An examination of the teachings of the classical period of political theory from early Greeks through the political writings of Thomas Aquinas. An examination of the normative teachings of modern political theory beginning with Machiavelli up to the writings of John Stuart Mill. An exploration of the dominant political ideologies that shape decisions about and understanding of political events, including but not limited to capitalism, socialism, communism, patriarchy, feminism, environmentalism, liberation theology, liberalism, populism, and nationalism. A study of the foundations of American political thought from the Puritan era to contemporary times. A focus on the study of public administration processes and underlying theories within American government structures.
Emphasis is on the pragmatic aspects of current government leadership and public agency management.
An examination of the basic problems involved in the development of public policy by government actors and institutions, with emphasis on public decision making, organizational theory, and political and administrative influences on the policy making process. An examination of the emergence of national health care programs in the United States. The course focuses on the contending interests in the health policy arena and on related management issues. A study of the politics and government of Europe. The course focuses on key political institutions and issues in major European countries, and the impact of integration on the nation-state.