American Politics

This course will introduce you to the American political system and the core theories that seek to explain U.S. politics. We will cover basic information, like what Congress does and how the Electoral College operates, as well as deeper questions like: Why do elected officials behave as they do? What role do parties and interest groups play in representing the diverse views and interests of the American people? Why does America rarely have a credible third party alternative? Why do citizens participate in politics?\ud I have three main goals for the semester. First, on a substantive level, I hope that you will establish a solid foundation for understanding U.S. politics. To accomplish this goal the course will introduce you to a variety of academic theories that scholars have developed to explain how the American political system operates. Second, from a procedural standpoint, I hope you will hone your critical thinking and reading skills. In other words, I want you to further your ability to carefully interrogate ideas, arguments, and evidence. Finally, I hope that this course encourages you to ask questions about the political world. As developing scholars (and soon-to-be thesis writers) it is essential that you learn how to ask and answer questions that are important to you. This course begins that process by showing you how previous scholars have asked and answered their questions about how American politics works