Kenyon Callahan's Political Science 100
Welcome to Professor Callahan's American Government Course
Political Science 1 American Politics is a survey course on the principles of American government and the workings of American politics. The course transfers to the UC and CSU systems and is designed to satisfy the American institutions requirement for an AA degree.
PS 1 includes readings, lectures, and class discussions covering democracy in comparison to other political systems, basic political and democratic theory, the origins and concepts of American Democracy, the Constitution, federalism, public opinion, political participation, interest groups, the media, the presidency and the executive branch, bureaucracy, Congress, the electoral process and the political party system, the Supreme Court and the judicial system, civil rights and civil liberties, state and local government, as well as the governmental process and the formulation of public policy. Current events and political opinion, particularly as they relate to the subject matter of the class, will also be discussed.
One definition of this course might be “How to attain some idea of what you are going to do in the voting booth.” At least in the normative sense, democracy — including representative democracy — is based upon the premise that healthy political and governmental processes require the participation of a knowledgeable and informed citizenry. Of course, many believe that it is debatable whether or not this theory truly applies to the reality of American politics (an issue that will occasionally arise and be discussed at times during the semester). This course aims to provide the student with enough information and thought- provoking ideas so that he or she can understand and/or effectively participate in the American political system.
Upon completion of the course, students will be able to recognize and describe the major institutions that comprise the American political system, know the key components of the US Constitution, identify and be familiar with the pertinent vocabulary of American politics, and recognize the relevance of politics to individuals within society and society as a whole.
Student Learning Outcomes: Identify the elective offices at each of the four levels of government in the United States; define and distinguish between human rights, civil liberties and civil rights; identify and describe the three branches of the US federal government, their powers and duties, and the checks and balances.
Course Objectives:
1. Students will understand the effects of mass movements on public policy.
2. Students will analyze a pro/con argument regarding Presidential war making powers.
3. Students will identify the differences in policy outcomes between a united and divide government.
4. Students will identify the separate functions of the three branches of government.
5. Students will apply concept of iron triangles to policy making in the U.S.
Course Summary:
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