Introduction to Political Science
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Course Description
editPOLS 100 is designed to equip students with the very basics of the Political Science discipline. There will be four units that cover the four pillars of Political Science: Political Theory, Government & Politics, Comparative Politics, and International Relations. Each unit is designed to provide students with a broad overview of how each pillar supports the Political Science Construct. In subsequent classes you will go into more depth about the various pillars. In POLS 100 you will learn the origins of major political theories from both Western and Eastern schools. The Government & Politics unit will introduce the prevailing governmental structures of the world to include democracy, socialism, and autocracy. Comparative Politics will introduce you to methodoligies in making substantive links between similar government structures while equipping you with tools to articulate their differences. Finally, the International Relations Unit will give you a broad overview of the major international institutions that effect international policymakers from the governmental and non-governmental perspectives.
Course Objectives
edit- Introduce basic political theory concepts. Topics will include:
- Classic Political Theorists and Concepts
- Thucydides - Introduce Thucydides as a core theorist in Political Science for both Realism and Liberalism in his work, the Peloponessian Wars
- Socrates and Plato - Introduce the works of theorists Socrates and Plato while exploring the major tenets of their work, The Republic
- Aristotle - Introduce the theorist Aristotle and his thoughts on virtue in politics in his work The Politics
- Niccolo Machiavelli - Introduce the theorist Niccolo Machiavelli and his Realist work The Prince
- Confucius - Introduce a great Eastern Philosopher and explore some of the major tenets of his work Great Learning
- Classic Political Theorists and Concepts
- Introduce basic government & politics concepts. Topics include:
- Introduce basic comparative politics concepts. Topics include:
- Introduce basic international relations concepts. Topics include:
Syllabus by Instructor
editClasses by Instructor
editCourse Material
editThis section will provide you with the very basics across the courses, no matter which instructor you choose. It's important to read the subject matter that the instructor provides so that you can adequately accomplish the various assignments that will be provided by the instructor. Remember, you only get out of this experience what you put into it. Instructors understand that they are taking on a responsibility to provide feedback in a professional and timely manner. Utilize all materials available to you to make your learning experience worthwhile.