This course explores the American political system - its philosophical underpinnings, the structure and behavior of formal government institutions, and the influence of informal political actors within the political construct. The course introduces the discipline of political science by exploring a broad range of literature: classics of American politics, leading political theory, and contemporary reading. Cadets will apply their knowledge of political ideas, institutions, and behavior to public policy making and demonstrate critical analysis of contemporary debates in American politics. Finally, this course provides cadets with an understanding of the professional norms and responsibilities associated with their role as military officers within the American system of government.
This course explores the American political system - its philosophical underpinnings, the structure and behavior of formal government institutions, and the influence of informal political actors within the political construct. The course introduces the discipline of political science by exploring a broad range of literature: classics of American politics, leading political theory, and contemporary reading. Cadets will apply their knowledge of political ideas, institutions, and behavior to public policy making and demonstrate critical analysis of contemporary debates in American politics. Finally, this course provides cadets with an understanding of the professional norms and responsibilities associated with their role as military officers within the American system of government.
This course explores the American political system - how it works, its strengths, its weaknesses, its conflicts, its controversies. The course emphasizes how our democracy makes decisions about politics & policy to balance the many competing values and demands of a free society. The course begins with the study of the constitutional foundations of American government and then examines political behavior, institutions of government, and the policy making process. The course integrates the study of civil-military relations and the broader study of political science as a discipline throughout the semester.
Lessons
40 @ 55 min (2.500 Att/wk)
Labs
7 @ 120 min
Special requirements
One political analysis paper of 2500 words; compensatory time provided.
This course introduces cadets to the fundamentals of American politics and to contrasting theoretical views of American democracy. The thematic focus of the course rests in the two questions "who governs?" and how democratic is America. The course begins with a study of the constitutional foundations of American government and then examines political participation, political institutions, and policymaking processes. Emphasis is placed on the theoretical interpretation of political phenomena. Most classes are conducted as seminars, with a few sessions devoted entirely to lecture. Guest lecturers and simulations supplement in-class work.
Lessons
40 @ 55 min (2.500 Att/wk)
Labs
7 @ 120 min
Special requirements
One political analysis paper of 3000 words; compensatory time provided.
