This course provides an advanced overview of American politics and government. Course material is divided
into three broad sections. The first section briefly covers the historical, philosophical, and constitutional
foundations of the United States. The second section examines the major American formal governing
institutions (e.g., the presidency, the Congress, the courts, and the bureaucracy) and organizations (e.g.,
political parties). The third section covers mass and elite political behavior and contemporary political issues.
Throughout the course, there will be a strong focus on relating the modern American political environment
to the country’s founding principles and philosophies, as well the historical development that led to the
current status quo. Most topics will be covered using both lectures and in-class discussions and activities.