Introduces students to a variety of modes of analysis and methods of approaching political questions. A methods seminar focusing on the interplay between problems and the process of defining researchable historical problems. Involves study of descriptive statistical methods, their uses and abuses, and qualitative issues concerning sources, interpretation and narrative, with a concentration on examining primary sources. Sophomore standing An examination as to how government decides to address problems. The stages of the policy-making process.
Special attention is paid to the methods of program evaluation.
Substantive policy areas are discussed, with an emphasis on social welfare, health, education, urban, and environmental protection policies. Offered alternate years. Approaches which draw upon Lockean liberalism, American exceptionalism, pluralism, class analysis, and the role of race and gender in American politics are compared. This course examines the growth of the EU, the operation and policies of its several institutions, and prospective developments for the future. An in-depth examination of current issues in politics.