Government and politics
Courses in government and politics (designated GVPT) may be applied as appropriate (according to individual program requirements) toward
- the general education requirement in the behavioral and social sciences;
- a major in political science;
- a minor in political science; and
- electives.
GVPT 100 Introduction to Political Science (3)
A survey of the basic principles of political science. The objective is to define the main features of primary systems of political economy to understand differing methods of governance and articulate consequences of government actions in a globally interdependent system. Topics include the relationship of political science to the other social sciences; modern democracy, political ideology, and political socialization; the function of public opinion, mass media, interest groups, and political parties; the basic institutions of government and the separation of powers; and the role of international relations and globalization.
GVPT 101 Introduction to Political Theory (3)
An overview of the main schools of political theory, including democracy, authoritarianism, and alternative theories. The aim is to be familiar with important thinkers and major works in the history of political theory, use theoretical language to analyze and critique political behavior and events, identify strengths and weaknesses of different governmental forms, and demonstrate knowledge of crucial concepts and their history (justice, power, authority, the state, social contract, etc.). Topics include the philosophical foundations of liberalism, socialism, conservatism, and core political concepts—justice, power, and authority.
GVPT 170 American Government (3)
A comprehensive study of government in the United States, including the basic principles of American government and political culture. The aim is to explain the vertical and horizontal structure of the American government and the roles of the three federal branches, bureaucracies, and the state governments; describe the development of the American political system and its impact on the political landscape; and explain the processes of the electoral system, political parties, and interest groups to persuade and influence. Institutions, processes, and public policies are examined from a cross-cultural perspective.
GVPT 200 International Political Relations (3)
A study of the major factors underlying international relations, the methods of conducting foreign relations, and the means of avoiding or alleviating international conflicts. The objective is to interact with global communities, contribute to policy formation, analyze differing worldviews, and apply historical and cultural contexts to identify probable outcomes of disputes. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GVPT 200 or GVPT 300.
GVPT 240 Political Ideologies (3)
A survey and an analysis of the leading ideologies of the modern world. Topics include anarchism, communism, socialism, fascism, nationalism, and democracy.
GVPT 280 Comparative Politics and Government (3)
An introductory study of institutional patterns and trends in a variety of countries with dissimilar governmental styles. The goal is to compare the stages of political development in the modern state system on a spectrum ranging from liberal democracies to authoritarian regimes. Discussion covers ethnic conflict and economic inequality in relation to the success and failure of governmental approaches in solving compelling issues.
GVPT 403 Law, Morality, and War (3)
Prerequisite: WRTG 101 or WRTG 101S. A study of just war traditions. The objective is to make informed decisions and analyze conflict. Discussions cover the theoretical and practical connections between law, war, and morality.
GVPT 406 Global Terrorism (3)
Prerequisite: WRTG 101 or WRTG 101S. An examination of the development of global terrorism and its impact on the international community. The goal is to participate in strategy and policy formulation and implementation, evaluate threats, and assess infrastructures that support global terrorist organizations. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GVPT 401A or GVPT 406.
Last updated: 2 August 2012