This course focuses on the American process of determining who gets what, when, and why. Throughout, we will attempt to identify the underlying value choices we make, as a society, and as individual citizens. Quite simply, it affects and shapes your options in life. Power and control are central concerns. The better we as citizens understand politics, the more control we retain over our lives and our society.
Empowerment can only come from knowledge.
The class will be divided between lecture, discussion, active role plays, group presentations, and occasional films. Students are expected to attend class sessions regularly and to keep up with assigned readings. Further, students are expected to participate actively in class discussions and projects. A 10-12 page paper exploring some topic related to American Government is required. The paper should critically analyze an issue, keeping in mind the political and economic implications.