Studies the course of political theory from the late 19th century through the present. Includes the major critical perspectives on modern politics and culture (existentialism, feminism, post-modernism, 'critical theory') and explores the problems that have preoccupied political theory in this period (alienation, language, individualism and discrimination). Prerequisite: One course in political theory or instructor permission.

Studies the development of political theory from the Renaissance through the nineteenth century.

Democracy in America

Examines the threat and use of military force in international relations. Includes deterrence theory and recent critiques, ethical and international legal considerations, domestic constraints, and the postwar U.S. and Soviet experiences with the use of force. Prerequisite: One course in PLIR or instructor permission.

Investigates a selected issue in American government or American political development. Prerequisite: One course in PLAP or instructor permission.

Examines the role of mass media in the political process including such topics as print, broadcast, and online news, media and election campaigns, political advertising, and media effects on public opinion and political participation.

Considers the impact of nuclear weapons on the relations among states. Prerequisite: One course in PLIR or instructor permission.

Seminar focusing on politics of the international trade and monetary systems, emphasizing third world industrialization, trade conflicts between the U.S. and Japan, and the global debt crisis. Prerequisite: PLIR 2050 or instructor permission.

This course explores the theoretical ideas that informed the creation and development of America's political system and considers some of the major contemporary challenges to the maintenance of American liberal democracy. Topics to be treated include the political thought of the American Founders, the place of religion in public life, the nature of written constitutions and the role of America in the world.

Surveys the development of the American tradition of free government emphasizing the major contributors and their critics.