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Introduction to Political Science (PSCI 1110)
Total Credits:
3
Lecture Credits:
3
Description:
This course deals with a number of topics that are part of the academic discipline of political science, including political theory, political ideologies, government, political culture, politics of diversity, politics of media, politics of change, political economy, international politics, and comparative government. The course draws its context and contents, its examples and its processes, from a global reality as much as possible, giving the course a special emphasis on the topics of comparative government and international politics. The course also requires students to examine their own political experience, political ideas, political culture, and political socialization in the context of considerations of alternative diverse opinions, interests, and ethical views.
Topical Outline:
1. Democracy
2. Power/Power Analysis & Nationalism
3. Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Marxism, Communism & Fascism
4. Politics of Race, Gender, Class & Change/Political Participation & Contemporary Political Issues
5. Political Economy & Politics of the Media
6. Elections, Parties & Interest Groups/Parliamentary & Presidential Systems
Learning Outcomes:
1. Assess the discipline of political science and the methods used to investigate the political dimension of the human condition
2. Compare and contrast key concepts, explanatory systems, and the theories for analyzing alternative views and perspectives on politics and political systems
3. Analyze political theory, political ideologies, political participation, political economy, politics of the media, political institutions, political culture, comparative government, and international politics
4. Appraise the politics of diversity, race, class, and gender in contemporary society
5. Outline different ways to participate as an active citizen in the exercise of political rights and responsibilities
6. Synthesize one’s own political socialization, political experience, and place in the political culture
Prerequisites:
Placement into
READ 0200 or
ESOL 0052 or completion of
READ 0100 or
ESOL 0042
MnTC: