POS-1000 Introduction to Politics

Credits 3
This is an introduction to the study of political science. It introduces vocabulary and key terms and concepts used in political dialogue and analysis. A variety of ideas, approaches, and concepts about the study of politics and the field of political science are introduced, including classical Greek and later European contributions. Democratic, authoritarian, and totalitarian forms of government are introduced. Politics by peaceful and violent means are studied as well as the role of political socialization, civic culture, and participation. Finally, the course surveys the fields of political science including American, comparative, international, political theory and methodology.
Course Outcomes

Identify basic political ideas and define fundamental political concepts.
Discuss different approaches to the study of politics, political problems, and behavior.
Evaluate political phenomena using empirical and theoretical methods.
Identify areas within the field of political science including but not limited to American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory and methodology.