58 classes matched your search criteria.

Fall 2021  |  POL 1001 Section 001: American Democracy in a Changing World (20200)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 01:00PM - 02:15PM
UMTC, West Bank
Willey Hall 125
Enrollment Status:
Open (138 of 182 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
This course is intended to introduce students to the expressed hopes of the American people for their government and to the institutions and processes that have been created and recreated to achieve these hopes. The course is designed to help students understand what liberal education is by engaging in the study of American politics as a fundamentally critical and creative enterprise, and by grappling with the most complex and challenging problems of political life, such as the sources of political equality and inequality, and the tension between individual aspirations and political control. Questions of power and choice, opportunity and discrimination, freedom and restrictions on freedom are fundamental to the historical development of and current controversies within the American political system, and we will attend to all of these. We will explore topics including the ideas underlying the nation's founding and its constitutional foundations; civil rights and civil liberties; the role of the United States in an increasingly globalized world; the structure and function of American political institutions; and the behavior of American citizens in the political process. In addition, we will learn to think and communicate like political scientists. We will read primary documents, such as the Federalist papers, engage with scholarly arguments about the way the American political system works, and critically evaluate critiques of the American political system that have been offered from a variety of perspectives. By the end of the semester students should have a basic understanding of the structure and function of American government as well as an increased ability to critically reflect on the degree to which our institutions, processes, and citizens live up to the expectations placed on them. Students will be able to identify, define, and solve problems and to locate and critically evaluate information. Students will have mastered a body of knowledge and a mod
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?cdmyers+POL1001+Fall2021
Class Description:

Why doesn't Congress seem to work? Why do Americans love democracy, but hate politics? Why are there only two political parties, and why do they seem to despise each other so much? This course will introduce students to politics in the United States, addressing these and many more questions about how the American political system really works. We will begin with the founding principles and historical development of the American system of government and then move on to examine the contemporary structure and function of American political institutions and the role that average citizens play in the political process. Students will exit the class with a better understanding of how the American political system succeeds or fails at living up to our ideals and what we can do about it.

Who Should Take This Class?:
This class will be of interest to anyone who wants a better understanding of how the American political system operates, what is going on in Washington, or how to effect change in our current political climate. The class is also an entry point for the department's upper division American politics classes, including classes on political psychology, social movements, Congress, the Supreme Court, and state and local government.
Grading:
Grades will be based on three elements. Short quizzes at the beginning of each class will evaluate students' comprehension of key concepts from readings and lecture (40%), three long quizzes over the course of the semester will evaluate students' ability to apply these concepts to new situations and problems (40%), and a final paper will evaluate students' ability to use these concepts to advance and defend an argument (20%).
Exam Format:
All short quizzes will be multiple choice and closed book. All long quizzes will be short answer/essay and open book.
Class Format:
Class is lecture based, but "lecture" will be broken up by short writing exercises, small group discussion, and other exercises that will ask you to apply the concepts you are learning in real time. While these will not be graded, engaging fully with them will make the subsequent quizzes and essays much, much easier.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/20200/1219
Past Syllabi:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/cdmyers_POL1001_Fall2018.docx (Fall 2018)
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/cdmyers_POL1001_Fall2017.docx (Fall 2017)
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/cdmyers_POL1001_Fall2016.docx (Fall 2016)
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
27 March 2017

Fall 2021  |  POL 1019 Section 001: Indigenous Peoples in Global Perspective (22345)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
A-F or Audit
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Meets With:
AMIN 1002 Section 002
AMIN 1002 Section 001
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 11:15AM - 12:30PM
UMTC, East Bank
Elliott Hall N119
Enrollment Status:
Closed (15 of 15 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Colonial experiences of selected indigenous peoples in Americas, Euroasia, Pacific Rim.
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22345/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 1025 Section 001: Global Politics (19046)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
4 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 09:45AM - 11:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Walter F. Mondale Hall 20
Enrollment Status:
Open (83 of 85 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Global politics is complex, fast-paced, and often confusing. Seeking to reveal the deeper processes at work in the international system, this introductory course explores both the enduring challenges of international politics as well as more recent transformative trends? What has changed and what has stayed the same. It introduces theoretical traditions, but the course's focus is on making sense of real-world problems, both today and in the past. Why and when do states go to war and use military force? Why do they sign international agreements and treaties, on matters from arms control to investment? What effect does international trade have on the distribution of global wealth, and why do barriers to trade arise? Why has human rights emerged as a central problem in world politics? Why has our world become an increasingly legalized and regulated space? And what difference does it make? What good are nuclear weapons? Why do some turn to terrorism to advance their political agenda? Does foreign aid make the world a better place? How can we reduce global inequality? What are the prospects for international cooperation to address climate change? These are among the pressing real-world questions that this course in Global Politics will address? And that it will give you the tools to answer, though particular instructors will naturally choose to emphasize different topics and questions. But the course will also highlight how our answers to these questions are changing along with the deep power structures of global politics-as US dominance wanes and others, most notably China, rise; as core ideas and discourses underpinning the international system, such as sovereignty, come under assault; and as institutions, such as those governing international law, thicken. Global Politics is an essential guide to our increasingly globalized world.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?rkrebs+POL1025+Fall2021
Class Description:
Americans hardly need to be told that international politics matters. US forces are still deployed around the globe, and economic uncertainty has barely abated. Knowing that international politics matters is one thing, making sense of it is another. This course will give students the tools they need to begin to understand patterns and trends in global politics. Students will be introduced to international relations' theoretical traditions, but the course will focus primarily on explaining and understanding historical and especially current problems in world politics. It will explore, among other issues, the causes of war and peace, the limited use of force, humanitarian intervention, nuclear proliferation, nationalist conflict, international ethics, the politics of international trade and finance, foreign aid, globalization, the prospects for environmental cooperation and human rights norms, migration, terrorism, and the future of world politics. By the end of the course, students should be familiar with all these issues and others, should have developed their own views on these much-debated questions, and should be able to apply basic analytical frameworks to answer them.
Grading:
25% Midterm Exam
40% Final Exam
20% Essay, Quizzes
15% Class Participation
Exam Format:
Identifications; short paragraphs; essays; reading quizzes
Class Format:
80% Lecture
20% Discussion
Workload:
50-75 Pages Reading Per Week
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/19046/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
27 October 2015

Fall 2021  |  POL 1026 Section 001: U.S. Foreign Policy (22417)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 09:45AM - 11:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Nicholson Hall 155
Enrollment Status:
Open (85 of 116 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
The United States is the most powerful country in the world. This makes the question of what the role in the U.S. is in the world and how the United States interacts with other countries, international organizations, and other actors in international politics a question of real importance. US foreign policy will play a crucial role in determining the world we live in four, ten, and fifty years time. As a result, we should all try to better understand how the United States behaves in international politics, why it behaves in that way, how it should behave, and how it has behaved in the past. These are the questions that this class tackles. For example, we'll ask: why does the United States play such an active role in world politics? Might this change in the future and how has US foreign policy varied in the past? What do past conflicts in which the United States has been involved tell us about current U.S. foreign policy? Why is the United States so often at war despite being so militarily secure? Does the rise of China pose a threat to the United States and if so, what should the United States do about it? How serious is the threat of cyber war? Why does the United States care so much about stopping other countries from getting nuclear weapons?
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?msbell+POL1026+Fall2021
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22417/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 1054 Section 001: Politics Around the World (19032)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
4 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 01:00PM - 02:15PM
UMTC, West Bank
Anderson Hall 350
Enrollment Status:
Open (84 of 85 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
This course is an introduction to the study of politics in different countries around the world. It focuses on domestic politics within countries, as opposed to a course in international relations, which focuses on relations between countries. Some of the questions we tackle include: Why are some countries prone to violent conflict while others remain peaceful? Why do some countries grow rich while others remain poor? Why does democracy emerge in some countries, while dictators hold onto power elsewhere? How do attitudes about gender and sexuality influence politics? Do particular religions, or the strength of religious faith, strengthen or weaken democracy? The readings and assignments help you make sense of the complexity of world politics - to sift through and distill the avalanche of information available and learn how to develop your own arguments about pertinent global issues. Upon completion of this course you will be able to understand and provide examples of 1) the difference between strong and weak states; 2) the distinctions between democratic and non-democratic forms of government; 3) the various ways democracies are governed; 4) arguments explaining the origin of democracy and the persistence of non-democracy; 5) the significance of different forms of political identity such as ethnicity, religion, and gender; 6) why some countries are rich while others remain poor; and 7) why some countries tax and spend more than others. Assignments seek to develop your skills at developing arguments through logic and evidence and to give you the ability to distinguish between a persuasive argument about politics and simply stating an opinion.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?dsamuels+POL1054+Fall2021
Class Description:
This course provides an introduction to the study of politics in different countries around the world. We seek to understand how people establish a durable and legitimate political system, and how they seek to benefit from, transform or even overthrow that system. Over the course of the semester we will explore the following questions: 1) How and why do societies establish political order? 2) What is democracy and how is it different from dictatorship? 3) What factors cause democracy to emerge? 4) What are the different kinds of dictatorships? 5) When, where and why does ethnicity impact politics? 6) What is nationalism? 7) How does religion drive conflict in the contemporary world? 8) What is the impact of women in politics around the world? 9) What causes civil wars? 10) Why are some countries rich and some poor? 11) Why do some countries tax and spend quite a lot, while others have lower tax rates and lower levels of redistribution?
Who Should Take This Class?:
Anyone interested in global politics
Exam Format:
30% Reports/Papers
50% Written Homework
20% Class Participation Other Grading Information: There is one five-page paper, and up to 10 short assignments. A draft of the 5-page paper is required; students will receive feedback before turning in the final version.
Class Format:
60% Lecture
25% Discussion
15% Small Group Activities
Workload:
100 Pages Reading Per Week
15 Pages Writing Per Term
1 Paper(s)
10 Homework Assignment(s)
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/19032/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
27 March 2017

Fall 2021  |  POL 1201 Section 001: Political Ideas (19008)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 11:15AM - 12:30PM
UMTC, West Bank
Anderson Hall 270
Enrollment Status:
Open (146 of 149 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
This course serves as an introduction to the study of political theory. Political theory analyzes the meaning and significance of fundamental concepts in politics. Starting from such basic concerns as the nature of politics, humans, power and justice, political theorists explore how these basic starting assumptions organize the norms, practices, and institutions of political and social order. To explore these topics, the field turns to key texts, as well as to political and social events and other media (film, historical documents, etc.). In this introductory course, students will investigate some of the basic texts in political theory, with the goal of learning how to read texts more analytically and to address fundamental questions in political theory. Among the topics that might be the nature of justice and injustice, political obligation and civil disobedience, democracy and other forms of governance. Students who complete this course will understand the deep issues about the nature of politics, will have learned to read and to analyze complex texts. They will also have had the opportunity to reflect upon their own ethical engagement in political life and upon the ways in which historically, political ideas change.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?POL1201+Fall2021
Class Description:
What does it mean to be free? What is the proper relationship between the individual and the community? What is power and how should it be limited? How we answer these questions matters for how we think about politics and how we live our lives. This course offers students an introduction to three branches of political thought that have each sought to provide coherent answers to these questions. They are Republicanism, Liberalism, and Socialism, and though they do not exhaust the wide spectrum of political thought, each has appeared and reappeared over the course of Western history as various thinkers have grappled with questions of freedom, duty, and power. In this course we will consider a few of the most important formulations of these three "isms" in the writings of figures such as Plato, Aristotle, Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Karl Marx. Each of these thinkers is important not just because each produced excellent works of political theory, but also because their works have come to form part of the vocabulary of modern political discourse, both inside and outside of academic settings, making an understanding of their writings necessary for any understanding of contemporary politics.
Exam Format:
60% Reports/Papers
30% Reflection Papers
10% Class Participation
Class Format:
50% Lecture
40% Discussion
10% Small Group Activities
Workload:
50 Pages Reading Per Week
12-15 Pages Writing Per Term
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/19008/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
9 January 2017

Fall 2021  |  POL 1911 Section 001: Dictatorship and Violence in Central Asia and Afghanistan (34964)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Discussion
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
A-F only
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Freshman Seminar
Enrollment Requirements:
Freshman and FRFY
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 09:45AM - 11:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 215
Enrollment Status:
Open (17 of 19 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
This course is an introduction to Central Asia, a region of the world that has layers of history, culture, and politics, that extend back to the time of Alexander the Great's conquest, Islamicization by the Arabs, Tamerlane's empire, and the Great Game of the 19th century. Our focus will mainly be on the twentieth century to the present, a period of invasion and control by the Soviet Union, then independence and a 30 year struggle to establish independent states and new forms of political power. Otherwise known as the "stans" (the land of) - this region includes the land of the Kyrgyz, Kazakhs, Uzbeks, Turkmen, Tajiks, and Afghans. We will also discuss Azerbaijan, a Turkic post-Soviet republic in the Caucasus that is a neighbor to the Central Asian region. We will focus on the role of ethnic, religious, and national identities in Soviet and post-Soviet politics. We will explore their history, and especially the legacy of communism for the present day. We will particularly address the problems of the post-Soviet era, including political transition to new regimes, the struggle by some for democracy, human rights issues, the challenges of economic reform, environmental catastrophes, ethnic conflict, civil war, and the growth of radical Islamist movements. We will consider US policy in the region, and how it has positively or negatively affected political developments.
Class Description:
This course is an introduction to Central Asia, a region of the world that has layers of history, culture, and politics, that extend back to the time of Alexander the Great's conquest, Islamicization by the Arabs, Tamerlane's empire, and the Great Game of the 19th century. Our focus will mainly be on the twentieth century to the present, a period of invasion and control by the Soviet Union, then independence and a 30 year struggle to establish independent states and new forms of political power.

Otherwise known as the "stans" (the land of) - this region includes the land of the Kyrgyz, Kazakhs, Uzbeks, Turkmen, Tajiks, and Afghans. We will also discuss Azerbaijan, a Turkic post-Soviet republic in the Caucasus that is a neighbor to the Central Asian region. We will focus on the role of ethnic, religious, and national identities in Soviet and post-Soviet politics. We will explore their history, and especially the legacy of communism for the present day. We will particularly address the problems of the post-Soviet era, including political transition to new regimes, the struggle by some for democracy, human rights issues, the challenges of economic reform, environmental catastrophes, ethnic conflict, civil war, and the growth of radical Islamist movements. We will consider US policy in the region, and how it has positively or negatively affected political developments.

Who Should Take This Class?:
Freshmen
Learning Objectives:
Learn the modern history and politics of Central Asia, and related policy issues (how to democratize? how to target foreign aid? how to address radical Islamism?). Learn to write a research paper.
Grading:
A-F
Exam Format:
papers only
Class Format:
lecture and discussion
Workload:
about 75 pages reading per week; two short papers and a research paper
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/34964/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
31 March 2020

Fall 2021  |  POL 3080 Section 001: Internship in Politics or Government (19007)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Field Work
Credits:
3-13 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
15 Credits
Grading Basis:
A-F only
Instructor Consent:
Department Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
12:00AM - 12:00AM
Off Campus
Enrollment Status:
Open (23 of 50 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Students search for and arrange an internship with an organization or office working in government or politics, and then complete academic coursework in association with their internship. prereq: instr consent, dept consent
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?psoper+POL3080+Fall2021
Class Description:
This course has two purposes. The first is to provide students with an opportunity to acquire first-hand political experience and knowledge. The second is to enable students to situate their internship experience in the context of relevant political science research on the subject matter. Students earn 1 credit for every 3 hours per week worked at the internship. Students must work at least 10 hours per week (or 140 total hours), and take POL 3080 for at least 3 credits. To enroll in POL 3080, students must meet with the instructor to discuss the course requirements, sign a Student/Faculty contract that specifies the required coursework, and get a permission number. This meeting takes 15-20 minutes, and should be scheduled once you have secured your internship and you know how many hours per week you will be working (so that you will know how many credits you can take). These meetings usually take place once enrollment for the next semester is open. NOTE: you MUST sign up for the course by the end of the first week of classes for the semester in which you are doing the internship. All students must submit weekly analytical journal entries, and two informational interview reports. At higher credits levels, students must complete a 5-7p essay and 10p research paper.
Who Should Take This Class?:
Any UofM undergraduate student in any College or School who wants to learn more about politics, policy making, policy implementation, the legal system, or community service
Learning Objectives:
To gain hands-on practical experience in politics, government, law, or community service work, and to reflect on that experience via political science research.
Grading:
Political Science majors and minors MUST take 3080 A-F; non-majors/minors may take 3080 S/N, but A-F is recommended for all students.
Exam Format:
90% Reports/Papers
10% Other Evaluation Other Grading Information: Grade based 90% on coursework, 10% on internship supervisor's evaluation.
Class Format:
100% Web Based Students work at their internships, and submit their course work by e-mail. There are no required classroom meetings.
Workload:
30-50 Pages Reading Per Week
20-50 Pages Writing Per Term Other Workload: Workload varies by number of credits taken. Minimum 14 weekly journal entries, 2 informational interview reports. Additional papers at higher credit levels
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/19007/1219
Past Syllabi:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/psoper_POL3080_Fall2017.doc (Fall 2017)
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/psoper_POL3080_Summer2017.doc (Summer 2017)
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/psoper_POL3080_Spring2016.doc (Spring 2016)
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
23 February 2017

Fall 2021  |  POL 3085 Section 001: Quantitative Analysis in Political Science (22842)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 08:15AM - 09:30AM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 5
Enrollment Status:
Closed (61 of 60 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
POL 3085 teaches students how to study politics scientifically and introduces them to how to use quantitative analysis to answer political questions. The first part of the class covers how to formulate a theory (a possible answer to a question), specify testable hypotheses (what you would see if the theory is correct or incorrect), and set up a research design to test those hypotheses. In the second part of the class, we cover quantitative data analysis, beginning from preliminary statistical analysis to multivariate linear regression. There is no mathematical or statistical background required for this course. By the end of the class, students should be able to ask and answer political questions using quantitative data and fluently evaluate statistical analyses of political phenomena in the media and many academic articles.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?jlsumner+POL3085+Fall2021
Class Description:
While the POL 3085 lecture focuses on teaching students research design, statistics, and the statistical software program R, the lab is dedicated strictly to teaching and reinforcing understanding of the statistical software. No computer science background or previous programming experience is necessary. We will teach you all you need to know.
Who Should Take This Class?:
This class is ideal for anyone interested in conducting quantitative research or evaluating quantitative research (note: 'reading the news' qualifies). It does not require you to be a "math person"* (* there is no such thing as a "math person") -- all mathematical backgrounds and perceived ability levels can thrive in this class.
Learning Objectives:
The lab section is solely dedicated to understanding the statistical software program R. Learning statistical software is good for several reasons: not only does it give you practical tools for manipulating and analyzing data and making cool graphics, but it also teaches you algorithmic thinking, which is a good skill set for life.
Grading:

Grades are based on points.


For Fall 2020, all work will be group-based. This serves a few purposes. First, collaborating in research projects is increasingly common in political science as a field, in large part because it allows people to bring their different strengths to the table to create a better end product than one person could alone. Second, it means no one necessarily needs to be operating at 100% effort all the time. This is a nice feature usually -- since life happens! -- but especially with the uncertainty of COVID-19, working in teams means that if anyone gets sick or has caretaker responsibilities, the person can take some time to take care of themselves while the team continues.


Each team will produce a final research project. Homework will also be team-based, and team members will have the opportunity to explain who did what part of the assignment. Students will take frequent quizzes to evaluate their own individual knowledge.


Assessment:

Grading for this class will be based on six items:

1. Lecture quizzes. There will be five (5) quizzes throughout the semester. The dates the quizzes will be assigned are posted on the syllabus. You can take each quiz as many times as you want and only your highest grade is recorded. You must complete each quiz within one week of its assignment date. Quizzes are not timed and are all administered on Google Forms, with a link to the quiz on Canvas. Each quiz is worth 15 points.

2. Lab quizzes. There will be a quiz assigned at the end of every lab section to assess your knowledge of R. You can take each quiz as many times as you want and only your highest grade is recorded. You must complete each quiz within one week of its assignment date. Quizzes are not timed and are all administered on Google Forms, with a link to the quiz on Canvas. Each lab quiz is worth 5 points.

3. Paper chunks. Your co-author group will have to complete and submit eight ``paper chunks'' throughout the semester. Each chunk is a draft of a section of your final paper. I emphasize that these are drafts -- they are not expected to be perfect, and should reflect your best effort at completing the task at the time that it is assigned. Each paper chunk is worth fifteen points.

4. Check-Ins. Co-author teams are required to send at least one person (and preferably more) to meet with me during office hours to check in at least six times per semester (at least once every 2-3 weeks). These check-ins are worth five points each.

5. Final presentation. Near the end of the semester, your group will present your project to the class and to the ``public'', both to practice communicating about research and to get feedback for your final paper. More detailed information about these presentations will be provided later on. The final presentation is worth 50 points.

6. Final paper. For your final paper, you will edit those paper chunks with the feedback I have given you, and you will incorporate them into a paper, which you will turn in as your final project. Although final papers can seem intimidating, remember that you will be be working on this paper bit by bit throughout the semester. Ideally, by the end of the semester, all you need to do is copy and paste and edit. The final paper is worth 50 points.

Exam Format:
Enter information here.
Class Format:
Most weeks student will be expected to watch a lecture video before lab. The class period will be dedicated to going through specific activities related to that content and answering student questions.
Workload:
Weekly attendance and weekly pass/fail quizzes.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22842/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
25 March 2021

Fall 2021  |  POL 3085 Section 002: Quantitative Analysis in Political Science (22843)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Discussion
Credits:
4 Credits
Grading Basis:
A-F or Audit
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Thu 10:10AM - 11:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Carlson School of Management L-114
Enrollment Status:
Closed (31 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
POL 3085 teaches students how to study politics scientifically and introduces them to how to use quantitative analysis to answer political questions. The first part of the class covers how to formulate a theory (a possible answer to a question), specify testable hypotheses (what you would see if the theory is correct or incorrect), and set up a research design to test those hypotheses. In the second part of the class, we cover quantitative data analysis, beginning from preliminary statistical analysis to multivariate linear regression. There is no mathematical or statistical background required for this course. By the end of the class, students should be able to ask and answer political questions using quantitative data and fluently evaluate statistical analyses of political phenomena in the media and many academic articles.
Class Description:
While the POL 3085 lecture focuses on teaching students research design, statistics, and the statistical software program R, the lab is dedicated strictly to teaching and reinforcing understanding of the statistical software. No computer science background or previous programming experience is necessary. We will teach you all you need to know.
Who Should Take This Class?:
This class is ideal for anyone interested in conducting quantitative research or evaluating quantitative research (note: 'reading the news' qualifies). It does not require you to be a "math person"* (* there is no such thing as a "math person") -- all mathematical backgrounds and perceived ability levels can thrive in this class.
Learning Objectives:
The lab section is solely dedicated to understanding the statistical software program R. Learning statistical software is good for several reasons: not only does it give you practical tools for manipulating and analyzing data and making cool graphics, but it also teaches you algorithmic thinking, which is a good skill set for life.
Grading:

Grades are based on points.


For Fall 2020, all work will be group-based. This serves a few purposes. First, collaborating in research projects is increasingly common in political science as a field, in large part because it allows people to bring their different strengths to the table to create a better end product than one person could alone. Second, it means no one necessarily needs to be operating at 100% effort all the time. This is a nice feature usually -- since life happens! -- but especially with the uncertainty of COVID-19, working in teams means that if anyone gets sick or has caretaker responsibilities, the person can take some time to take care of themselves while the team continues.


Each team will produce a final research project. Homework will also be team-based, and team members will have the opportunity to explain who did what part of the assignment. Students will take frequent quizzes to evaluate their own individual knowledge.


Assessment:

Grading for this class will be based on six items:

1. Lecture quizzes. There will be five (5) quizzes throughout the semester. The dates the quizzes will be assigned are posted on the syllabus. You can take each quiz as many times as you want and only your highest grade is recorded. You must complete each quiz within one week of its assignment date. Quizzes are not timed and are all administered on Google Forms, with a link to the quiz on Canvas. Each quiz is worth 15 points.

2. Lab quizzes. There will be a quiz assigned at the end of every lab section to assess your knowledge of R. You can take each quiz as many times as you want and only your highest grade is recorded. You must complete each quiz within one week of its assignment date. Quizzes are not timed and are all administered on Google Forms, with a link to the quiz on Canvas. Each lab quiz is worth 5 points.

3. Paper chunks. Your co-author group will have to complete and submit eight ``paper chunks'' throughout the semester. Each chunk is a draft of a section of your final paper. I emphasize that these are drafts -- they are not expected to be perfect, and should reflect your best effort at completing the task at the time that it is assigned. Each paper chunk is worth fifteen points.

4. Check-Ins. Co-author teams are required to send at least one person (and preferably more) to meet with me during office hours to check in at least six times per semester (at least once every 2-3 weeks). These check-ins are worth five points each.

5. Final presentation. Near the end of the semester, your group will present your project to the class and to the ``public'', both to practice communicating about research and to get feedback for your final paper. More detailed information about these presentations will be provided later on. The final presentation is worth 50 points.

6. Final paper. For your final paper, you will edit those paper chunks with the feedback I have given you, and you will incorporate them into a paper, which you will turn in as your final project. Although final papers can seem intimidating, remember that you will be be working on this paper bit by bit throughout the semester. Ideally, by the end of the semester, all you need to do is copy and paste and edit. The final paper is worth 50 points.

Exam Format:
Enter information here.
Class Format:
Most weeks student will be expected to watch a lecture video before lab. The class period will be dedicated to going through specific activities related to that content and answering student questions.
Workload:
Weekly attendance and weekly pass/fail quizzes.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22843/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
25 March 2021

Fall 2021  |  POL 3085 Section 003: Quantitative Analysis in Political Science (22844)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Discussion
Credits:
4 Credits
Grading Basis:
A-F or Audit
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Thu 11:15AM - 12:05PM
UMTC, West Bank
Carlson School of Management L-114
Enrollment Status:
Closed (30 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
POL 3085 teaches students how to study politics scientifically and introduces them to how to use quantitative analysis to answer political questions. The first part of the class covers how to formulate a theory (a possible answer to a question), specify testable hypotheses (what you would see if the theory is correct or incorrect), and set up a research design to test those hypotheses. In the second part of the class, we cover quantitative data analysis, beginning from preliminary statistical analysis to multivariate linear regression. There is no mathematical or statistical background required for this course. By the end of the class, students should be able to ask and answer political questions using quantitative data and fluently evaluate statistical analyses of political phenomena in the media and many academic articles.
Class Description:
While the POL 3085 lecture focuses on teaching students research design, statistics, and the statistical software program R, the lab is dedicated strictly to teaching and reinforcing understanding of the statistical software. No computer science background or previous programming experience is necessary. We will teach you all you need to know.
Who Should Take This Class?:
This class is ideal for anyone interested in conducting quantitative research or evaluating quantitative research (note: 'reading the news' qualifies). It does not require you to be a "math person"* (* there is no such thing as a "math person") -- all mathematical backgrounds and perceived ability levels can thrive in this class.
Learning Objectives:
The lab section is solely dedicated to understanding the statistical software program R. Learning statistical software is good for several reasons: not only does it give you practical tools for manipulating and analyzing data and making cool graphics, but it also teaches you algorithmic thinking, which is a good skill set for life.
Grading:

Grades are based on points.


For Fall 2020, all work will be group-based. This serves a few purposes. First, collaborating in research projects is increasingly common in political science as a field, in large part because it allows people to bring their different strengths to the table to create a better end product than one person could alone. Second, it means no one necessarily needs to be operating at 100% effort all the time. This is a nice feature usually -- since life happens! -- but especially with the uncertainty of COVID-19, working in teams means that if anyone gets sick or has caretaker responsibilities, the person can take some time to take care of themselves while the team continues.


Each team will produce a final research project. Homework will also be team-based, and team members will have the opportunity to explain who did what part of the assignment. Students will take frequent quizzes to evaluate their own individual knowledge.


Assessment:

Grading for this class will be based on six items:

1. Lecture quizzes. There will be five (5) quizzes throughout the semester. The dates the quizzes will be assigned are posted on the syllabus. You can take each quiz as many times as you want and only your highest grade is recorded. You must complete each quiz within one week of its assignment date. Quizzes are not timed and are all administered on Google Forms, with a link to the quiz on Canvas. Each quiz is worth 15 points.

2. Lab quizzes. There will be a quiz assigned at the end of every lab section to assess your knowledge of R. You can take each quiz as many times as you want and only your highest grade is recorded. You must complete each quiz within one week of its assignment date. Quizzes are not timed and are all administered on Google Forms, with a link to the quiz on Canvas. Each lab quiz is worth 5 points.

3. Paper chunks. Your co-author group will have to complete and submit eight ``paper chunks'' throughout the semester. Each chunk is a draft of a section of your final paper. I emphasize that these are drafts -- they are not expected to be perfect, and should reflect your best effort at completing the task at the time that it is assigned. Each paper chunk is worth fifteen points.

4. Check-Ins. Co-author teams are required to send at least one person (and preferably more) to meet with me during office hours to check in at least six times per semester (at least once every 2-3 weeks). These check-ins are worth five points each.

5. Final presentation. Near the end of the semester, your group will present your project to the class and to the ``public'', both to practice communicating about research and to get feedback for your final paper. More detailed information about these presentations will be provided later on. The final presentation is worth 50 points.

6. Final paper. For your final paper, you will edit those paper chunks with the feedback I have given you, and you will incorporate them into a paper, which you will turn in as your final project. Although final papers can seem intimidating, remember that you will be be working on this paper bit by bit throughout the semester. Ideally, by the end of the semester, all you need to do is copy and paste and edit. The final paper is worth 50 points.

Exam Format:
Enter information here.
Class Format:
Most weeks student will be expected to watch a lecture video before lab. The class period will be dedicated to going through specific activities related to that content and answering student questions.
Workload:
Weekly attendance and weekly pass/fail quizzes.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22844/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
25 March 2021

Fall 2021  |  POL 3225 Section 001: American Political Thought (21303)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 02:30PM - 03:45PM
UMTC, West Bank
Anderson Hall 330
Enrollment Status:
Open (82 of 85 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
This course provides an introduction to several key periods and some of the leading concepts and debates in American political thought. It might also focus on a broader theme such as: conceptions of destiny, mission, and exceptionalism; arguments over economic development and inequality; or debates over government and corporate power. The course will begin with Puritan religious and political thought, tracing its secularization over time. Considerable attention will be paid to the ideas behind the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, such as the social contract and the right of resistance to civil authority, civic republicanism, and the founders' new science of politics and government. The course will consider some if not all of the following: debates over slavery and emancipation, women's rights, the rise of imperialism and nationalism, race and racism, and the rise of rule by public and private bureaucratic organizations, and the consequences of these developments for the possibility of continued individual liberty, equality, and justice. This course requires considerable reading of difficult texts. The ultimate goal of this course is for students to gain a deeper understanding of American political thought as a product of the country's ever-evolving political discourse. prereq: Suggested prerequisite POL 1201
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?psoper+POL3225+Fall2021
Class Description:
In this course we will examine classic texts in the history of American political thought in order to understand how Americans have theorized about and argued over their political system, and to consider how we can draw upon these texts to address contemporary American political problems. Some of the questions we will address: What political and moral obligations do citizens have to the state, and to each other? What is the basis of legitimate state authority? What is the social contract, and how have Americans used social contract theory to legitimate their governments? What is the right of resistance, and when is it acceptable for individuals or a people to resist or rebel against their government? Does the Declaration of Independence merely list the reasons for separating from Great Britain, or is it also a founding document establishing American principles of liberty and equality? How does the Constitution limit (or fail to limit) the power of the state, and protect (or fail to protect) individual and corporate rights? Is class conflict over the distribution of wealth in society a recent development or a long-standing feature of American political discourse? How have religious texts and ideas been used as a basis for political argument? How relevant to our century and our political problems are the ideas of 50, 100, 150, 200, or more years ago? What, if anything, can we still learn and use from these past ideas and theories? How might they help us, or lead us astray, in addressing our own problems today? Prominent theorists covered include Winthrop, Franklin, Paine, Jefferson, Adams, Madison, Hamilton, the Anti-Federalist "Brutus," Thoreau, Calhoun, Douglass, Lincoln, Sumner.
Who Should Take This Class?:
Any student interested in political theory, philosophy, American history, American politics, textual interpretation and analysis, or the roles of ideas, race, gender, and religion in politics.
Learning Objectives:
To understand significant texts in history of American political thought, both in relation to their original historical context and in terms of how they still resonate with our political concerns and problems today; to understand how Americans have thought about and argued over politics from the colonial period through the present; to cultivate students' analytical reasoning.
Exam Format:
80% Reports/Papers
20% Quizzes
Class Format:
80% Lecture
20% Discussion
Workload:
150 Pages Reading Per Week
30 Pages Writing Per Term
3 Paper(s)
2 Quiz(zes)
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/21303/1219
Past Syllabi:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/psoper_POL3225_Fall2017.doc (Fall 2017)
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
23 February 2017

Fall 2021  |  POL 3235W Section 001: Democracy and Citizenship (22418)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 04:00PM - 05:15PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 235
Enrollment Status:
Open (55 of 58 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
This course considers the nature of contemporary democracy and the role that members of the political community do, can, and should play. While approaches in teaching the class vary, students can expect to read historical and contemporary texts, see films and videos, to approach questions about the nature of democracy, justifications for democracy, and challenges faced by contemporary democracy. Topics will include such questions as the role of civil society in democratic life, deliberative democracy, as well as questions about how members of political communities can best participate in democratic life. Students will write a longer essay that allows them to demonstrate their capacities to understand and explain complex ideas and to make a theoretically compelling argument, using appropriate supporting evidence. prereq: Suggested prerequisite 1201
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?a-bose+POL3235W+Fall2021
Class Description:

Democracy seems to be an intuitively simple concept to many Americans. Americans know what democracy, and the corresponding values of freedom and equality mean because they live under a democratic system of government that guarantees liberty and justice for all, and equality regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, or sex. Likewise, Americans know that being a citizen means we have certain rights. (and duties?) When we delve a little deeper into what these concepts mean, however, we discover that this apparent certainty papers over a host of disagreements, divisions, and uncertainties. These complexities have bubbled up to the surface today, as they have historically, through a number of contemporary concerns espoused by the Occupy Movement, the Tea Party Movement, Black Lives Matter, anti-establishment politics, etc.


This class helps students to engage in the contemporary problems of democracy by grounding the conversation in the historical debates of democratic theory. Rather than suggesting any simple answers, our class will instead pose questions with which we, together, must wrestle. What is the democracy? How should we understand basic concepts of democracy like freedom, equality, and solidarity? How should we respond when these concepts come into conflict? Is capitalism inherently in conflict with democracy? Working through these questions, we will tack back and forth between theoretical debates and contemporary and historical political problems, gaining a more nuanced understanding of the political stakes behind these questions, as well as a more critical perspective from which to understand the political challenges of this moment in history.

Who Should Take This Class?:
Any student is welcome to take this course, whether a political science major or not. The questions we deal with are issues affecting all students, and we will work to connect contemporary issues with theoretical and historical texts in a way that is both rigorous enough to engage majors while being accessible to those without a background in political science.
Grading:

Attendance: 10%

Paper 1: 35%

Paper 2: 35%

Final Presentation: 20%

Workload:
approximatley 40 pages of reading per class
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22418/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
20 March 2017

Fall 2021  |  POL 3252W Section 001: Revolution, Democracy, and Empire: Modern Political Thought (22845)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 02:30PM - 03:45PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 235
Enrollment Status:
Open (55 of 58 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
From the seventeenth through the nineteenth centuries, Europe and its colonies were wracked by large scale, sweeping changes: from the violent emergence of the sovereign state, to intense religious conflict, to geographic expansions at once transformative and brutal in search of new economic markets. These changes posed extraordinary challenges to usual ways of conceiving of political order and governance. Our course this semester will read these changes through three key concepts - revolution, democracy, and empire. Class discussion will seek to understand different meanings of these concepts, their political stakes, and ways of knowing how to move between political ideals and historical examples. Students will read a range of materials - from primary historical sources, to philosophic texts, political pamphlets and treatises, and travel journals - so as to study the effects on both the European context and beyond. prereq: Suggested prerequisite 1201
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?luxon+POL3252W+Fall2021
Class Description:
(Formerly POL 3252 Early Modern Political Thought. Students who previously enrolled in POL 3252 may not re-enroll in this course.) From the 16th through the 19th centuries, Europe and its colonies were wracked by large scale, sweeping changes: from the violent emergence of the sovereign state, to intense religious conflict, to transformative expansions into new economic markets. These changes posed extraordinary challenges to usual methods of conceiving of political order and governance. Our course this semester will read these changes through three key concepts: revolution, democracy, and empire. We will read primary historical sources, political pamphlets and treatises, and travel journals so as to study the effects on both the European context and beyond.
Grading:
45% Reports/Papers
40% Reflection Papers
15% Other Evaluation Other Grading Information: Across the semester, students will also participate in "pop" in-class writing exercises.
Exam Format:
Take-home final examination.
Class Format:
70% Lecture
30% Discussion
Workload:
50-75 Pages Reading Per Week
20 Pages Writing Per Term
5 Paper(s)
Other Workload: 2 papers are 5-7 page "analytic" papers; 4 papers are 2 page "micro" papers
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22845/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
4 April 2013

Fall 2021  |  POL 3306 Section 001: Presidential Leadership and American Democracy (34997)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 11:15AM - 12:30PM
UMTC, West Bank
Anderson Hall 230
Enrollment Status:
Open (84 of 85 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
To most Americans - if not most human beings - the President of the United States is probably the most powerful person on the planet. This course examines how, why, and whether that is the case. What does the US President do, and why? Why is so much power entrusted to just one person? Students will critically analyze these questions and synthesize answers by evaluating the history, evolution, and current state of the "highest office in the land."
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/34997/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 3308 Section 001: Congressional Politics and Institutions (22419)

Instructor(s)
Adam L (TA)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 04:00PM - 05:15PM
UMTC, West Bank
Anderson Hall 330
Enrollment Status:
Open (81 of 85 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
This course is an introduction to the politics of the U.S. Congress and the federal legislative process. Throughout the semester, we will focus on the behavior of individual legislators and the role that they play in crafting federal legislation in policy areas such as healthcare, civil rights and the environment. We will devote special attention to changes in Congress, as well as current political and scholarly controversies such as congressional confirmation process of Supreme Court justices, congressional war powers, the influence of parties, and campaign finance. The theme of the course is why do legislators behave as they do and who interests do they represent.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?mdminta+POL3308+Fall2021
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22419/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 3310 Section 002: Topics in American Politics -- Why So Polarized? Understanding the Other Side (35044)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
15 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Topics Course
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Fri 02:30PM - 03:45PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 140
Enrollment Status:
Open (32 of 35 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Topic in American politics, as specified in Class Schedule.
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/35044/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 3310H Section 001: Topics in American Politics -- Women in the US Congress (35240)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
A-F only
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Honors
Topics Course
Enrollment Requirements:
honors student
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 11:15AM - 12:30PM
UMTC, West Bank
Hubert H Humphrey Center 30
Enrollment Status:
Open (13 of 25 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Topics in American politics.
Class Description:

This honors course examines gender dynamics in the U.S. Congress and the ways in which congresswomen affect representation and policy making, along with the factors that enhance and constrain women's election to Congress and women's influence and legislative effectiveness in Congress. We focus on gender dynamics in congressional elections, representation, the legislative process, and the pursuit of power inside Congress. We explore political science research about women in legislative politics from a range of theoretical and methodological approaches. Throughout this course, we will analyze the ways in which sex and gender-based issues and discrimination intersect with other politically relevant categories, identities, and forms of marginalization, such as race, class, and ideological and partisan identification.

One hundred seventeen women serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and 24 women serve in the U.S. Senate. Although the number of congresswomen has increased during the last two decades - only 25 women served in the U.S. Congress thirty years ago - women remain dramatically underrepresented. We begin the course by uncovering the sources of women's underrepresentation by studying gender differences in candidate emergence and congressional elections. Next, we ask whether congresswomen and congressmen advocate different policy agendas and issue positions. We consider the representational implications of the gender differences we uncover, including substantive policy differences and non-policy benefits that are conferred to citizens when women occupy positions of political power. We analyze the institutional features of Congress, asking how congressional parties, committee, and rules may help and hinder congresswomen pursuing power and policy.
Learning Objectives:

The major goal of this class is for you to understand how gender shapes, and is shaped by, legislative politics. The course is divided into six sections: (1) Introduction and Theoretical Perspectives; (2) Underrepresentation in Congress; (3) Congressional Elections; (4) Representation; Parties in Congress; (5) Committees and Caucuses in Congress; and (6) Legislative Effectiveness and Policymaking. By the end of the semester, you should be able to:

· Understand basic theories about sex and gender and how they intersect with other identities as they apply to legislative politics;

· Articulate how sex/gender matters to several aspects of legislative politics, parties, committees, legislative politics, relationships with the Executive branch and interest groups, and the policymaking process;

· Master basic empirical facts about sex/gender and the U.S. Congress;

· Better understand political institutions and the policymaking process;

· Collect data about 20 members of Congress, and, along with data collected by classmates that includes all members of Congress, conduct and present original empirical research; and

· Improve your analytic ability.
Grading:

Students will closely track the congressional careers of several members of Congress in three short papers and data collection assignments. Students will write a research paper of at least ten pages that addresses one of the themes of the course using the data that we collect as a class, and students will share their findings with the class in a short presentation near the end of the semester. In addition, there will be a take-home midterm and an in-class midterm. Class sessions will include lecture and discussion. Class participation is an essential component of this course. Students are expected to attend regularly, to read the assigned readings prior to class, and to come to class prepared to discuss the course material. On occasion, I will distribute questions about the readings. Sometimes, you will be asked to respond to the questions while completing the readings. Other times, I will distribute the questions during the class in which we are discussing the readings.

Grades will be determined as follows:

10% Class participation

20% Take-home midterm exam

20% In-class midterm exam

25% 3 short papers and data collection

25% Research paper and presentation
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/35240/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
14 April 2021

Fall 2021  |  POL 3451W Section 001: Politics and Society in the New Europe (35135)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Thu 06:20PM - 08:50PM
UMTC, West Bank
Hanson Hall 1-109
Enrollment Status:
Open (25 of 45 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
The devastation of Europe through two World Wars put the deadly results of ultra-nationalism on full display. To avoid such destruction again, a group of European technocrats and leaders embarked on a mission of incrementally deepening economic and later, social partnerships between an ever-expanding number of European countries. These efforts culminated in the birth of the European Union in the late 20th Century. From its inception, the Union has found obstacles in the forms of a weak institutional structure and authority, deep skepticism of a central European authority, financial crisis, ethnic anxiety, and resurgent nationalism. Yet, the continuation and strengthening of the Union is seen as the antidote to the rise of anti-democratic and authoritarian tendencies on the continent. Some of the key questions that we will engage in are: What are the ideological and historical roots of the European Union? What are the structural flaws of the Union? What are the obstacles to a stronger Union? Is the Union still or even more essential than ever? What are the ways the Union could collapse from within and from the intervention of outside forces?
Class Description:
This course examines the establishment, institutions and functions of the European Union, with an overview of the political processes in European countries and the European Union. Students will examine the history behind the EU's construction, theories of European integration, the EU's institutions and policy competencies, reoccurring problems with democratic representation in the EU, and the EU's political and economic influence over candidate countries via requirements for entry. The class will also discuss the creation of the European Monetary Union and the Euro currency, and challenges it faced during the sovereign debt crisis. Finally, we will address challenges of migration, integration and the rise of nationalist parties across Europe.
Grading:
20% Midterm Exam
20% Final Exam
20% Research Paper
20% Attendance
20% Short Reflection Papers
Workload:
100 Pages Reading Per Week
20-25 Pages Writing Per Term
2 Exam(s)
1 Paper(s)
5 Homework Assignment(s)
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/35135/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
31 May 2016

Fall 2021  |  POL 3464 Section 001: Politics Economic Inequality (33580)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 08:15AM - 09:30AM
UMTC, West Bank
Anderson Hall 270
Enrollment Status:
Open (84 of 85 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Democracy is premised on formal political equality. Yet if economic wealth can be transformed into political influence, then we have good reason to worry about the quality of democracy. In this course students engage the question of the relationship between inequality and democracy in comparative perspective. The course first explores core conceptual and normative issues: how do we measure economic inequality, and why should we care about it? We then turn to the origins of inequality and explanations of its evolution, and then consider political efforts to redress inequalities, starting with the question of why the poor do not soak the rich under democracy ? the ?Robin Hood Paradox.? We then turn to efforts to explain real-world variation in economic redistribution around the world. Finally, we explore consequences of inequality for democracy: the extent to which the rich ?win? over everyone else in terms of policy representation, and the impact of economic inequality on the long-term evolution of democracy itself.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?dsamuels+POL3464+Fall2021
Class Description:
Distributional issues are at the core of the study of politics. This is because while democracy is premised on formal political equality, if wealth and property can shape political power then equal rights do not mean equal influence. This class meets the UMN "Race, Power and Justice in the US" Liberal Education theme by engaging the question of the tension between democracy and economic inequality. What policies increase or decrease inequality? What are the political consequences of rising inequality - in general and particularly for ethnic and racial minorities? The course focuses on the USA but puts American politics in global perspective. To do so, the course explores how dominant socio-economic groups in the US have historically shaped political institutions and attitudes to generate, perpetuate, and defend inequality. We will also explore the extent to which and why white and non-white citizens have bought into the concept
of the "American Dream," undermining efforts to redress social injustice.

Readings are drawn from across the social sciences, and are chosen to highlight the key questions at stake in the study of the tension between inequality and democracy.
Who Should Take This Class?:
Anyone interested in learning how scholars measure inequality and try to understand its political origins and consequences
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this course you will be able to understand and contribute to debates about
1) the tension between democracy and property
2) how social scientists measure inequality
3) why some Americans prioritize liberty over equality and others the reverse
4) the origins and evolution of inequality
5) the different ways countries respond to inequality through taxation and social-welfare spending
6) how structural inequalities of race, ethnicity and gender intersect with growing income and wealth gaps
7) how personal work and family experience shape perceptions of inequality
8) the consequences of inequality for political representation
9) how individuals can take action to support policy remedies for inequality.
Grading:
Grades will be based on 10 short assignments (2 pp each), participation in a group project/class debate, and in-class oral and online written participation
Exam Format:
There is no midterm or final in this class
Class Format:
Lecture, group discussion and activities
Workload:
Reading will *average* about 100 pages per week. Students will also frequently engage with videos and interactive websites
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33580/1219
Past Syllabi:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/syllabi/dsamuels_POL3464_Spring2020.pdf (Spring 2020)
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
10 December 2021

Fall 2021  |  POL 3477 Section 001: Political Economy of Development (33581)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon 06:20PM - 08:50PM
UMTC, West Bank
Hanson Hall 1-106
Enrollment Status:
Open (32 of 35 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
How can the vast disparities of wealth between countries be explained? Why have some countries in the post-colonial world, in particular, those of East Asia, experienced stunning economic growth, while those in other parts have not? We will explore inequality among nations through an engagement with competing explanations from multiple disciplines. Do free markets, the legacies of colonialism, state power, culture, or geography offer the most persuasive account of current patterns of global inequality? The course also examines what we mean by "development" and exposes students to cutting-edge debates in contemporary development studies. By the end of the course, students will have a better understanding of the causes of and possible solutions to global inequality.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?caraway+POL3477+Fall2021
Class Description:
How can the vast disparities of wealth between countries be explained? Why have some countries in the post-colonial world, in particular those of East Asia, experienced stunning economic growth, while those in others parts of the world been stuck in a development rut? This course will explore contending answers to these difficult but important questions. We will do so through discussions of different explanations of development and underdevelopment, examining these issues concretely in several countries, and discussing contemporary "hot topics" such as micro-credit, AIDS, and the resource curse. 3 credits.
Grading:
20% Midterm Exam
20% Final Exam
40% Reports/Papers
20% Class Participation
Exam Format:
The exams will be a combination of essay, multiple choice, and short answer questions. They will focus on topics not covered in the short papers, so collectively the exams and the essays function as four midterms. The final exam is not cumulative.
Class Format:
45% Lecture
15% Film/Video
20% Discussion
20% Small Group Activities
Workload:
80-100 Pages Reading Per Week
2 Exam(s)
2 4-5 page essays
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33581/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
20 March 2017

Fall 2021  |  POL 3479 Section 001: Latin American Politics (33582)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 01:00PM - 02:15PM
UMTC, West Bank
Hubert H Humphrey Center 25
Enrollment Status:
Open (54 of 55 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
This course offers an introduction to the political history and contemporary politics of Latin America, along with some of the main concepts and theories used by social scientists to explain the region's political dynamics. Through a comparative, historical approach, the course aims to help students understand the continued challenges faced by countries in the region-- to the establishment of security, the rule of law and rights protection, to the stability and quality of democracy, and to sustainable and equitable economic growth - and how these interact. The objective of the course is not only to help students understand the similarities and differences in outcomes in Latin America over time, but also to reflect on what the region's experiences can teach us about the requirements of and barriers to meaningful democracy and sustainable and equitable development around the world, including "north of the border." In other words, the course seeks not just to provide students' knowledge about Latin America, but to help them learn from Latin America.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?hilbink+POL3479+Fall2021
Class Description:
This course introduces students to the main contours of political and economic development in Latin America. It aims not only to help students understand the similarities and differences in outcomes in the region over the past several decades, but also to reflect on what Latin America's experiences can teach us about the requirements of and barriers to meaningful democracy and sustainable and equitable development around the world. The course presents key concepts and theories in the study of the region's development and discusses them as they pertain to five main country cases: Argentina, Chile, Guatemala, Mexico, and Venezuela. Readings on other countries are occasionally assigned and students have opportunities to draw on other cases for class assignments.
Grading:
45% Reports/Papers
25% Final Exam
15% Quizzes
15% Class Participation
Exam Format:
Combo of short answer, IDs, and essay
Class Format:
65% Lecture
35% Discussion
Workload:
125 Pages Reading Per Week
10 Pages Writing Per Term
2 Short Paper(s)
1 Report
1 Exam (Final)
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33582/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
9 November 2015

Fall 2021  |  POL 3489W Section 001: Citizens, Consumers, and Corporations (22848)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Wed 06:20PM - 08:50PM
UMTC, West Bank
Hanson Hall 1-107
Enrollment Status:
Open (34 of 45 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Corporations are among the most powerful actors in the global political economy. They employ millions of people, produce a variety of goods, and have massive effects on the ecological and social environments in which they do business. How do ordinary people act in order to hold corporations accountable for the effects that their activities have on communities and individuals? This course focuses on two ways that people have mobilized to counter corporate power--as citizens and as consumers. When people mobilize as citizens, they put pressure on corporations through the political system--e.g. through mass protests, lobbying politicians, and pursuing claims through the courts. When people mobilize as consumers, they use the power of their purchasing decisions to encourage corporations to change their behavior. We will explore these different modes of action through an examination of corporate social responsibility/sweatshops, the industrial food system in the US, and the privatization of life (e.g. genes), water, and war.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?caraway+POL3489W+Fall2021
Class Description:
Corporations are among the most powerful actors in the global political economy. They employ millions of people, produce a variety of goods, and have massive effects on the ecological and social environments in which they do business. How do ordinary people act in order to hold corporations accountable for the effects that their activities have on communities and individuals? This course focuses on two ways that people have mobilized to counter corporate power--as citizens and as consumers. When people mobilize as citizens, they put pressure on corporations through the political system--e.g. through mass protests, lobbying politicians, and pursuing claims through the courts. When people mobilize as consumers, they use the power of their purchasing decisions to encourage corporations to change their behavior. We will explore these different modes of action through an examination of corporate social responsibility/sweatshops, the industrial food system in the US, and the privatization of life (e.g. genes), water, and war.
Grading:
25% Final Exam
50% Reports/Papers
25% Class Participation
Exam Format:
The final exam will be an essay exam.
Class Format:
40% Lecture
15% Film/Video
30% Discussion
15% Small Group Activities
Workload:
80-100 Pages Reading Per Week
1 Final Exam (essay format)
2 short papers (about 9 pages total)
2 Homework Assignment(s)
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22848/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
1 April 2019

Fall 2021  |  POL 3767 Section 001: Political Psychology of Elite Behavior (33583)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 04:00PM - 05:15PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 10
Enrollment Status:
Open (81 of 85 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Why do some world leaders seek cooperation while others advocate war? Why do some Presidents effect major change while others are relegated to the dustbin of history? How does the personality of leaders affect how they behave in office? In this class, we will address questions like these by exploring the psychology of political elites, those members of society who wield outsized influence over political decisions. This outsized influence means that understanding how elites think is particularly important. It is also unusually difficult, leading some to argue that political psychology can play little role in understanding elite decision-making. Students will exit the class having mastered a body of knowledge about elite decision-making and learned about the different approaches that scholars take to study these decisions. They will also gain the critical capacity to judge arguments about politics, the ability to identify, define, and solve problems, and the skill to locate and critically evaluate information relevant to these tasks. Finally, this course takes a cooperative approach to learning, and many course activities will be structured around learning and working with a group of fellow students over the course of the semester. This course fulfills the Civic Life and Ethics theme requirement.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?cdmyers+POL3767+Fall2021
Class Description:
Can political psychology help us understand the behavior of presidents, party leaders and dictators? This course draws on the approaches of social and cognitive psychology to examine and explain the behavior of political leaders and other elites. We will cover judgement and decision making, the effect of personality and other individual differences, group processes, and other topics. In addition to these substantive topics, we will learn about the methods used by political scientists to study political elites.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33583/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
26 May 2015

Fall 2021  |  POL 3769 Section 001: Public Opinion and Voting Behavior (22422)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 09:45AM - 11:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 317
Enrollment Status:
Closed (55 of 55 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Polls are ubiquitous, measuring what Americans think on topics big and small. This course examines the nature, measurement, and consequences of public opinion in the contemporary United States, with a particular emphasis on understanding why some voters preferred Donald Trump to Hillary Clinton - vice versa - in the 2016 presidential election. We'll address the following questions throughout the term. First, how do pollsters measure what the public thinks about government and public affairs? Second, can we assume that the responses people give to survey questions reflect their true thoughts and feelings about politics? Third, what are the major factors that shape voter decision making in U.S. presidential elections? By the end of this semester you will have a broader and deeper understanding of the nature, measurement, meaning, and consequences of public opinion.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?pgoren+POL3769+Fall2021
Class Description:
This course focuses on whether citizens and the broader public make sensible political decisions. We will assess whether ordinary citizens are capable of meeting their responsibilities as democratic citizens. The first part of the course focuses on what public opinion means, how it is measured, and how it changes over time. The second part of the course focuses on how voters decide which presidential candidate to vote for and whether to turn out on election day. Class time will feature lecturing, classroom discussion and debate, viewing political films/video, and evaluating the videos. Note finally that I will provide pdf copies of slides for each lecture a day or two before the materials are formally presented in class.
Grading:
25% Midterm Exam
25% Final Exam
25% Special Projects
15% Attendance
10% Class Participation Other Grading Information: If you do the readings, show up regularly, pay attention in class, and study, you will do well in this course.
Exam Format:
A combination of multiple choice and short answer questions. There will also be extra credit opportunities on the exams.
Class Format:
40% Lecture
20% Film/Video
40% Discussion I will strive for the right mix of lecture and classroom discussion each day. In no case will I lecture for 3 straight hours. I lack sufficient charm to pull that off!
Workload:
50-75 Pages Reading Per Week
3 Exams
2 medium-length writing assignments
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22422/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
23 October 2017

Fall 2021  |  POL 3786 Section 001: Media and Politics (23158)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Meets With:
JOUR 3786 Section 001
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 04:00PM - 05:15PM
UMTC, East Bank
Murphy Hall 130
Enrollment Status:
Closed (35 of 35 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Do facts matter anymore? Is press freedom under threat? Are audiences trapped in filter bubbles? Why do people hate the media, and how can the news be improved to better serve citizens? Explore the historical and contemporary dynamics that shape the relationship between professionals in the media, the mass public, and political actors across different parts of government. Study major forms of mass media, including television and newspapers, alongside new forms such as digital and social media. Look at specific reporting rituals and practices, as well as issues involving media ownership, regulation, ethics, and press freedom. We will study politicians? efforts to craft messages, advertise strategically, and target select audiences for political gain. The course will focus primarily, but not exclusively, on the United States, and you will be asked to engage with current events and the role of communication technologies in political and civic life.
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/23158/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 3810 Section 001: Topics in International Relations and Foreign Policy -- The Laws of War in International Politics (34210)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
6 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Topics Course
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 11:15AM - 12:30PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 150
Enrollment Status:
Open (53 of 55 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Topics courses delve in-depth into important issues in contemporary international politics. They aim to give students the theoretical, conceptual, and historical understanding, and/or empirical tools needed to understand the complexity of international politics today. Topics courses vary substantially from year to year as specified in the class schedule, but recent topics courses have included: 'Technology and War', International Law', 'Drones, Detention and Torture: The Laws of War', and 'The Consequences of War.'
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?kins0017+POL3810+Fall2021
Class Description:

Methods of War: Night Raids, Detention, Torture and Drones

"The more vigorously wars are pursued the better it is for humanity. Sharp wars are brief." (Art. 29, The Lieber Code)

In this class, we will be examining the use of particular tactics of war - night raids, detention, torture and drones - as deployed, primarily but only, in the US-led war on terror. The purpose of this class is to grapple with the fundamental questions such tactics raise about what is right in war, and the costs and consequences of such tactics on both those who choose and use them, and those that are targeted by them.

Course Objectives: Since these are perennial questions - what is right in war and why - there is no wholly universal agreement as to the proper answers. Accordingly, we should not imagine that we can or will reach consensus. We too will encounter great debate and disagreement as we sort through our own answers, or even decide whether these are the proper questions to be asked.

In this class, students will be introduced to the specific tenets of the laws of war, primarily as codified in the 1949 Geneva Conventions and their 1977 Additional Protocols, which govern these tactics. Students will also become familiar with the broad contours of the war on terror, which include but are not limited to the ground wars in Afghanistan, in order to think more practically about the questions these tactics raise. We will also engage with specific questions of practice - e.g., who can be targeted by a drone and why - and shall be doing so even as these practices of war continue.

Thus, to best facilitate our exploration and discussion, I expect that all of us attend class having read the material closely and prepared to participate fully. I also expect that we shall each take responsibility for following the daily news with an eye to new information and developments in the global war on terror. And, most importantly, I expect that our class discussions will be engaged, lively, and consistently respectful of differences in opinion, attentive to differences of interpretation, and responsive to differences in experience. For bear in mind, at stake are not solely matters of law, but also matters of life
Class Format:
To provide students with the ability to actively and substantively engage with course topics in a non-superficial manner, this course adopts an in-person, synchronous modality with partial online delivery of academic content. The course will be split between:
- Synchronous in-person discussion during scheduled course time (once per week)
- Online media (podcasts, movies, and simulations) followed by discussion questions
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/34210/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
3 August 2021

Fall 2021  |  POL 3833 Section 001: The United States and the Global Economy (22849)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 01:00PM - 02:15PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 150
Enrollment Status:
Open (43 of 55 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
POL 3833 teaches students about the politics of the global economy with a focus on the role the United States plays within it. The class covers a variety of topics in international political economy, including international trade, international investment, and international finance. Students will learn about the factors that drive politicians' decision-making, interest-group stances, and citizens' preferences over such salient issues as tariffs and other forms of trade protection, trade and investment agreements, central banking, interest rates, international migration, and more. No background in economics is required or assumed.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?jhollyer+POL3833+Fall2021
Class Description:
Globalization has been a defining force driving markets - and, hence, shaping politics - over the past 20 years. Global financial flows and imbalances are implicated in financial crises both recent and past, and the mobility of firms and migrants across international borders has important distributional and regulatory consequences. Yet, the impact of the U.S. on the global economy is not exclusive to purely financial phenomena: conflict and peace, technological innovation, natural resources, and economic development are all affected as rising levels of trade create new "winners" and "losers." This class examines some of the broad themes that characterize globalization with a focus on - but not only on - the U.S. and the ways in which its policy responses shape and are being shaped by globalization.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22849/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
10 August 2015

Fall 2021  |  POL 3835 Section 001: International Relations (19006)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 09:45AM - 11:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Anderson Hall 330
Enrollment Status:
Closed (85 of 85 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Why do countries go to war? Are individuals, organizations, and states driven by their interests or their ideas? What role does power play in international relations and is there any role for justice in global politics? Do international laws and transnational advocacy groups matter in a world dominated by powerful states? Whose interests are served by a globalizing world economy? These questions are central to the study of international relations, yet different theoretical approaches have been developed in an attempt to answer them. Often these approaches disagree with one another, leading to markedly different policy prescriptions and predictions for future events. This course provides the conceptual and theoretical means for analyzing these issues, processes, and events in international politics. By the end of this class, you will be able to understand the assumptions, the logics, and the implications of major theories and concepts of international relations. These include realism and neorealism, liberalism and liberal institutionalism, constructivism, feminism, Marxism, and critical theory. A special effort is made to relate the course material to world events, developments, or conflicts in the past decade or so.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?ccreamer+POL3835+Fall2021
Class Description:

Why do countries go to war? Are individuals, organizations, and states driven by their interests or their ideas? What role does power play in international relations and is there any role for justice in global politics? Do international laws and transnational advocacy groups matter in a world dominated by powerful states? Whose interests are served by a globalizing world economy? This course provides the conceptual and theoretical means for analyzing these issues, processes, and events in international politics. By the end of this class, you will be able to understand the assumptions, the logics, and the implications of major theories and concepts of international relations. These include realism, liberalism, institutionalism, constructivism, feminism, post-colonial theory, and neo-Marxism. A special effort is made to relate the course material to world events and developments in the past decade or so. Specific topics covered include: the ascendance of China; new technologies and national security; the future of the human rights movement and backlash against global governance; trade wars, weaponized interdependence, and pandemic politics.

Learning Objectives:

This course places special emphasis on helping you - as a global citizen - learn to:

  • synthesize and evaluate existing theoretical approaches within international relations

  • identify their strengths and weaknesses

  • construct an argument for why we observe particular outcomes in world politics
Grading:
  • MINI-ANALYTICAL PAPERS: 20% (two, each worth 10 points)
  • WEEKLY COMPREHENSION QUIZZES: 20%
  • IR SIMULATION: 25%
  • FINAL SIMULATION PROJECT: 20%
  • ATTENDANCE & PARTICIPATION: 15%
Exam Format:
Mid-term Exam
Class Format:
  • In-person lectures followed by online comprehension quizzes
  • Simulation participation
Workload:

· 45-80 Pages Reading Per Week

· Weekly Quizzes

· 2 Take-Home Papers

· Simulation participation

Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/19006/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
24 November 2021

Fall 2021  |  POL 3994 Section 001: Directed Research: Distinguished Undergraduate Research Program (21773)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Independent Study
Credits:
2 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
4 Credits
Grading Basis:
A-F only
Instructor Consent:
Department Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
12:00AM - 12:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Enrollment Status:
Open (14 of 20 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Students accepted into the Distinguished Undergraduate Research Program work closely with a faculty mentor on supervised projects related to faculty research. Through these activities, students will deepen research, organizational, and communication skills that will prove useful for further training in political science or for other careers. Students are chosen through a highly competitive online application the semester prior to registration. Students should check with Political Science advising for details about the application process. This course is only open to Political Science majors.
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/21773/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 4255 Section 001: Comparative Real Time Political Analysis: Marxist versus Liberal Perspectives (23010)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Thu 06:20PM - 08:50PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 235
Enrollment Status:
Open (31 of 35 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Karl Marx and Frederick Engels had better democratic credentials than Alexis de Tocqueville and John Stuart Mill. Vladimir Lenin, too, had better democratic credentials than Max Weber and Woodrow Wilson. That's the provocative argument of this course. Performing what it calls "comparative real-time political analysis," it presents convincing evidence to sustain both claims. When the two sets of protagonists are compared and contrasted in how they read and responded to big political events in motion, in real-time, the Marxists, it contends, proved to be better democrats than the Liberals. Real-time analysis argues that responding to and making decisions about events in motion is the real test of political perspective and theory; on Monday morning, we can all look smart. The writings and actions of all seven protagonists are the primary course materials - reading them in their own words. The European Spring of 1848, the United States Civil War, the 1905 Russian Revolution and, the 1917 Russian Revolution and end of World War I, all consequential in the democratic quest, are the main scenarios the course employs to test its claims. The findings, course participants will learn, challenge assumed political wisdom like never before. Employing the lessons of the comparisons to trying to make sense of current politics - given the unprecedented moment in which we find ourselves - is the other goal of the course.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?animtz+POL4255+Fall2021
Class Description:
Karl Marx and Frederick Engels had better democratic credentials than Alexis de Tocqueville and John Stuart Mill. Vladimir Lenin, too, had better democratic credentials than Max Weber and Woodrow Wilson. That's the provocative argument of this course. Performing what it calls "comparative real-time political analysis," it presents convincing evidence to sustain both claims. When the two sets of protagonists are compared and contrasted in how they read and responded to big political events in motion, in real-time, the Marxists, it contends, proved to be better democrats than the Liberals. Real-time analysis argues that responding to and making decisions about events in motion is the real test of political perspective and theory; on Monday morning, we can all look smart. The writings and actions of all seven protagonists are the primary course materials, reading them in their own words. The European Spring of 1848, the United States Civil War, the 1905 Russian Revolution and, the 1917 Russian Revolution and end of World War I, all consequential in the democratic quest, are the main scenarios the course employs to test its claims. The findings, course participants will learn, challenge assumed political wisdom like never before. Employing the lessons of the comparisons to trying to make sense of current politics, given the unprecedented moment in which we find ourselves, is the other goal of the course.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/23010/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
25 March 2021

Fall 2021  |  POL 4267 Section 001: Imperialism and Modern Political Thought (22850)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 11:15AM - 12:30PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 125
Enrollment Status:
Closed (36 of 35 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
How has political theory been shaped by imperialism? We will investigate this question through a study of such key thinkers as Kant, Mill, Marx, Lenin, Csaire, Fanon, and Gandhi, reading them through the lens of empire. Our goal is to analyze how such thinkers reflected upon, problematized and, at times, justified forms of Western imperialism. We will look at their explicit reflections on empire, as well as more tangential or ostensibly separate themes that may have only been shaped by the imperial context in indirect ways. Finally, we will reflect upon our contemporary location as readers and agents situated in the wake of these political and intellectual developments, analyzed through the question of what it means to engage in anti-colonial, decolonial, and/or postcolonial critique. This course will combine lectures by the professor with student-led seminar discussion.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?rbnichol+POL4267+Fall2021
Class Description:
How has political theory been shaped by imperialism? We will investigate this question through a study of such key thinkers as Kant, Mill, Marx, Lenin, Cesaire, Fanon, and Gandhi, reading them through the lens of empire. Our goal is to analyze how such thinkers reflected upon, problematized and, at times, justified forms of Western imperialism. We will look at their explicit reflections on empire, as well as more tangential or ostensibly separate themes that may have only been shaped by the imperial context in indirect ways. Finally, we will reflect upon our contemporary location as readers and agents situated in the wake of these political and intellectual developments, analyzed through the question of what it means to engage in anti-colonial, decolonial, and/or postcolonial critique. This course will combine lectures by the professor with student-led seminar discussion.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22850/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
4 April 2019

Fall 2021  |  POL 4478W Section 001: Contemporary Politics in Africa and the Colonial Legacy (33584)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Meets With:
AFRO 4478W Section 001
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 02:30PM - 03:45PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 220
Enrollment Status:
Open (21 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
At the core, this class is about the interaction between the assertion of and challenge to political authority in Africa. Who should have the right to make decisions that structure people's lives? To what extent is "might" an important source of political authority? How, in turn, do people respond to these different means of establishing political authority? Using these questions as a springboard, this class will examine some broader themes relating to colonialism, state building, conflict and development in Africa. Politics in Africa, just as in any other place in the world, is complex and for that reason, the objective of the class is not to give you answers, but to have you think critically about the issues we cover. Towards this end, this class will draw on different sources ranging from novels to manifestos so as to illustrate both the mundane and extraordinary events that have helped shape the political landscape of the continent.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?jwoldens+POL4478W+Fall2021
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33584/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 4487 Section 001: The Struggle for Democratization and Citizenship (33585)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
4 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue 06:20PM - 08:50PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 240
Enrollment Status:
Open (26 of 35 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
How best to advance democracy - through the ballot box or in the streets? This question more than any other is what informs the course. As well as the streets, the barricades and the battlefields, it argues, are decisive in the democratic quest. If democracy means the rule of the demos, the people, then who gets to be included in "the people"? An underlying assumption of the course is that the inclusion of previously disenfranchised layers of society into the category of the people, the citizens, is due to social struggles or the threat of such - an assumption to be examined in the course. Struggles refer to any kinds of movement for social change, from protests and strikes to revolutions broadly defined. This course seeks to see if there are lessons of struggle. The course traces the history of the democratic movement from its earliest moments in human history and attempts to draw a balance sheet. In the process it seeks to answer a number of questions. Did social inequality always exist? How do property rights figure in the inclusion process? What is the relationship between the state, social inequality and democracy? Which social layers played a decisive role in the democratic breakthrough? What are the effective strategies and tactics in the democratic struggle? How crucial is leadership? And lastly, can the lessons of the past inform current practice? A particular feature of the course is to read about the thinking and actions of activists on both sides of the democratic struggle in, as much as possible, their own words.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?animtz+POL4487+Fall2021
Class Description:
The setting for this course is the mounting effort on the part of states and a variety of social forces to roll back the historic gains of the world-wide democratic movement--from anti-immigrant campaigns (in both fascist and non-fascist clothing) that would limit citizenship rights to efforts that undermine civil liberties in the guise of combatting terrorisim. This takes place in a larger context in which increasing numbers of citizens feel disempowered and alienated from the state. As democracy and popular participation are central to citizenship the course traces the origins of the democratic process with particular emphasis on how the disenfranchised fought to become included. Both implicitly and explicitly it seeks to understand how that occured in order to see if there are lessons of the past that that might have appllicability for the defense and extension of democratic rights today. To understand it was the disenfranchised who empowered themselves is in itself empowering. An underlying assumption of the course is that the inclusion of previously disenfranchised layers of society into the category of citizens is due to social struggles or the threat of such--an assumption to be examined in the course.
Grading:
25% Midterm Exam
50% Final Exam
25% Reports/Papers
Exam Format:
Essay
Class Format:
75% Lecture
25% Discussion
Workload:
100 Pages Reading Per Week
15 Pages Writing Per Term
2 Exam(s)
2 Paper(s)
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33585/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
24 October 2011

Fall 2021  |  POL 4771 Section 001: Race and Politics in America: Making Sense of Racial Attitudes in the United States (22854)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 02:30PM - 03:45PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 125
Enrollment Status:
Open (34 of 35 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Race continues to be one of the defining fault lines in American politics. Most obviously, the existence of racial inequality has enormous consequences for any given individual's social and economic standing. However, it also has had an enormous impact on the pattern of attitudes and beliefs which have served as the backdrop for many of society's most pressing political debates and conflicts. The purpose of this course is to provide students with an introduction to how political scientists have studied racial attitudes and the larger problem of inter-ethnic conflict in American society. We will begin with a look at the historical circumstances which have given rise to the major research questions in the area. From there, we'll look at the major research perspectives in the area, and see how well they actually explain public opinion on matters of race. In doing so, we'll also get a look at some of the major controversies in this area of study, particularly the issues of whether the "old-fashioned racism" of the pre-civil-rights era has been replaced by new forms of racism; and the degree to which debates over policy matters with no apparent link to race - such as crime and social welfare - may actually have a lot to do with racial attitudes. Finally, we will conclude by taking an informed look at racial attitudes in recent American history, focusing on how racial attitudes and their political consequences of have changed - and not changed - over the course of the Obama presidency and the tumultuous 2016 election.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?federico+POL4771+Fall2021
Class Description:
Race continues to be one of the defining fault lines in American politics. The purpose of this course is to provide students with an introduction to how political scientists have studied racial attitudes and the larger problem of inter-ethnic conflict in American society. We will begin with a look at the historical circumstances which have given rise to the major research questions in the area. From there, we'll look at the major research perspectives in the area, and see how well they actually explain public opinion on matters of race. In doing so, we’ll also get a look at some of the major controversies in this area of study, particularly whether the
“old-fashioned racism” of the pre-civil-rights era has been replaced by new forms of racism and the degree to which debates over policy matters with no apparent link to race—such as crime and social welfare—may actually have a lot to do with racial attitudes. Finally, we will conclude by taking a look at the question of whether the election of America’s first African-American president has ushered in a “post-racial” era.
Grading:
30% Midterm Exam
35% Final Exam
25% Reports/Papers
10% Class Participation
Exam Format:
There will be one midterm and a final exam; the midterm is worth 30%, whereas the final is worth 40%. Both exams consist of short answers and one essay question. In addition, students will complete a 5-10 page paper, worth 30% of their course grade.
Class Format:
75% lecture, 25% class discussion and small-group activities.
Workload:
100-150 pages of reading per week, plus one 5-10 page term paper
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22854/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
29 April 2015

Fall 2021  |  POL 4773W Section 001: Advocacy Organizations, Social Movements, and the Politics of Identity (22423)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 01:00PM - 02:15PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 235
Enrollment Status:
Open (45 of 50 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
This course introduces students to the major theoretical concepts and empirical findings in the study of U.S interest group politics. Students will read books and articles from a wide range of topics that include how interest groups are formed and maintained; various strategies and tactics that groups use to influence Congress, the courts, and executive branch; and whether those strategies result in fair and effective representation for all citizens in society. Throughout the semester students will be exposed to research using a variety of methodologies and intellectual approaches. Further, the class discussions will emphasize general concepts that reoccur in the readings and in other classes. The goal is to assist students in mastering the key concepts in group politics. This is also a writing intensive course. Effective writing is encouraged through several writing assignments that require you to think clearly and express your thoughts concisely.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?mdminta+POL4773W+Fall2021
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22423/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 4810 Section 001: Topics in International Politics and Foreign Policy -- Detention, Torture & Drones: Methods of War (34211)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
6 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Topics Course
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 08:15AM - 09:30AM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 130
Enrollment Status:
Open (23 of 35 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Analysis of selected issues in contemporary international relations. Topics vary, as specified in Class Schedule.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?kins0017+POL4810+Fall2021
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Exam Format:
To provide students with the ability to actively and substantively engage with course topics in a non-superficial manner, this course adopts an in-person, synchronous modality with partial online delivery of academic content. The course will be split between:
- Synchronous in-person discussion during scheduled course time (once per week)
- Online media (podcasts, movies, and simulations) followed by discussion questions
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/34211/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
3 August 2021

Fall 2021  |  POL 4881W Section 001: The Politics of International Law and Global Governance (35125)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
UMNTC Liberal Education Requirement
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon, Wed 04:00PM - 05:15PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 235
Enrollment Status:
Open (51 of 58 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
A dense and expanding network of international rules and regulations now covers the globe. These laws seek to regulate almost every activity that takes place across and sometimes within borders. How and to what extent have they been helpful in resolving conflicts between countries or in facilitating the achievement of common goals? How does international law impact government, foreign policies, domestic politics or national legal systems? In addressing these questions, this course provides an introduction to public international law for students of world politics. Throughout, we emphasize the relationship between law and politics and seek to understand why international law operates as it does. We will draw from historical and recent developments to explore these issues, including: the use of drones; the issue of war crimes and the formation of an International Criminal Court; the use of force for humanitarian purposes; the domestic impact of international human rights treaties; foreign investment disputes; and the relationship between international trade, development, and the environment.
Class Description:

This course is an introduction to international law for students of world politics. A dense and expanding network of international rules and regulations now cover the globe. The primary purpose of this course is to enhance your understanding of the ways in which international legal rules order international and domestic politics. How and to what extent has international law helped resolve conflicts between countries or helped governments achieve common goals? What is law's relationship with countries' foreign policies? How does international law interact with or impact domestic politics and legal systems? Throughout the course, we emphasize the relationship between law and politics to understand why international law operates as it does. A special effort is made to relate the course material to global developments in the past decade or so: new technologies and the use of force; racial biases in war crimes accountability; trade wars & investment disputes; forced migration, refugees, and climate change; systemic racism, gender-based violence, and human rights; the international law of pandemics; and backlash against global governance.

Who Should Take This Class?:

Students from all concentrations are welcome to enroll. This is advanced, specialized course that examines in-depth the politics of international law and global governance. It includes readings and assignments at the most intellectually demanding undergraduate level. While there are no course prerequisites, you would benefit from previous coursework in international politics or global studies, such as POL 3835: International Relations.

Requirements fulfilled by this course:


· Liberal Education

· Global Perspectives Theme

· Writing Intensive

Learning Objectives:

As a result of taking this course, you will be able to:

· Understand the basic structures and norms of the international legal system

· Articulate how and why various actors use international law to express values or achieve goals

· Better understand how law relates to important current issues

· Describe clearly when and how international law shapes global politics and policy

· Explain persuasively when and how international law shapes domestic politics and policy

· Use comparative and critical thinking and writing skills to bring together theory and practice

Grading:

Policy Memo: 15%

Analytical Essay: 15%

Online Comprehension Quizzes: 26%

International Agreement Group Project: 20%

Attendance & Participation: 24%

Exam Format:
n/a
Class Format:

This course adopts an in-person, synchronous modality with partial online delivery of academic content.


The course will be split between:


- Synchronous in-person discussion & simulation sessions during scheduled course time (once per week)

- Online lectures followed by comprehension quizzes

Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/35125/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
24 November 2021

Fall 2021  |  POL 4891 Section 001: The Politics of Nuclear Weapons (33586)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue, Thu 04:00PM - 05:15PM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 5
Enrollment Status:
Closed (55 of 55 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Nuclear weapons have been a feature of international politics since the first use of nuclear weapons against Hiroshima and Nagasaki at the end of World War II. But how exactly do nuclear weapons affect international politics? Are they a force for peace or for instability and war? How likely is nuclear war or nuclear terrorism? How dangerous is nuclear proliferation? Why does the United States have so many nuclear weapons? Is nuclear disarmament possible or desirable? This course examines these questions. We will first examine the the technologies that underpin nuclear weapons and their effects and the major theories used to understand the ways in which nuclear weapons affect international politics. Second, we will examine the major historical episodes of the nuclear age, including the Manhattan Project and bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki; the evolution of nuclear strategy and the arms race between the Soviet Union and the United States; the proliferation of nuclear weapons to regional powers and the development of the global non-proliferation regime; nuclear crises including the Cuban Missile Crisis and Korean War; and the rise of arms control. Finally, we'll consider a range of contemporary issues, including nuclear terrorism; the role nuclear energy will (and should) play in the future, the feasibility of nuclear disarmament; the role of nuclear weapons in India-Pakistan and future US-China relations; and the possibility of nuclear deals with so-called "rogue states" like Iran or North Korea.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?msbell+POL4891+Fall2021
Class Description:
How do nuclear weapons affect international politics? How likely is nuclear war or nuclear terrorism? How dangerous is nuclear proliferation? Is nuclear disarmament possible? Is it desirable? This course examines these questions.

The course is organized loosely into three sections. In the first section, students are introduced to the major theories used to understand nuclear weapons. They will be exposed to the technological underpinnings of nuclear materials, nuclear weapons, and their effects; the classic theory of the nuclear revolution and more recent criticisms of it; deterrence theory; theories of escalation and nuclear strategy; and theories of why and how countries seek nuclear weapons. The goal of this section is to give students the technical and conceptual tools needed to understand nuclear weapons and the way they have affected international politics.

The second section introduces students to the history of the nuclear age. Major historical episodes and the political, strategic, and ethical debates surrounding them will be discussed. For example, the course will cover the Manhattan Project and bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki; the evolution of nuclear strategy and the arms race between the Soviet Union and the United States; the proliferation of nuclear weapons to regional powers and the development of the global non-proliferation regime; nuclear crises including the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Suez Crisis, and Able Archer; and the history of arms control and detente. The goal of this section of the course is to give students a solid empirical understanding of the nuclear age that will enable them to evaluate, use, and understand the limitations of the theories and concepts introduced in the first third of the course.

The third section considers a range of contemporary issues, including nuclear terrorism; the role nuclear energy will (and should) play in the future, the feasibility of nuclear disarmament; the role of nuclear weapons in future US-China relations; the role of nuclear weapons in South Asia; the Iran nuclear deal and potential future proliferation; and the ways in which current and future technological developments may impact nuclear issues. In this section of the course, we will use understanding of both history and theory to evaluate the importance and impact of these ongoing and future challenges.
Who Should Take This Class?:
There are no formal prerequisites for the class, but students who have taken a previous class on international politics (for example, POL 1025: Global Politics, POL 1026: U.S. Foreign Policy, POL 3835: International Relations, POL 3810: International Law, or POL 4885: International Conflict and Security) will likely get the most out of the class. If you don't have any background of this sort, it would be advisable to speak with the TA or instructor before committing to take the class.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33586/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
15 October 2019

Fall 2021  |  POL 4991 Section 001: Political Science Capstone (22855)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Enrollment Requirements:
Political Science senior
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue 09:45AM - 11:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
West Bank Skyway AUDITORIUM
Enrollment Status:
Open (58 of 70 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
The Political Science Capstone is a required course that provides students with a unique opportunity to reflect on, articulate, share, and build on their individual experiences in the major. It invites students to reflect on what they have learned as political science majors; to demonstrate their knowledge through the preparation of a portfolio of materials; and to think about how the knowledge, skills, and insights of acquired in their major experience can be used and applied outside of the University. Students double majoring in Political Science and another discipline may choose to take this course or complete the capstone in their other major. Political Science majors who are writing an Honors thesis are exempt from this capstone requirement, as the department will recognize the senior thesis as the capstone experience.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?hilbink+POL4991+Fall2021
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22855/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 4991 Section 002: Political Science Capstone (33587)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Discussion
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Thu 09:45AM - 11:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Hubert H Humphrey Center 25
Auto Enrolls With:
Section 001
Enrollment Status:
Open (34 of 35 seats filled)
Course Catalog Description:
The Political Science Capstone is a required course that provides students with a unique opportunity to reflect on, articulate, share, and build on their individual experiences in the major. It invites students to reflect on what they have learned as political science majors; to demonstrate their knowledge through the preparation of a portfolio of materials; and to think about how the knowledge, skills, and insights of acquired in their major experience can be used and applied outside of the University. Students double majoring in Political Science and another discipline may choose to take this course or complete the capstone in their other major. Political Science majors who are writing an Honors thesis are exempt from this capstone requirement, as the department will recognize the senior thesis as the capstone experience.
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33587/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 4991 Section 003: Political Science Capstone (33588)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Discussion
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Thu 09:45AM - 11:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Blegen Hall 415
Auto Enrolls With:
Section 001
Enrollment Status:
Open (24 of 35 seats filled)
Course Catalog Description:
The Political Science Capstone is a required course that provides students with a unique opportunity to reflect on, articulate, share, and build on their individual experiences in the major. It invites students to reflect on what they have learned as political science majors; to demonstrate their knowledge through the preparation of a portfolio of materials; and to think about how the knowledge, skills, and insights of acquired in their major experience can be used and applied outside of the University. Students double majoring in Political Science and another discipline may choose to take this course or complete the capstone in their other major. Political Science majors who are writing an Honors thesis are exempt from this capstone requirement, as the department will recognize the senior thesis as the capstone experience.
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33588/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 4993 Section 001: Honors Thesis: Directed Studies (19868)

Instructor(s)
No instructor assigned
Class Component:
Independent Study
Credits:
1-6 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
12 Credits
Grading Basis:
A-F only
Instructor Consent:
Instructor Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Honors
Enrollment Requirements:
Pol 3108H, political science major, honors
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
12:00AM - 12:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Enrollment Status:
Open (18 of 20 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Individual research/writing of departmental honors thesis.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?POL4993+Fall2021
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/19868/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 4994 Section 001: Directed Research: Individual (19519)

Instructor(s)
No instructor assigned
Class Component:
Independent Study
Credits:
1-4 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
4 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
Department Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
12:00AM - 12:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Enrollment Status:
Open (10 of 20 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Directed individual reading and research between a student and faculty member. Prerequisite instructor and department consent.
Class Notes:
http://classinfo.umn.edu/?POL4994+Fall2021
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/19519/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 5970 Section 001: Individual Reading and Research (23296)

Instructor(s)
No instructor assigned
Class Component:
Independent Study
Credits:
1-4 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
8 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
Department Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Grade Sort
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
UMTC, West Bank
Enrollment Status:
Open (0 of 15 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Guided individual reading or study. Prereq instr consent, dept consent, college consent.
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/23296/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 8060 Section 001: Research Proseminar in Political Science (21478)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
2 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
8 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Enrollment Requirements:
Pol Sci grad major
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Fri 09:00AM - 10:55AM
UMTC, West Bank
Social Sciences Building 1314
Enrollment Status:
Open (5 of 10 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Readings, discussion, guest speakers. Topics vary by semester.
Class Notes:
Power, Equity, and Diversity Core
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/21478/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 8105 Section 001: Professional Development II (22164)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
1 Credit
Repeat Credit Limit:
2 Credits
Grading Basis:
S-N or Audit
Instructor Consent:
Department Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Enrollment Requirements:
Pol Sci grad major
Times and Locations:
Second Half of Term
 
10/26/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon 09:00AM - 10:55AM
UMTC, West Bank
Social Sciences Building 1383
Enrollment Status:
Open (7 of 10 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Research ethics. Skills for teaching undergraduate courses in political science. Completion of dissertation prospecti or early chapters. prereq: Pol sci student, ABD, dept consent
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22164/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 8108 Section 001: Maximum Likelihood Estimation (22425)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Laboratory
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Enrollment Requirements:
Pol Sci grad major
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Wed 09:00AM - 10:55AM
UMTC, West Bank
Social Sciences Building 1383
Enrollment Status:
Open (3 of 10 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
This course presents an overview of the likelihood theory of statistical inference, and its wide range of uses in applied quantitative political science. When dependent variables take the form of ordered or unordered categories, event counts, or otherwise violate the traditional assumptions of the linear regression model, models estimated by maximum likelihood provide an essential alternative. Topics covered include binary, multinomial, and ordered logit/probit, Poisson regression, and multilevel models. We will rely heavily on computational methods of analysis using the R statistical computing environment, and instruction on how to use R for applied research will be provided throughout the length of the course.
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22425/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 8124 Section 001: Game Theory (33590)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Enrollment Requirements:
Political Science grad student
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon 03:35PM - 05:30PM
UMTC, West Bank
Social Sciences Building 1383
Enrollment Status:
Open (3 of 10 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Application of noncooperative game theory in political science. Equilibrium concepts, bargaining, repeated games, games of incomplete information, signaling games, reputation, learning in games. prereq: [8122, grad pol sci major] or instr consent
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33590/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 8252 Section 001: Early Modern Political Thought (33593)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Enrollment Requirements:
Pol Sci grad major
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue 09:00AM - 10:55AM
UMTC, West Bank
Social Sciences Building 1383
Enrollment Status:
Open (5 of 10 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Theorists and texts from Renaissance to French Revolution. Selectively includes Machiavelli, More, Calvin, Luther, Grotius, Bodin, Hobbes, Winstanley, Harrington, Locke, Montesquieu, Rousseau, Hume, Smith, Burke, and Wollstonecraft; key debates over liberty, law, power, and knowledge. prereq: Grad pol sci major or instr consent
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33593/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 8360 Section 001: Topics in American Politics -- Women, Sex, and Gender in American Politics (33594)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
9 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Topics Course
Enrollment Requirements:
Political Science grad student
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue 01:25PM - 03:20PM
UMTC, West Bank
Social Sciences Building 1450
Enrollment Status:
Open (3 of 10 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Readings and research in special topics or problems. prereq: instr consent
Class Notes:
Women, Sex, and Gender in American Politics
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33594/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 8401 Section 001: International Relations (22858)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Enrollment Requirements:
Political Science grad student
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Mon 01:25PM - 03:20PM
UMTC, West Bank
Social Sciences Building 1314
Enrollment Status:
Open (9 of 10 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Basic theories/approaches to study of international politics. Surveys representative work/central issues of scholarship. prereq: Grad pol sci major or dept consent
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22858/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 8444 Section 001: FTE: Doctoral (19668)

Instructor(s)
No instructor assigned
Class Component:
Independent Study
Credits:
1 Credit
Repeat Credit Limit:
10 Credits
Grading Basis:
No Grade Associated
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Grade Sort
Enrollment Requirements:
Advanced Doctoral Student
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
12:00AM - 12:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Enrollment Status:
Open (22 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
(No description) prereq: Doctoral student, adviser and director of graduate studies consent
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/19668/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 8601 Section 001: Introduction to Comparative Politics (22859)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Discussion
Credits:
3 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Enrollment Requirements:
Pol Sci grad major
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Tue 05:45PM - 07:40PM
UMTC, West Bank
Social Sciences Building 1383
Enrollment Status:
Open (6 of 10 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Main theoretical approaches and issues: comparative method, the state and class; political culture; development, democratization, rational choice, social movements. prereq: Grad pol sci major
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/22859/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 8660 Section 001: Topics in Comparative Politics -- Religion and Politics (33595)

Instructor(s)
Class Component:
Lecture
Credits:
3 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
9 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Topics Course
Enrollment Requirements:
Pol Sci grad major
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
Thu 03:35PM - 05:30PM
UMTC, West Bank
Social Sciences Building 1383
Enrollment Status:
Open (4 of 10 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
Readings in advanced topics or problems. Supervised research/training. Topics specified in Class Schedule.
Class Notes:
Religion and Politics
Class Description:
This course examines theoretical debates about the role of religion in politics and governance. The course will primarily focus on these debates as they play out in the "Muslim world," that is, primarily in the Middle East, Muslim Eurasia, South and Southeast Asia and Africa. However, the course will discuss comparative political and sociological theories of religion more broadly. The course will also include a number of readings and examples that deal with the role of Christianity in western politics, historically and today. The course is divided into theoretical components, and each one will examine a major debate about the role of religion, especially Islam, in politics, such as: the intricate relationship between religious identity and tribe, ethnicity, nation and nationalism, and citizenship; religion and democracy; religion and gender politics; religion and state-building; religion and conflict; and religion and terrorism. The course will also cover a broad array of methodologies for studying religious identity and politics, from ethnographic to survey methods. These discussions are designed to help graduate students think about developing their own tools for pursuing field research related to religious and identity politics. The course has a political science focus, but is designed to be interdisciplinary. It draws on literature in anthropology (Saba Mahmood), sociology (e.g. Ronald Inglehart, Mounira Charrad), law (e.g. Noah Feldman, Hallaq), Islamic studies (e.g. Asma Afsaruddin) and history (e.g. Benin, John Esposito), as well as political science (Mark Tessler, Amaney Jamal, Robert Pape). Course requirements will include a final research paper and class presentations.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/33595/1219
Instructor Supplied Information Last Updated:
1 April 2009

Fall 2021  |  POL 8666 Section 001: Doctoral Pre-Thesis Credits (19691)

Instructor(s)
No instructor assigned
Class Component:
Independent Study
Credits:
1-6 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
12 Credits
Grading Basis:
No Grade Associated
Instructor Consent:
Department Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Grade Sort
Enrollment Requirements:
Pol Doctoral Student
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
12:00AM - 12:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Enrollment Status:
Open (0 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
TBD prereq: Doctoral student who has not passed prelim oral, up to 24 combined cr, permission number required for registration, doctoral student admitted before summer 2007 may register up to four times, up to 60 combined cr
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/19691/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 8888 Section 001: Thesis Credit: Doctoral (19587)

Instructor(s)
No instructor assigned
Class Component:
Independent Study
Credits:
1-24 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
100 Credits
Grading Basis:
No Grade Associated
Instructor Consent:
No Special Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Grade Sort
Enrollment Requirements:
Political Science PhD, Doct or ETCR
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
12:00AM - 12:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Enrollment Status:
Open (17 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
(No description) prereq: Max 18 cr per semester or summer; 24 cr required
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/19587/1219

Fall 2021  |  POL 8990 Section 001: Directed Readings and Research in Political Science (19096)

Instructor(s)
No instructor assigned
Class Component:
Independent Study
Credits:
1-7 Credits
Repeat Credit Limit:
7 Credits
Grading Basis:
Student Option
Instructor Consent:
Department Consent Required
Instruction Mode:
In Person Term Based
Class Attributes:
Grade Sort
Times and Locations:
Regular Academic Session
 
09/07/2021 - 12/15/2021
12:00AM - 12:00AM
UMTC, West Bank
Enrollment Status:
Open (3 of 30 seats filled)
Also Offered:
Course Catalog Description:
TBD prereq: 16 cr 8xxx pol sci courses, instr consent, dept consent
Class Description:
Student may contact the instructor or department for information.
Textbooks:
https://bookstores.umn.edu/course-lookup/19096/1219

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