An examination of the structure, functions and processes of the American system of government is included in this course. The course reviews and evaluates the historical, political, social, philosophical and religious factors, accounting for the impact of such factors in the American system. Special attention is given to recent modifications and reinterpretations of contemporary phenomena and the effects of these changes on federal and state governments. This course provides an analysis of the structures and functions of state and local governments in the United States.
Special attention is given to the state of Alabama.
Examining the entire gamut of American political parties, this course accounts for the evolution, formal and informal organization, operations, functions, leadership and the roles of American political parties. It also examines the impact of external factors, like pressure groups, on American political parties. A study of the structure, functions and processes of representative world governments and their political systems. Also an examination of the world systems, institutions, ideologies, interest groups, decision-making processes, political conflicts and changes, and group interaction. This course reviews the evolution of political science as a distinctive discipline and examines past and present trends in the discipline.