Seeks to equip the student with the background necessary to operate effectively within the political environment of policy-making. Examines policies and programs designed to reduce social and economic distress in U.S. communities. Focuses on local and neighborhood-based efforts to address problems of inadequate housing, unemployment, lack of community services and facilities, crime etc. Considers role of government, private sector, and nonprofit organizations in community revitalization. Explores how a reasoning mode is translated into action through the policy process.
Builds skill in mustering a particular mode of reasoning to argue public policy positions.
Emphasizes policy options available to state and local governments and community organizations to expand affordable housing and revitalize inner-city neighborhoods. This seminar seeks to examine the ways in which various aspects of intergovernmental relations affect the adoption and implementation of public policy. The course will focus on the actors in the intergovernmental system and the modes of behavior that have been developed to manage the disparate agendas at play. It will provide an overview of the theoretical literature in federalism and intergovernmental relations and establish linkages to public policy concepts and approaches. Discusses the roles of local and national governments, community participation, business, non-profits, and international aid.