More than ever, it is important that United States citizens and other students studying American political institutions and history think carefully about our system of government. I realize that one semester is a very brief time to assimilate the broad scope of the subject matter at hand. Accordingly, I will make every effort to keep our time together as interesting as possible. Your active participation in class will make my job easier and make your experience more rewarding. My former students will tell you that I encourage student input during class discussions and I particularly encourage students to be forceful in stating their views.
Lively debate is a hallmark of a vital society.
That's why keeping up with the reading and keeping up with current political events is so important. The assigned readings provide plenty of material to weave articulate arguments on a wide variety of issues. As important, the readings will help you develop the historical perspective that is necessary to understand the political dynamic of our times. I expect every student to attend every hour of every class meeting. Any student may be withdrawn if she or he has missed more than five class hours.