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SKIDMORE PHONE
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Government
Chair of Department of Government: Katherine E. Graney
Professors: Aldo C. Vacs;
Steven A. Hoffmann;
Roy H. Ginsberg, The Joseph C. Palamountain Chair in Government; Beau Breslin
Associate Professor: Beau Breslin, Timothy W. Burns, Katherine E. Graney, Ronald P. Seyb, Natalie Taylor, Robert C. Turner
Assistant Professors: Flagg Taylor, Natalie Taylor
Visiting Assistant Professor: Pat Ferraioli
Lecturer: Sumita Pahwa
The Government department seeks to instill in its students
a lively interest in politics, in how political systems work
and how we can make them work better, in contemporary political
issues, in international relations and foreign policy, in
political theory, and in the law. We offer a comprehensive
program that reflects the broad discipline of political science.
Students take three required introductory courses followed by
intermediate and advanced courses in four areas:
American government, comparative government, international relations,
and political theory. The major is designed to serve students
who wish to concentrate in a particular area, those who aspire
to go on to graduate school, and those who want merely
to explore the field of politics.
Our main goal is to help students think analytically and critically
about political issues. We do this by developing students' knowledge
of the four subdisciplines of political science, by cultivating in them
the analytical skills they need to understand political issues,
and by enhancing their abilities to assess critically political situations
and problems from both empirical and normative perspectives.
In terms of knowledge, we aim to provide students with the historical
and contemporary information they need to understand national
and international political structures, behaviors, and ideas.
In terms of analytical skills, we seek to offer students
the methodological and technical training they require to read texts carefully;
collect, analyze, and interpret data; and communicate their conclusions
effectively and elegantly. In terms of critical abilities, we teach students
to examine political issues and problems from both empirical
and ethical viewpoints as a first step toward developing policy recommendations
that can improve political participation, processes, and outcomes.
THE GOVERNMENT MAJOR: Requirements for a major in government are a minimum of
nine courses and thirty credit hours (classes prior to 2012),
or ten courses and thirty-three credit hours (Class of 2012 and beyond).
These courses include:
GO101,
102, and
103 (GO102 is required for Class of 2012 and after.)
At least one course in each of the following four areas:
Three additional government courses totaling at least 9 credits, or GO383 or GO384.
Note: To fulfill college maturity-level requirements, at least six credits of 300-level
government course must be taken in the senior year.
GOVERNMENT WRITING IN THE MAJOR REQUIREMENTTHE WRITING REQUIREMENT IN THE GOVERNMENT MAJOR: The Government Department at Skidmore College is committed to helping its students become skilled writers. Recognizing that an important part of learning to write well in political science and government is learning to write well overall, the Government Department places considerable emphasis on both quantity and quality of writing opportunities in our courses and has adopted a wide-reaching and thorough set of Standards and Expectations for Written Assignments in Government and a Uniform Code of Notation for Providing Feedback on Written Work. Students in Government Department classes exepectexpect to be held to the expectations and standards established in these documents. Thus, by successfully completing the requirements for the Government Major, students fulfill the Writing Requirement in Government.
INTERDEPARTMENTAL MAJORS: In conjunction with the relevant
departments, the Government Department offers majors in political
economy, government-history, government-philosophy, government-sociology,
business-government, government-French, government-German,
and government-Spanish. See Interdepartmental Majors.
The department participates in the international affairs minor.
HONORS: To be recommended for honors in government, students must meet
the college requirements of a GPA of 3.0 overall and 3.5
in the major. Students must also receive at least an A- on
a senior thesis in government. Specific requirements
for the senior thesis are established by the department.
A senior thesis in government is also required for interdepartmental majors.
THE GOVERNMENT MINOR (for the Class of 2012 and after): The government minor consists of six
courses with a minimum of eighteen credits to be determined
in consultation with the department chair and the student's
government-faculty advisor, but must include
two of the following: GO101, 102, or 103.
Additionally, at least two of these courses must be taken at the 300 level. Students who enroll in GO383 or GO384 may only count 6 credits from these courses towards their Government minor. (For Class of 2010 and 2011, the requirements are five courses, with a minimum of eighteen credits, at least two of the courses at the 300 level.)
PI SIGMA ALPHA, Tau Gamma Chapter. Founded
in 1920 as the national political science honor society, Pi
Sigma Alpha receives into membership students of political
science and related disciplines who attain high standards
of scholarship and academic distinction. Eligibility requirements
include: at least six government and/or government-history (GH) courses;
a combined 3.5 GPA from all of these courses; and a 3.25 cumulative
GPA.
GO 101. INTRODUCTION TO
AMERICAN GOVERNMENT 3
An analysis of United States national government with emphasis on constitutionalism, the
presidency, Congress, and the judiciary. Reference will also
be made to the impact of political parties and pressure groups
on the contemporary political system. (Fulfills social sciences
requirement.) R. Turner, B. Breslin,
R. Seyb, N. Taylor
GO 102. INTRODUCTION TO POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY 3
Study of seminal works in political philosophy. Students will examine
texts by thinkers such as Thucydides, Plato, Artistotle, Machiavelli,
Bacon, Rousseau, Wollstonecraft, Marx, Tocqueville, Madison,
Jefferson, and Nietzche in an effort to uncover both classical and
modern answers to enduring human questions. We seek to find, through
these texts, comprehensive and consistent answers to the question of
human happiness and its relation to political life, justice,
friendship, obligation, regimes, political and moral virtue or
excellence, science, and religious faith. Students will learn how to
read texts carefully, to think critically, and to write well. Not open
to students who have taken GO303 or 304. (Fulfills humanities requirement.) T. Burns, F. Taylor
GO 103. INTRODUCTION TO COMPARATIVE AND INTERNATIONAL POLITICS 3
A survey of the key concepts and principles of comparative politics
and international relations. Issues covered include state building and
state failure; the functioning of democratic and non-democratic
regimes and the ideologies that support them; the changing nature of
the international system; the causes of war and search for peace; and
problems of national and transnational security, such as terrorism,
globalization, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and
environmental challenges. (Fulfills social sciences requirement.) R. Ginsberg, K. Graney, S. Hoffman, A. Vacs
GO 201H. PRINCIPLES
OF INTERNATIONAL POLITICS 4
A survey of the patterns of
relations among nation-states from the Congress of Vienna
to the 1960s. The course will introduce key concepts and frameworks
to explain international politics, and identify major factors
that cause and prevent war. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of
instructor. R. Ginsberg
GO 203. COMPARATIVE EUROPEAN POLITICS 3
A survey of the governmental and political features of France,
Germany, the United Kingdom, and other European states.
Prerequisite:GO101 or
103 or permission of
instructor. R. Ginsberg
GO 209. THE
LATIN AMERICAN PUZZLE 4
A comprehensive analysis of
Latin American political, social, and economic processes and
institutions from a multidisciplinary perspective. The course
examines Latin America's political development, ethnic problems,
gender roles, and economic strategies as well as the changing
role of institutions such as the state, socioeconomic organizations,
the church, and the military. It considers how Latin American
societies changed after independence while noting those political,
social, and economic aspects that remain unchanged. The objective
of the course is to provide a critical examination of the
evolution and transformation of Latin America while offering
the analytical elements necessary to interpret similar processes
in other geographical areas and historical periods. A. Vacs
GO 211. COURTS,
POLITICS, AND JUDICIAL PROCESS IN THE UNITED STATES 3
A survey of the role of courts
in contemporary American politics and society. Students will
explore the organization and functions of state and federal
courts and their relation to other political institutions
and to society generally. Topics will include the decision-making
processes of judges, attorneys and litigants in various judicial
settings, the role and impact of courts as policy-makers,
the selection and recruitment of judicial personnel, access
to judicial power, courts and the media, and contemporary
trends in litigation. B. Breslin
GO 213. COMPARATIVE CONSTITUTIONAL SYSTEMS 4
An examination of several different constitutional systems from around
the world, using cases such as the United States, Israel, Canada,
Poland and South Africa. All constitutional systems are unique; but
when studied comparatively, they help illuminate some of the
fundamental principles of modern politics: constitutionalism,
democracy, justice, citizenship, liberty, and community. As part of
the course, students will consider how constitutional structures
influence ethnic, religious and personal
identities. (Fulfills social science requirement.) B. Breslin
GO 219. POLITICAL
ECONOMY OF EUROPEAN INTEGRATION 3
An introductory survey of how
economics, history, law, and politics together help explain
the growth and development of the European Union over time.
The course focuses on common institutions and decision-making,
internal and external policies, issues of national and European
identities, and place of Europe in the wider world. R. Ginsberg
GO 222. STATE
AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT 4
The study of state and local
government, politics, and policies within the United States
federal system. Emphasis on connections between government
structure, politics, and the economy, with special attention
to questions of public policy. R. Turner
GO 223. CURRENT
ISSUES IN PUBLIC POLICY 4
An analysis of the public policy
process through an examination of several current policy issues.
The course will begin with a study of the fundamentals of
policy formation, and will then investigate specific policy
issues. Issues may include AIDS, drugs, affirmative action,
and welfare. Students will participate in a mock legislative
session. Prerequisite:GO101 or permission of
instructor. N. Taylor
GO 224. AMERICAN
INDIAN POLITICS AND POLICY 3
Examines contemporary American Indian politics and policy. Students analyze the tensions that exist between tribal nations and federal and state governments around such issues as sovereignty, treaty rights, jurisdiction, taxation, land claims, sacred lands, gaming and citizenship. Particular attention will be paid to the cultural and historical roots of these tensions. Prerequisite: GO101(Designated a Cultural Diversity Course.) P. Ferraioli
GO 225. MILITARY
AND POLITICAL LESSONS FROM WORLD WAR II 4
A selective study of the crucial
events of the twentieth century aimed at finding appropriate
lessons for people who will live in the twenty-first century.
Topics include: importance of incorporating technological
advances into military doctrine, how "blitzkrieg"
offensives work and how to defeat them, and advances in aerial
and undersea warfare from 1939 to the present day. Interprets
World War II as what military planners now call a "Revolution
in Military Affairs," shows how that RMA still governs
strategy and tactics today, and how the next RMA is already
visible on the horizon. Prerequisite: One of the following: GO101, 103, 201, HI105, 106, 122, SO101, or permission of
instructor. S. Hoffmann
GO 227. FROM GENGHIS KHAN TO GORBACHEV: POWER AND POLITICS IN RUSSIAN HISTORY 3-4
A comparison of traditional
Russian society with Soviet society after 1917. The course
will focus first on the political, economic, and social characteristics
of the authoritarian tsarist empire. Then we will turn to
the revolutionary changes initiated by Lenin, the terror of
Stalin, the reforms of Khrushchev, and the stagnation under
Brezhnev.
The course will focus in particular on changes in political
structures and participation, economic organization and equality, and
cultural life, including gender roles.
Readings will include novels, memoirs, and press
translations. K. Graney
GO 228. UNITED
STATES FOREIGN POLICY IN A CHANGING WORLD 4
This course examines the development
and current features of American foreign policy focusing on
the international challenges and opportunities faced by the
United States after the end of the Cold War. It analyzes some
of the major patterns of United States foreign policy, reviews
some important interpretations and methodological approaches
to the study of United States foreign policy, discusses the
ideological components of these policies, examines the foreign
policy actors and the decision making process in which they
participate, and evaluates the changing objectives and circumstances
shaping recent American international initiatives. Special
attention will be devoted to the impact of the end of the
Cold War and the rise of interdependence and globalization
on recent United States economic, strategic, and environmental
foreign policies as well as in the formulation of specific
approaches to different regions of the world. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of
instructor. R. Ginsberg, A. Vacs
GO 229. INTERNATIONAL
LAW 3
An introduction to and survey of the history, principles, instruments,
theory, and practice of international law. Students explore the reach
of and limits to international law with regard to the use of force,
arms control and disarmament, human rights, and criminal justice in
light of transnational crime and terrorism. Prerequisite:GO103 or IA101. (Fulfills social science requirement.) R. Ginsberg
GO 231. ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS AND
POLICY 4
An exploration of how political, economic, and social interests contend for
influence and exert power in the realm of environmental policy.
We look at the ways in which local, regional, national, and international
governmental institutions, nongovernmental organizations and interests groups,
and the public interact in defining environmental problems, and formulating
and implementing solutions. The course uses case studies on timely environmental
issues ranging from cleaning up toxic waste pollution to protecting endangered
species to understanding the clashes between science and politics at local,
state, federal, and international levels. Prerequisite:GO101, ES100,
or permission of instructor. (Fulfills social science requirement.) R. Turner
GO 236. AMERICAN
POLITICAL THOUGHT 4
An examination of the writings
of selected thinkers in the American political tradition.
The course will place particular emphasis on the thought of
the framers and on the response of succeeding political leaders
and thinkers to the framers' principles. Prerequisite:GO101 or 102, or permission of
instructor. T. Burns, N. Taylor
GO 239. NATIONALISM
AND POLITICS IN THE MIDDLE EAST 4
Introduction to the basic problems
and trends of the major "confrontation" and oil
states of the Middle East, including leadership, instability,
modernization, nationalism, and war. Covers Egypt, Israel,
Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Turkey, and the
Palestinians. In-depth coverage of the Arab-Israeli conflict. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of instructor. (Designated a non-Western culture
course.) S. Hoffmann
GO 240. POLITICAL
MODERNIZATION: THE CASE OF INDIA 3
A study of problems inherent
in modernizing political systems, as exemplified by the development
of mass politics in India, the relationship of political toeconomic
development in this major "third world" nation,
and the rise of Indian nationalism under the nonviolent concepts
of Mahatma Gandhi. The course provides background necessary
for a sound understanding of India's movement to independence
as a modern nation-state. (Designated a non-Western culture
course.) S. Hoffmann
GO 241. ETHNIC
CONFLICT AND THE GLOBAL SYSTEM 4
An exploration of the major
approaches to the study and understanding of ethnic conflict
and nationalism. Students examine sociobiological and psychological
"primordialist" theories, realist and instrumentalist
approaches, and normative/ideational explanations. These theoretical
approaches will be illustrated through case studies, which
may include: "troubles" in Northern Ireland; sovereignty
movements in Quebec and Chechnya; ethnic violence in Indonesia,
Nigeria, and the former Soviet bloc; indigenous people's movements
in Mexico; separatism, racism, and anti-immigrant violence
in Europe; or others. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of instructor. (Fulfills social sciences
requirement.) K. Graney
GO 242. LIBERTY, COMMERCE AND THE MORAL LIFE 3 Examines the distinctive understandings of liberty in the midst of the emergence of a new world of commerce in the 18th century. Students will focus on the writings of David Hume and Adam Smith comparing their ideas against the backdrop of other thinkers of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries such as Locke, Hobbes, Mandeville, and Rousseau. Students will also judge the debates and disagreements among key figures in modern political philosophy. What are the origins of political liberty? Is vice or virtue the animating force of what Smith called the “system of natural liberty?” Prerequisite: GO 102 F. Taylor
GO 251. TOPICS
IN POLITICAL SCIENCE 3
Topically organized courses
focused on selected problems, areas, and issues of special
interest in political science at the intermediate level. Topics
vary from year to year, depending upon specialization and
research interests of the instructor. Students may take the
course more than once, with the approval of the department,
if the topic is different each time. Prerequisite: for A and B, GO103;
for C, GO101;
for D, for the class of 2012 and after, GO102. A. Comparative Politics B. International Relations C. American Politics D. Political Theory
GO 252. THE
PSYCHOLOGY OF POLITICS 3
An examination of how citizens'
and public officials' attitudes, values, beliefs, experiences,
and cognitive capacities shape political behavior and influence
the actions of American political institutions. Topics include
political socialization, political personality, attitude formation
and change, and political decision-making. Prerequisite:GO101 or permission of
instructor. R. Seyb
GO 299. PROFESSIONAL
INTERNSHIP IN GOVERNMENT 3
Internship in government, political,
or legal offices for students with appropriate academic preparation.
The intern is required to produce a substantial research paper
related to the area of the internship, on a topic approved
by the faculty sponsor and the on-site supervisor. Prerequisite:GO101 or 103 (depending on the area of the internship) and one other government
course in the area of the internship (American, comparative,
or international).
GO 301. CONTEMPORARY
INTERNATIONAL POLITICS AND LAW 4
An analysis of changes in international
politics and law from the Cold War to the present. Topics
include regional conflict; multilateral peacekeeping; proliferation
of weapons of mass destruction; international law; human rights;
and the structure, function, and role of international organizations
and nongovernmental organizations. Students actively engage
in global problem-solving exercises utilizing theoretical
concepts, case studies, policy briefs, and policy debates.
This course may be taken in conjunction with participation
in Model United Nations, Model European Union, or other intercollegiate
simulations. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of
instructor. R. Ginsberg
GO 303. CLASSICAL
POLITICAL THOUGHT 4
Political thought of Plato
and Aristotle. This course will treat the character of the
political thought that Socrates initiated. Consideration will
be given to the reasons for the original tension between wisdom
and politics and to the manner in which theory can inform
practice. Selected Greek comedies and tragedies, as well as
Roman and medieval political thought may also be considered. Prerequisite: for the class of 2012 and after, GO102. T. Burns
GO 304H. MODERN
POLITICAL THOUGHT 4
Political thought of the Renaissance
to that of the late nineteenth century. Selected thinkers
include Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Wollstonecraft,
Hegel, Marx, and Nietzsche. Particular emphasis will be placed
on the aspirations of liberalism and the criticism these aspirations
inspired. Prerequisite: for the class of 2012 and after, GO102. T. Burns
GO 305. INTEREST
GROUPS AND PUBLIC POLICY 3
An examination of political
theories and contemporary practices of interest groups in
the making of public policy in the United States. The course
includes a review of theoretical approaches to interest groups,
models of policy-making, a survey of groups active in selected
policy areas, and techniques of influence. Prerequisite:GO101 or permission of
instructor. R. Turner
GO 308. CONTEMPORARY
POLITICAL THOUGHT 4
Political thought of the twentieth
century. Primary attention will be given to the influence
of Nietzsche as reflected in existentialism, post-modernism,
and post-modern feminism. Additional topics might include
the influence of Freudianism on political thought, the debate
between Rawls and Nozick on social justice, and the claims
of communitarianism. Recommended preparation:GO303 or 304. T. Burns
GO 309. LATIN
AMERICA AND THE UNITED STATES 3
An examination of the relations
between Latin America and the United States, including their
political, strategic, and economic aspects. The course reviews
some of the major theoretical interpretations of these relations
and analyzes some crucial historical events and developments
before focusing on crucial contemporary topics including collective
security, revolutionary change, imperialism and nationalism,
economic issues, human rights and democracy, drug traffic,
and migration. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of
instructor. A. Vacs
GO 311. CONSTITUTIONAL
LAW 4
A survey of the American constitutional
system emphasizing sources and uses of governmental power,
the political role of the Supreme Court, the Court's jurisdiction,
and the allocation of powers between the federal government
and the states. B. Breslin
GO 312. CONTEMPORARY
CONSTITUTIONAL PROBLEMS 3
An examination of selected
constitutional issues, including the proper role of the Supreme
Court in our political system. The course covers theories
of judicial review, as well as many of the complexities of
modern civil rights and civil liberties. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. B. Breslin
GO 313. POLITICS
OF CONTEMPORARY UNITED STATES SOCIAL MOVEMENTS 4
A study of the civil rights,
black nationalist, black power, black liberation, American
Indian, women's, and queer movements in the United States.
The course will look at the history of the emergence of these
movements and the impact these movements have had on public
policy and social change. Particular consideration will be
given to movement ideology. Students will prepare a research
design and a final paper. Open to sophomores, juniors, and
seniors. N. Taylor
GO 314. CIVIL
LIBERTIES 4
An analysis of recent Supreme
Court decisions interpreting our civil liberties, civil rights,
guarantee of due process of law, and equal protection of the
laws. B. Breslin
GO 315. IMMIGRATION POLITICS AND POLICY 4
An examination of immigration and the issues arising from it-the reshaping of cities, suburbs and rural areas, and the altering of racial dynamics, labor markets, politics and culture in the U.S. Students will address varied topics such as the historical evolution of American immigration policy, theories of immigration, the economic costs and benefits of immigration, the assimilation of recent immigrants, and the future direction of U.S. immigration policy. Prerequisite: GO 101. R. Turner
GO 316. PUBLIC
ADMINISTRATION 4
An examination of the administration
of public policy in the United States, with attention to government
organization, budgeting, personnel, procurement, regulation,
due process, intergovernmental relations, and reform. Students
will select one federal agency or program for study in depth. Prerequisite:GO101 or permission of
instructor. R. Turner
GO 319. WHAT
THE UNITED STATES DOES WRONG IN THE WORLD: VIEWS FROM INDIA
AND ANSWERS FROM WASHINGTON 4
Outside the United States,
and outside Western Europe, the role of the United States
in the world is often called "dominant," "hegemonic,"
"discriminatory," and even "trigger-happy."
One source for this critique is India, a democracy now seeking
great power status in the world. Many informed Indian strategic
thinkers believe that the United States will block the rise
of new great powers by such means as preventing the international
movement of high technology. Is there substance to these changes?
Can the U.S. government make a persuasive reply?
These are the central issues of the course. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of
instructor. (Designated a Cultural Diversity course.) S. Hoffmann
GH 322. THE
HISTORY AND POLITICAL THOUGHT OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION 3
The creation of a new nation,
1763–1789. This course will give special attention to the
political ideas which gave direction to the American Revolution
and the Constitution. Prerequisite:GO101 or permission of
instructor.
GO 323. DISSIDENT
POLITICAL THOUGHT 4
This course will examine the writings of several dissidents of
the twentieth century (including Milosz, Solzhenitsyn, and
Havel) and their unique contributions to the enduring themes
of political theory. Prerequisite: GO103 or one political theory course;
for the class of 2012 and after, GO102. F. Taylor
GO 327. POLITICS
IN RUSSIA AND THE SOVIET SUCCESSOR STATES 4
An analysis of politics in
Russia and in the post-communist republics of the former Soviet
Union. After analyzing the disintegration of the U.S.S.R.
under Gorbachev, the course will focus on the attempts since
1991 to create democratic political systems. Special attention
will be paid to elections, constitutions, political party
formation, parliaments, leadership strategies, and nationalism. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of
instructor. K. Graney
GO 328. NATIONALISM,
COMMUNISM, AND DEMOCRACY: POLITICS IN EAST EUROPE 4
East European politics from
1918 to the present. The course analyzes democracy and fascism
before World War II, the rise and fall of communism, and the
rebirth of democracy and nationalism after 1989. Major topics
include modernization and political development, nationalism
and political culture, one-party dictatorships, and multiparty
presidential and parliamentary democracies. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of
instructor. K. Graney
GO 331. STATE AND LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
POLICY 4
An introduction to the concepts, ideas, and strategies employed
in the pursuit of state and local economic development. We will survey and critically review
the range of strategies commonly used to improve the economic prospects of neighborhoods, cities,
and regions, including luring corporations with tax breaks, emulating Silicon Valley, promoting
high technology, building sports stadiums and prisons, and community development. This course
will rely heavily on interviews of policymakers and analysis of state policies and problems to
help students appreciate the importance and complexity of economic development policy. A
background in economics is not required. Prerequisite:GO101 or permission of
instructor. R. Turner
GO 332. THE AMERICAN PARTY SYSTEM 4
An examination of the influence of our political parties at critical
moments of the formation of the American democracy. The course
explores how political parties emerged almost immediately after the
ratification of the Constitution and engaged in public debate on the
meaning of republican government as well as the meaning of citizen
participation and representation. Students will learn to appreciate
the distinction between American political development and the
historical study of politics. They will also become familiar with
party realignment and be able to recognize the unique character of the
elections of 1800, 1828, 1860, 1896, and 1932. Students will also learn to
appreciate the challenge of finding the appropriate role for political
parties in our democracy. Prerequisite:GO101 or permission of
instructor. N. Taylor
GO 333. AMERICAN
POLITICAL RESEARCH 4
A senior seminar in which each
student will conduct individualized research into a topic
or question in contemporary American politics. Each student
will prepare a research design, class progress reports, and
a final paper. Special attention will be given to primary
sources, such as government documents, and to computer-based
research techniques and resources, such as Internet and data
bases. Prerequisite: Senior government major status,
or permission of the
instructor. R. Turner
GO 334. THE
UNITED STATES PRESIDENCY 4
An analysis of the Presidential
role in United States politics. The course will examine the
expansion of the constitutional and political powers of the
President in the light of contemporary politics. Prerequisite:GO101 or permission of
instructor. R. Seyb
GO 338. INTERNATIONAL
DIPLOMATIC NEGOTIATIONS 4
An exploration of the techniques
and practice of diplomatic negotiations as a peaceful way
of resolving international disputes. The course addresses
a variety of international negotiating problems (political,
strategic, environmental, and economic) that involve different
kinds of actors (great, intermediate, and small powers; intergovernmental
and nongovernmental organizations; and private groups) from
various parts of the world in diverse settings (global, regional,
and local). Theoretical materials and case studies are used
to gain insight into the issues and questions involved in
diplomatic negotiations. Prerequisite:GO103 or 201 or permission of
instructor. A. Vacs
GO 339. INTERNATIONAL
POLITICAL ECONOMY AND THE ENVIRONMENT 4
Explores changes in international
politics that lend more weight to economic and environmental
issues and analyzes the responses to those changes of developed
and developing countries and regional, international, and
nongovernmental organizations. Students examine different
theoretical perspectives on international political economy
issues, engage in problem-solving exercises, and conduct a
major research paper or prepare for participation in Model
United Nations, Model European Union, or other simulation
exercises. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of
instructor. R. Ginsberg, A. Vacs
GO 340. THE
INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS REGIME: PROMISE AND PERIL 4
An examination of the philosophical, religious and legal bases of the
modern international human rights regime. Students will explore such
questions as: How did the concept of human rights evolve? How do
states, international and non-governmental organizations, and
individuals try to provide for and protect human rights around the
world? When do they succeed and why do they fail? What is one's
individual responsibility regarding the international human rights
regime? Students will work with the primary texts that form the
international human rights regime and will engage in research projects
that examine the practice of human rights provision and violation
around the world. Prerequisites:GO103 or IA101. K. Graney
GO 341. FRENCH LIBERAL TRADITION 3 Examines the unique strain in French political philosophy which confronts the origins and impact of liberal democratic theory. Students will engage thoughtfully and critically with an underappreciated tradition in French political philosophy and will gain an awareness of both the positive and negative potentialities of modern democratic life. Students will encounter the well-known triad of Montesquieu, Constant, and Tocqueville as well as contemporary French thinkers such as Bertrand de Jouvenel and Pierre Manent. Prerequisite: GO 102 F. Taylor
GO 344. COMPARATIVE
POLITICS AND CULTURE: INDIA AND JAPAN 4
A comparison of the political
systems of the two major Asian democracies, India and Japan,
with an emphasis on the role of culture in explaining political
behavior and economic development. Special attention is paid
to the problems being experienced by the Indian and Japanese
versions of parliamentary democracy, and to the economic policies
favored by the two governments. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of instructor.
(Designated a non-Western culture course.) S. Hoffmann
GO 351. TOPICS
IN POLITICAL THOUGHT 3, 4
A seminar devoted to a particular
issue or a particular thinker. Topics will vary from year
to year. Recent topics have included "The 'Public' and
'Private' in Modern Political Thought," "Machiavelli's
Political Thought," and "Shakespeare's Rome."
The course may be repeated with the approval of the department. Prerequisite: for the class of 2012 and after, GO102. Recommended preparation:GO303 or 304. The Department
GO 352. WOMEN
AND THE LAW 4
The rights of women under constitutional
and statute law in the United States. Examines changing patterns
in the legal status of women, legal protection against public
and private discrimination, and the effectiveness of law as
an instrument of social change. Students will participate
in a moot court Prerequisite:GO101 or permission of
instructor. The Department
GO 353. SEX
AND POWER 4
Examines changing patterns
in the regulation of sex, sexuality, and representations of
sex and sexuality under constitutional and statute law in
the United States. Attention will be focused on how these
regulations support or challenge power relationships. Students
will participate in a moot court. Prerequisite:GO101 or permission of instructor. The Department
GO 354. FEMINIST
POLITICAL THOUGHT 3
A critical exploration of contemporary
feminist political thought. The course will focus on the different
conceptions of subjectivity found within feminist thought
and the implications of those conceptions for political society.
Readings will come from a wide range of approaches including
postmodernism, psychoanalytic theory, and standpoint theory. Prerequisite:GO101 or 103, or permission of
instructor; for the class of 2012 and after, GO102.
N. Taylor
GO 355. AFRICAN
POLITICS 4
An analysis of states and societies
of Africa during the colonial and independent periods. Topics
to be covered include: the effect of colonialism on state
structures, social groupings, and ethnic identities; regime
types and domestic politics; pressures to populate regions
that are not easily habitable; the effects of disease, starvation,
and natural disaster on the continent's demographics; and
public policies to master water and land. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of instructor.
(Designated a non-Western culture course.) C. Whann
GO 356. AFRICA
IN INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS 4
Africans and outsiders with
interests in Africa have been concerned with matters of land,
water, plants, and other natural resources. State and nonstate
actors have sought to manage, control, or extract them for
economic gain or use them as weapons of political control.
Topics to be covered in this course include the political
economy of conflict; human and environmental control; African
cash crop production, mining, and oil drilling; the politics
of famine and drought; and regional and international control
of water. These topics will be analyzed in the context of
theories of international relations and foreign policy making. Prerequisite:GO103, IA101 or consent of instructor.
(Designated a non-Western culture course.) C. Whann
GO 357. SEXING
GLOBAL POLITICS: GENDER AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 4
An exploration of how the theory
and practice of international relations is gendered. Students
examine how the fundamental international relations concepts
of security and defense are defined in gendered ways, and
how the practice of diplomacy, war-making, and international
economic development are gendered. Special focus on the environmental
impacts of international relations' gendered past and present,
and how women's and environmental organizations work together
to challenge traditional patterns of global governance. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of the
instructor. K. Graney
GO 358. CARIBBEAN POLITICS 4
An advanced course investigating political structures and processes in
the Caribbean region. Explores the impact of domestic and
international factors on political institutions and civil society in
the small countries of the region. Themes addressed in the course
include culture, ethnicity, crops and other resources, migration and
tourism, colonialism and international intervention, drug smuggling
and money laundering. The course also examines how climate and weather
shape politics and political economy. Prerequisite:IA101 or GO103. (Designated a Cultural Diversity course.) C. Whann
GO 362. POLITICS
OF THE CONGRESS 4
A seminar devoted to the examination
of the congressional system through research, class discussion,
and written work. Prerequisite:GO101 or permission of
instructor. R. Seyb
GO 365. TOPICS
IN COMPARATIVE POLITICS 4
Selected issues, regions, and
research in comparative politics. Topics will vary from year
to year, depending upon specialization and research interests
of the instructor. Possible topics: post-authoritarian transitions
in Eastern Europe; party politics in Israel. Students may
take the course more than once, with the approval of the department,
if the topic is different each time. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of the
instructor. The Department
GO 366. TOPICS
IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 4
Selected issues, regions, and
research in international relations. Topics will vary from
year to year, depending upon specialization and research interests
of the instructor. Possible topics: Commonwealth of Independent
States (former Soviet Union), conflict and compromise; United
States and Japan, allies in collision. Students may take the
course more than once, with the approval of the department,
if the topic is different each time. Prerequisite:GO103 or permission of the
instructor. The Department
GO 367. TOPICS
IN AMERICAN POLITICS 4
Selected issues, periods, and
research in American politics. Topics will vary from year
to year, depending upon the specialization and research interests
of the instructor. Possible topics include: urban government,
politics of AIDS, political role of the labor movement, etc.
Students may take the course more than once, with the approval
of the department, if the topic is different each time. Prerequisite:GO101 or permission of the
instructor. The Department
GO 371. INDEPENDENT
STUDY 3
An opportunity for qualified
majors to do special studies in the field of political science
beyond or outside of the regular departmental offerings. The
student's study program is supervised by a member of the department.
Written work and regular periodic discussion meetings are
required. The Department
GO 374. SENIOR THESIS PREP 3
Independent research under the direction of a member of the
department, undertaken in the fall of the senior year by students
writing a senior thesis. Students should consult department
guidelines regarding the senior thesis, which specify the
expectations for this course. Permission of instructor required. The Department
GO 375. SENIOR
THESIS 4
Optional for government majors.
Particularly recommended for majors wishing to develop a problem
or theme in depth and for those working toward professional
careers or in preparing for graduate work. The student's work
is supervised by a member of the department. Individual and,
if appropriate, group conferences will be held during the
term. Written work and regular periodic discussion meetings
are required. Proposals for the senior thesis must be prepared
in consultation with a government faculty thesis-sponsor,
approved by the sponsor and the student's advisor, and submitted
to the chair for approval during the semester preceding the
one in which the student wishes to work on the thesis. Application
deadlines precede registration periods; see the department
calendar for specific dates. The Department
GO 383. New York State Assembly Program 15 A semester-long intensive field experience. Students spend a minimum of 30 hours a week working in Albany for an Assembly Member and their research staff, conducting research, responding to constituent mail, bill tracking, bill memo preparation and attending committee and public hearings, among other tasks. The program also has an academic seminar component, Policy in the NY State Legislative Process, and includes other weekly meetings (Issue Forums), as well as mandatory participation in a Mock Legislative Session at the end of the semester. S/U only. Prerequisites: GO 101 and junior or senior standing. GO 222 recommended. B. Turner
GO 384. New York State Senate Program 15 A semester-long intensive field experience. Students spend a minimum of 30 hours a week working in Albany for a Senate member and their research staff, conducting research, responding to constituent mail, bill tracking, bill memo preparation and attending committee and public hearings, among other tasks. The program also has an academic seminar component, and includes other weekly meetings (Issue Forums), as well as mandatory participation in a Mock Legislative Session at the end of the semester. S/U only. Prerequisites: GO 101 and junior or senior standing. GO 222 recommended. B. Turner
GO 399. PROFESSIONAL
INTERNSHIP IN GOVERNMENT 3, 6, or 9
Internship experience at an
advanced level in government, political, or legal offices
for students with substantial academic preparation. The intern
must produce a major research paper related to the area of
the internship, on a topic approved by the faculty sponsor
and the on-site supervisor. Prerequisite:GO101 (if internship is in the area of national politics or a legal
office), or GO103 (if internship is in the area of comparative
or international politics), and at least two advanced courses
in the appropriate field for the internship.
