Political Science

Introduction to Political Science is a special topic covering research, theory, comparative, US and international questions within the discipline. Key concepts in political science, political theory and political ideology are discussed. The course will demonstrate that political science is a field of inquiry with practical uses.

An examination of the cultural, constitutional, and political bases of the American system of government at the federal, state, and local levels. Topics covered in this course include the growing power of the executive branch of the federal government, the division of governmental responsibilities between the federal and state governments, and administrative problems arising from the implementation of public policy on the state and local levels. (Offered alternate years.)

An examination of the various state and local governments of the United States. The course will include a brief overview of the American national government. Where applicable, the state of South Carolina will be used as an example.

An examination of the forms of civil government, carried out through a representative selection of the world’s governments. The political regimes of five countries are studied: the United States, Britain, France, Germany, and the Soviet Union. (Offered as needed.)

An examination of the history and forms of international politics and diplomacy. The course will include discussion of the concepts of realism and idealism, balance of power theory, nationalism, international and regional organizations, and multinational corporations.

This course is designed for upper-level students to discuss in great detail that “fourth branch of government”, the Bureaucracy. While this is an upper-level course, it is also an introductory course to the field of public administration. Thus, by necessity, this course will bear some resemblance to a survey course.

In this course, students learn the history and philosophy of the American Constitutional Order largely through the study of Supreme Court cases, which have had a major impact on civil rights and liberties.