
PO 12 Introduction to Comparative Politics
This course surveys selected industrialized and non-industrialized nations. It seeks to explore the relationship between cultural and socio-economic conditions and political behavior, while illustrating some of the basic concepts and methods of comparative political analysis.
3 credits
PO 14 Introduction to Political Theory
This course is designed to introduce students to the field of Western political theory. It analyzes the liberal political theories of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke and J.S. Mill and compares and contrasts them to a variety of communitarian, socialist and anarchist political theories.
3 credits
PO 111 Western Political Thought I: Ancient and Medieval
This course focuses on the ancient and medieval traditions in Western political theory. First, we will situate the political theories of theorists such as Thucydides, Plato, and Aristotle in the historical context of ancient Athens and assess their contemporary relevance as theories of the good political order. We will then examine the Christian recuperation of these ancient thinkers, focusing on the contributions of theorists such as Augustine and Aquinas to this conversation about the nature of political life. We will finish with a consideration of Machiavelli's political thought and the transition to modern political theory.
3 credits
PO 112 Western Political Thought II: Modern
This course focuses on the modern tradition of Western political theory. We will carefully examine the work of four thinkers, including theorists such as Karl Marx, Max Weber, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Michel Foucault. Each of these theorists presents a critical assessment of the nature and value of modern society's cherished ideals of social and economic progress, scientific reason, and individual autonomy and liberty. This course is designed to come to terms with these unique, timely, and very controversial insights into the possibilities and limits of life in the modern age.
3 credits
PO 115 Introduction to the Study of Peace and Justice
The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the concepts of peace and justice, the connections between them, and the relationship of these concepts to the idea of faith. The course will focus on studies beginning with an analysis of the crisis of America's cities and finds the causes in deindustrialization and its resulting poverty. This poverty is then compared to the poverty in developing nations, specifically in Central America. In both cases poverty is viewed as the effect of unjust economic and social structures including exaggerated military budgets at home and the militarization of developing countries. A theoretical basis for the study of these fundamental problems in justice and peace is provided by examining them according to the principles of Marxism, Liberalism and Catholicism. Each of these traditions has its own perspective for understanding these problems and for responding to them. In this way the course provides both an awareness of the major problems in justice and peace as well as an understanding of the different ways to think about them.
3 credits
PO 118 American Political Thought
This course considers the philosophical roots of American political thought and the influence of the American revolutionaries, constitution-makers, Federalists, Jeffersonians, Jacksonians, Tocqueville, Civil Warmakers, examiners of the welfare state, pragmatists, and new frontiersmen on the contemporary American mind and institutions. Challenges and reform of the American political system will also be treated within the scope of political science through an application of the concepts of human nature, idealism, constitutional power, and nationalism.
3 credits
PO 119 Feminist Political Thought
This course examines the development of U.S. feminist theory from the 1960s to the present. We will explore the similarities and differences among several approaches to feminist theorizing that emerged out of the U.S. women's movement, including liberal feminism, radical feminism, socialist feminism, postmodernist feminism, and the feminisms of women of color.
3 credits
PO 123 Modern Political Ideologies
An examination of the prevailing political belief systems in the modern world. Contemporary theories of democracy will be analyzed, with special reference to the question of democracy's ability to deal with the problems of American society. Marxism will be explored in terms of the political and economic ideas of Marx and Engels as well as the modifications made in their system by Lenin and Mao Tse-tung. The basic concepts of fascism will be discussed and an analysis will be made of the meaning of totalitarianism.
3 credits
PO 124 Marxist Political Thought
This course will provide a careful treatment and evaluation of the social and political thought of Karl Marx. In addition, the course will examine the intellectual environment in which Marx worked and conclude with some discussion of contemporary approaches to Marxist thought.
3 credits
PO 130 International Relations
The experience of conflict and cooperation among the nations of the modern world is viewed in terms of the principles of realpolitik, morality, international law, and international organization. Special attention is given to the arms race and other contemporary issues. The class will simulate possible future conflicts. (Formerly listed as PO 147; not open to students who have taken PO 147).
3 credits
PO 131 International Organization
The course examines the history, role and functions of international organizations, both intergovernmental and non-governmental, and reviews the current trend toward greater reliance on multilateral political efforts in relations among nations. A review of major theories and concepts of international organizations is followed by a detailed examination of the United Nations, its Charter and related specialized agencies. Current efforts to reform the United Nations in a political situation different from the world of 1945 are also discussed. Other major themes include the development of some major regional organizations such as the NATO alliance and the new OESC, multipurpose organizations (OAS, OAU) and functional organizations such as the European Union. Students will also learn about the role of non-governmental organizations in fields such as human rights or environmental protection.
3 credits
PO 133 United States Foreign Policy
Review of the Cold War from orthodox and revisionist perspectives. Munich and Vietnam "syndromes." Discussion of various factors in the struggle to control foreign policy. Problems of nuclear strategy, trade, aid, espionage, etc. Major contemporary policies and commitments will be debated by the class. (Formerly listed as PO 148; not open to students who have taken PO 148).
3 credits
PO 134 International Political Economy
This course studies developments in the world in which economics and politics--wealth and power--are intertwined. It examines how political power shapes economic outcomes and how economic forces influence political action. Among topics to be explored are the management of global interdependence, the rise and decline of U.S. power, the formation of economic blocs, the impact of multinational corporations, the politics of the Third World debt and foreign aid, the rise of Japan and the problems of transition to a market economy in post communist countries.
3 credits
PO 135 Peace and War in the Nuclear Age
An analysis of the nuclear arms race and the efforts to end it. The course focuses on the major weapons systems, nuclear strategies, and comparative strengths of the two superpowers. Attention is devoted to a reexamination of American attitudes toward the Soviet Union including its history and its security concerns. The various arms control and disarmament proposals are evaluated and debated. Other implications of the arms race are examined, including the morality of nuclear weapons policies and the economic impact of large scale military expenditures. Consideration is also given to the roles that citizens can play in attempting to reverse the arms race establish peace. (Formerly listed as PO 114; not open to students who have taken PO 114).
3 credits
PO 140 European Politics
An analysis of political institutions and dynamics of Great Britain, France, Germany, and Italy. The relationship between the political culture and the political system will be emphasized. Alternate methods of dealing with societal problems will be analyzed. (Formerly listed as PO 120; not open to students who have taken PO 120).
3 credits
PO 141 African Politics
This course aims to analyze the major issues and problems that dominate African politics. It is designed to provide students with a basic understanding of African politics and society from a comparative perspective. It will examine such key themes as neocolonialism, the roles of religion and the military in politics, and the prospects of democracy in Africa.
3 credits
PO 142 Latin American Politics
Building a strong political system seems an impossibility in a setting of economic underdevelopment and socio-cultural disunity. This course studies the democracies and tyrannies of the mainland countries of Latin America: Mexico, Central America, Venezuela and Colombia, Peru and Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. In particular it examines the revolutionary method of change and reviews the policy dilemmas of land reform, industrialization, and control of natural resources. United States foreign policy toward the area--both past and present--are reviewed. Research projects expected.
3 credits
PO 143 Caribbean Politics
Racism and ethnic conflict, colonialism and neocolonialism, grating poverty and bustling tourism all have their impact on the politics of these struggling countries. Migration across the first world’s borders is examined. Countries studied include Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad, Guyana, and Suriname.
3 credits
PO 144 Middle Eastern Politics
This course aims to analyze the major issues and problems that dominate the Middle Eastern scene. It is designed to provide students with a basic knowledge of Middle Eastern politics from a comparative perspective. The social, economic, cultural and political sources of conflict and change will be examined and key themes such as the prospects for democracy, oil and development, Islam and politics, will be critically assessed.
3 credits
PO 145 The Major Powers of Asia
An analysis of the institutions and dynamics of China, Japan, and India. The relationship between the political culture and the political system will be emphasized; the different paths towards modernization taken by each will be analyzed; foreign policies of each of the nations will be discussed.
3 credits
PO 146 Vietnam and the American Experience
This course will explore the roots of the American involvement in Vietnam. Conflicting theories exploring that experience will be analyzed. The course will further investigate the clash of cultures involved in the war and the impact of that war on both American and Southeast Asian societies.
3 credits
PO 148 Central and Eastern European Politics
A review of the 20th century political experience of Central and Eastern Europe with an emphasis on developments since 1989. Main themes include: politics of nationalism and the disintegration of Yugoslavia; the breakup of Czechoslovakia as a unitary state; and problems of transition from the system of one-party rule to multi-party democracy and free market economy. The course will also explain the reasons behind the Central and East European interest in "civil society"--a term that has come to mean new standards of pluralism, tolerance and general politeness, as advocated by political leaders like Vaclav Havel. In addition, the course examines problems of security and cooperation in the region as a whole and analyzes the debate over future membership of Central European countries in the European Union and NATO, and the possibilities of the new Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Familiarity with at least one work of fiction by an Eastern European author and with a film illustrating the political and human condition in the region are part of the course requirements. (formerly listed as PO 139; not open to students who have taken PO 139.)
3 credits
PO 149 Politics in the Developing World
This course examines issues relevant to countries in the Third World. It surveys such key topics as theories of imperialism and underdevelopment, the political economy of development, gender and development, state-society relations, the dynamics of revolution, the search for democracy and North-South relations. The course draws examples from four regions of the Third World: Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East.
3 credits
PO 150 Urban Politics
Structures and processes of urban politics will be examined. The major participants and policy areas of urban political processes will be considered. The evolution of urban areas will be set in historical perspective. Major contemporary problems will be discussed and alternative solutions will be analyzed.
3 credits
PO 152 Modern Italian Politics: Theory and Practice
This introductory-level course is designed for students who have a lively curiosity about Italy. They observe and learn about Italy from the perspective of Italian political life and political culture. In examining modern Italy, students are also introduced to definitions, concepts, distinctions and theories that are fundamental to the study of political science and, in particular, the subfields of comparative politics and political philosophy.
3 credits
PO 155 Public Administration
The course will focus on the role of the bureaucracy within the political process. The problems of efficiency and accountability will be examined. The classic models of bureaucratic organization and function will be studied in juxtaposition to the reality of bureaucratic operation. Proposed reforms will be analyzed in order to determine the viability of change.
3 credits
PO 161 The American Presidency
A study of the role of the President in the political system. The origins, qualifications and limitations of office will be considered as the President functions as chief executive, legislative leader, and link with the Courts. The obtaining of presidential powers, his roles as party leader and politician are also examined as a means of evaluating presidential achievement of domestic and foreign policy goals. Questions of reform are also reviewed.
3 credits
PO 162 United States Congress
A study of Congress within the context of the political system and an analysis of its constitutional powers; historical development; processes of recruitment; formal organization; committee system; social make-up; folkways; political leaders; constituency and interest group influences as well as consideration of its domestic and foreign policy outputs. Chances for reform and evolution will be considered.
3 credits
PO 163 Supreme Court I
An examination of the politics of the Supreme Court. The relationship between the Court and the remainder of the political system will be analyzed. Direct attention to the Court's treatment of government power including commerce clause, taxing power, and relations between the branches. The political consequences of Court decisions will be emphasized.
3 credits
PO 164 Supreme Court II
An examination of the individual and the Court. Direct attention paid to Supreme Court decisions regarding civil liberties, including freedoms of speech, press, religion, and assembly. Also an examination of the rights of accused persons and the 14th amendment equal protection. The political implications of these decisions will be emphasized as well as the political environment in which the Court functions.
3 credits
PO 165 Political Parties, Interest Groups, and Public Opinion
This course will examine various linkage models that describe representation of citizens by leaders. Moreover, the course will examine political parties, interest groups, and public opinion in terms of their contributions to popular control of American politics. What mechanisms do citizens have to gain compliance for their policy preferences? How responsive are decision makers in the American system to citizens' demands? These questions and others will be considered in the course.
3 credits
PO 166 Private Power and Public Policy
An examination of some of the major policy problems facing American society today: poverty, pollution, the medical care system, and the military-industrial complex. The causes of these problems will be discussed particularly in terms of the influence of private economic power and especially large corporations. Finally, an analysis will be made of the policies formulated by the federal government in response to these questions.
3 credits
PO 167 Media and Politics
This course is designed to examine the impact of the media on the American political system and conversely how government attempts to influence the media for its purposes. The implications of the electronic media for a democratic and informed society will be examined, and close attention paid to the media's impact on national elections. Finally, the media as an agent of political socialization will be analyzed. (Formerly listed as PO 190; not open to students who have taken PO 190).
3 credits
PO 168 Politics of Mass Popular Culture
This course will survey the political aspects of American popular culture by examining the relationship between sports and politics, the politics of rock music, and political humor and political satire of American politics. Mass popular culture often serves as regime-maintaining diversions. What values and political positions do organized sports in the U.S. convey? What is the political impact of American popular music? How have citizens used political humor and satire of American politics to develop an outlook toward government? These questions and others will be explored in the course.
3 credits
PO 221 British Seminar
In a seminar format this course will use an interdisciplinary approach, political science, sociology, modern British drama, novels, to look at the structure and changing nature of British society and politics. Course will focus on the role of class, racial problems, declining economy, devolution, and secessionist problems, as well as solutions offered to these problems by contemporary Labour and Conservative governments. Professor's permission required. (Formerly listed as PO 321; not open to students who have taken PO 321.)
3 credits
PO 246 Seminar on China
An examination of the major problems of contemporary Chinese society with a particular emphasis on political socialization and the Chinese political culture and the role(s) of such groups as students, peasants, women, etc. The seminar will attempt to focus on these problems through an analysis of political philosophy, short stories, novels, plays, and biographies, by Chinese writers and Western scholars and observers. Professor's permission required. (Formerly listed as PO 346; not open to students who have taken PO 346.)
3 credits
PO 249 Seminar on Russia
Survey of Russian political, economic, and social developments under Communism. The scene is set with a review of conditions that preceded the Revolution. The changes wrought by the Revolution and some of their unanticipated consequences will be examined. Special attention will be given to the dilemma in Mikhail Gorbachev's and Boris Yeltsin's efforts to restructure and open the society. U.S.-Soviet relations will be reviewed. Professor's permission required. (Formerly listed as PO 349; not open to students who have taken PO 349.)
3 credits
PO 296 State Legislature Internship
Junior and senior Politics majors may participate in the Connecticut General Assembly Legislative Internship Program. Students become acquainted with the legislative process by serving as aides to a legislator--research paper is required. Prerequisites: 3.0 Q.P.A.; PO 11 & 12; either PO 155, or 165; departmental approval.*
6 credits
PO 297 Washington Semester Internship
Junior and senior Politics majors may work full-time as interns in a variety of public and private sector positions in the nation's capital. This provides them the opportunity to experience governmental problems firsthand and apply what they have learned. Nine credits are awarded for the internship, 3 credits for a course taken in Washington, D.C., and 3 credits for a major research paper. Prerequisites: 3.0 Q.P.A.; PO11 & 12; at least one American and one international politics course; departmental approval.*
15 credits
PO 298 Politics Internship
Junior and senior Politics majors have first-hand experience working off campus in fields related to their major. Typically, an internship requires 10-12 hours per week on site. A journal and term paper are required. Work is evaluated by both an on-site supervisor and a politics professor. (Prerequisites: 3.0 G.P.A.; PO 11, 12 & 14; departmental approval.*)
3 credits
PO 299 Urban and Municipal Internship
Junior and senior Politics majors will work under supervision 10-12 hours per week at local government agencies and public interest organizations. A journal and term paper is normally required. Prerequisites: 3.0 Q.P.A.; PO 11 & 12; either PO 150 or 155; departmental approval.*
3 credits
PO 346 Seminar on Vietnam
This seminar analyzes the nature of traditional Vietnamese culture on Vietnam's many wars: with China for one thousand years, with the French from 1946-54, with America from 1962-73 and with Cambodia after 1975. Much of the seminar focuses on 'America's war' with Vietnam and the impact of American society on that war. The course also analyzes the effects of the events of 1962-73 on America and on those fought in that conflict. (Prerequisite: PO 146 or permission of the instructor.)
3 credits
PO 398 Senior Independent Research
Seniors may do independent work in one of three areas: (1) library research on a selected topic; (2) field research; or (3) directed reading on a selected topic. Each student involved in such a course will work under the direction of one of the members of the Department. Taught both fall and spring semesters.
3 credits | 
