Political institutions and behavior in selected European, Communist, and developing countries are examined in their cultural contexts and in relation to the general theories of comparative politics. The course is designed to expose the student to the tools of comparative political analysis as well as to the varied structures and functions of modern political systems. A survey of the diplomatic, legal, economic, military, and organizational relations of nations and the major contemporary problems of world politics. The forces of change in the international system and the impact of sovereignty, nationalism, and power politics are given special attention. This course provides a historical and analytical background for understanding the developments that are taking place in the political, strategic, and economic relations of the countries of Western Europe with the rest of the world, especially with Eastern Europe, the Soviet Union, and the United States.
Considerable attention is given to Russia's current attempt to define for itself a new world role.
The issues of American civil liberties and civil rights are viewed within the framework of decisions of the United States Supreme Court. An analysis of American electoral politics, with an emphasis on presidential campaigns and elections and the factors that affect their outcome. The goal of the course is to develop an understanding of the political process as a means of encouraging effective citizen participation. The course in designed to introduce the student to the world of public bureaucracy and to further an understanding of the ways in which public policies are shaped through administrative processes. Administrative organization and decision making and problems of management, personnel administration, and budgeting are covered.