Political Science
Office: 110 Rockefeller Hall, Website:
departments.vassar.edu/~polisci/polisci_homepage.html,
Phone: (845) 437-5560, e-mail: polisci@vassar.edu
Professors: Richard Born, M. Glen Johnson, Sidney
Plotkinab, Stephen R. Rock (Chair), Mary L.
Shanley, Peter G. Stillman, Adelaide H. Villmoare;
Associate Professors: Luke C. Harrisa,
Leah Haus; Assistant Professors: Andrew Davison,
Katherine Hite, Timothy Longman, Himadeep Muppidi;
Adjunct Professors: Richard Reitano,* Wilfrid
Rumble*.
Requirements for Concentration: 10 units,
including two of the four introductory courses (Political
Science 140, 150, 160, 170); 1 unit at the 100- or 200-level
in each of the four major fields of political science, i.e.,
American Politics, Comparative Politics, International
Politics, Political Theory; 2 units of graded 300-level work
(including one 300-level seminar to be taken in senior
year). No more than 1 unit of field work may be counted
toward the major. After declaring a major, no course in
political science may be elected NRO.
Transfer students and students taking academic leaves
of absence: A minimum of 6 graded units in the political
science major must be taken at Vassar.
Senior-Year Requirement: One 300-level
seminar.
Recommendation: Political Analysis (207) is highly
recommended to all majors because it deals specifically with
a basic methodology of political science.
Sequence of Courses: The department recommends
that students take Modern Political Thought (270) before
electing subsequent 200- and 300-level political theory
courses. There is no requirement to specialize in one of the
four fields, although specialization is permitted.
Advisers: The department.
Correlate Sequences in Political Science: Four
correlate sequences are available in political science: one
each in American Politics, Comparative Politics,
International Politics, and Political Theory. 6 political
science units are required to complete each sequence. With
the approval of the sequence adviser, up to 2 units of
political science credit transferred from outside Vassar may
count toward the completion of the sequence.With the
approval of the sequence adviser, a maximum of 1 unit of
fieldwork may count toward completion of the sequence. Up to
1 unit of work elected NRO, taken before declaring a
correlate sequence, may count toward completion of the
sequence. After declaring a correlate sequence, no course
elected NRO may count toward completion of the sequence.
Correlate Sequence in American Politics: Political
Science 140; three courses at the 200-level in the subfield
of American politics; one additional related 200-level
course (to be determined by the correlate sequence adviser
and the student); and a 300-level course in the subfield of
American politics. Sequence Advisers: Mr. Plotkin, Ms.
Villmoare.
Correlate Sequence in Comparative Politics:
Political Science 150; three courses at the 200-level in
the subfield of comparative politics; one additional related
200-level course (to be determined by the correlate sequence
adviser and the student); and a 300-level course in the
subfield of comparative politics. Sequence Adviser: Mr.
Longman.
Correlate Sequence in International Politics:
Political Science 160; three courses at the 200-level in the
subfield of international politics; one additional related
200-level course (to be determined by the correlate sequence
adviser and the student); and a 300-level course in the
subfield of international politics. Sequence Adviser: Ms.
Haus.
Correlate Sequence in Political Theory: Political
Science 170; three courses at the 200-level in the subfield
of political theory; one additional related 200-level course
(to be determined by the correlate sequence adviser and the
student); and a 300-level course in the subfield of
political theory. Sequence Advisers: Ms. Shanley, Mr.
Stillman.
I. Introductory
The courses listed below are introductions to the four
major fields of political science: American Politics,
Comparative Politics, International Politics, and Political
Theory. First-year students would normally elect one course
each semester. Two introductory courses are required of
majors, and it is possible and sometimes desirable to take
all four. Introductory courses may be taken either
semester.
140a or b. American Politics (1)
An analysis of the American political system and the
structures and processes by which public policies are
formulated and implemented. Attention is focused upon
decision making in institutions of American national
government, such as Congress, the Presidency, and the
Supreme Court, and upon political behaviorpublic opinion,
voting, and other forms of political activity. Attention is
also given to evaluation of selected public policies and
contemporary issues, and questions of political change. Mr.
Born, Mr. Harris, Mr. Plotkin, Ms. Villmoare.
150a or b. Comparative Politics (1)
An examination of the political systems of selected
foreign societies chosen to illustrate major types: Western
and non-Western, democratic and authoritarian, and mature
and developing. The political system is seen to include
formal institutions of government, such as parliaments and
bureaucracies; political parties and other forms of group
life; those aspects of the history and social and economic
structure of a society that are relevant to politics; and
political beliefs, values, and ideologies. Special attention
is given to the question of political change and
development, whether through revolutionary or constitutional
process. Ms. Hite, Mr. Longman.
160a or b. International Politics (1)
An examination of major issues in international politics,
including national and international security and production
and distribution of wealth, along with selected global
issues such as human rights, ethnic nationalism and ethnic
conflict, migration and refugees, environmental degradation
and protection, and the impact of developments in
communication and information technologies. Attention is
also given to the origins, evolution, and the future of the
contemporary international system, as well as to competing
theoretical perspectives on world politics. Ms. Haus, Mr.
Rock, Mr. Muppidi.
170a or b. Political Theory (1)
An introduction to the nature, types, and problems of
political theory. The core of the readings consists of
selections from the classic works of Western political
philosophy. The relevance of the ideas of the classical
political philosophers to current political developments and
scholarship is emphasized. Mr. Davison, Ms. Shanley.
Open to juniors and seniors by permission only.
II. Intermediate
Prerequisite: 1 unit of introductory political science,
or by permission of instructor which is generally granted to
juniors and seniors with sufficient preparation in related
disciplines.
207. Political Analysis (1)
A study of the methods for collecting quantitative and
qualitative data in political science. In addition to
exploring the logic of scientific inquiry and methods of
analysis, normative questions are raised concerning the
potential biases and limitations of particular modes of
inquiry. Research examples emphasize the special problems in
cross-cultural validation. Mr. Born.
Alternate years: offered in 2000/01.
A. American Politics
[236. The Law and Politics of Death in Modern
America] (1)
This course proposes to study the political, legal,
philosophical, technological, and social dimensions of death
in the United States. It begins with an examination of
current scientific and moral questions surrounding
definitions of death (and life). From there we move to
consider assisted suicide, murder, lynching (as a particular
form of murder), and killing of batterers with particular
attention to issues confronted by the legal and political
system. A final portion of the course engages debate
surrounding capital punishment. Throughout the course we
focus on the role of the state (especially the criminal
justice system), legal rights and claims, and political
activism. Ms. Villmoare.
Not offered in 2000/01.
237. Law of Race and Gender Antidiscrimination in the
U.S. (1)
This course explores the history of antidiscrimination
law in the United States. We start by examining how people
of color and Euro-Americans were defined as "races."
Thereafter, we analyze the development of antidiscrimination
principles in America by focusing on a range of Supreme
Court decisions and Congressional initiatives developed in
the eighteenth, nineteenth, and twentieth centuries. An
array of interdisciplinary secondary sources as well as
writings by lawyers, political scientists, and legal
scholars are used in this class. Mr. Harris.
240. The American Presidency (1)
An analysis of the American presidency, with emphasis on
recent presidents. Topics include presidential nominations
and elections; the nature and use of presi-dential power;
the institutionalized presidency; policy making in the White
House; the relationship between presidents and other key
political factors, e.g., the Congress, the bureaucracy, the
media, and public opinion; and the role of presidential
personality and style. Mr. Born.
Alternate years: offered in 2000/01.
[241. Congress] (1)
An analysis of the contemporary and evolving U.S.
Congress, its organization, functions, and politics. Topics
include congressional elections and representation; the
internal life and norms of the House and Senate; the
structure of power in Congress; interest groups and
lobbying; presidential-congressional relations; the
congressional response to selected public problems; and
political change and the future of Congress. Mr. Born.
Alternate years: not offered in 2000/01.
[242. Law, Justice, and Politics] (1)
An analysis of the interrelationships between law and
politics in civil and criminal spheres in the United States,
focusing on the role of the police, courtroom participants,
and prison officials. Special emphasis is given to decision
making in criminal law at the local levele.g., pretrial
negotiations, bail, and sentencing. Ms. Villmoare.
Not offered in 2000/01.
243b. Constitutional Law (1)
Leading decisions of the Supreme Court interpreting the
Constitution of the United States, with special reference to
the powers of government and the rights of individuals. Mr.
Rumble.
[244. Political Parties and Public Opinion]
(1)
An examination of the nature and roles of public opinion
and political parties in American politics, with emphasis on
democratic means of political participation and influence in
contemporary America. Special attention is paid to mass and
elite political attitudes and behavior, techniques of public
opinion polling, the impact of public opinion on policy
making, recent national elections, campaign techniques and
strategies, and the changing party system. Mr. Born.
Alternate years: not offered in 2000/01.
[245. Sex and Power in American Politics]
(1)
A study of the relationship of women to politics in the
United States. Attention is paid to the women's rights and
suffrage movements of the nineteenth century, to women and
the law, and to the ideological and political dimensions of
the contemporary women's movement. Ms. Shanley
Not offered in 2000/01.
246. African American Politics (1)
(Same as Africana Studies 246) This course analyzes the
diverse ways in which African Americans have engaged in
politics in the United States. After briefly considering
challenges facing the African American community, the course
looks at approaches to politics including active engagement
in the political system, Pan-Africanism and Black
nationalism, accommodation and assimilation, class-based
struggle, and everyday forms of resistance. The course
concludes with a consideration of possible policy
alternatives advocated by various African American leaders.
Writers to be studied may include W.E.B. DuBois, Marcus
Garvey, Booker T. Washington, Malcom X, Martin Luther King,
Jr., William Julius Wilson, bell hooks, Manning Marable,
Robin Kelley, Angela Davis, and Patricia Williams. Mr.
Longman.
[247. The Politics of Difference] (1)
This course relates to the meanings of various group
experiences in American politics. It explicitly explores,
for example, issues of race, class, gender, and sexual
orientation. Mr. Harris.
Not offered in 2000/01.
[249. The Politics of City, Suburb, and
Neighborhood] (1)
An examination of the development, organization and
practice of the varied forms of politics in metropolitan
areas. Main themes include struggles between machine and
reform politicians in cities; fiscal politics and urban
preoccupations with economic development; racial and class
politics in cities; changes in federal urban policy;
neighborhood politics and alternative forms of community
organizations and development; suburban politics and
exclusion. Mr. Plotkin.
Alternate years: not offered in 2000/01.
B. Comparative Politics
250a. African Politics (1)
(Same as Africana Studies 250) This course introduces
students to the great diversity of peoples, ideas, cultures,
and political practices found on the African continent. The
course first investigates the causes of the contemporary
social, economic, and political challenges facing African
states, then analyzes the ways in which African populations
have responded to foreign domination, authoritarian
government, unfavorable economic conditions, and social
divisions. The course uses case studies of African countries
to explore political issues within specific contexts and
pays particular attention to international involvement in
Africa. Mr. Longman.
Alternate years: offered in 2000/01.
253. Transitions In Europe (1)
This course considers transitions in Europe, with a focus
on Russia and the European Union. An analysis of such recent
changes as the collapse of authoritarianism and emergence of
democracy in the former Soviet Union, the emerging
democratic deficit in the European Union, marketization in
Russia, and the transition to a single European market in
the European Union. Ms. Haus.
[254. Western European Politics] (1)
An inquiry into the impact of institutional structure
(including the structure of the state, labor unions, and
party system), with a focus on Britain, France, and Germany.
Considers the historical origins and contemporary
consequences of different institutional designs. Compares
institutionalist perspectives with alternative
economy-centered perspectives to explain social coalitions
and cleavages, and policy-making toward such issues as
unemployment, economic recession, and immigration. Ms.
Haus.
Not offered in 2000/01.
255. Government and Politics in South Asia (1)
A comparative analysis of political phenomena in South
Asia with special attention to the interaction between
traditional cultural patterns, such as religion, caste, and
language, and modern political forms, such as parties,
parliamentary institutions, bureaucracy, political
associations, and the military. Primary attention is given
to India with some reference to Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and
Bangladesh. Instructor to be announced. Mr. Muppidi.
Alternate years: offered in 2000/01.
[256. Politics and Conflict in the Middle
East] (1)
A comparative analysis of the causes and dynamics of
selected intra- and interstate conflicts in the Middle East:
the Arab/Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the gulf Wars of the
1980s and 1990s, and the conflicts over Kurdistan and the
Western Sahara. Also receiving attention are the various
institutional, economic, ideological, cultural, and
technological factors shaping these conflicts, their
competing interpretations, and questions concerning "just
resolution." Mr. Davison.
Not offered in 2000/01.
257. Legacies of Violence (1)
A comparative analysis of the legacies of political
violence for both democratic and democratizing regimes.
Legacies expressed through "formal" political institutions
(i.e., constitutions, laws, political parties), and through
more "informal", or cultural, expressions of
authoritarianism (i.e., collective memories, symbolic acts
and phenomena, day-to-day social relations) which together
influence the scope and depth of democracy in
post-authoritarian politics. Case studies include Italy,
Germany, Spain, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, the former
Yugoslavia, and the Czech Republic. Ms. Hite.
258. Latin American Politics (1)
An examination of major political issues and challenges
facing contemporary Latin America, from ongoing processes of
democratization and economic liberalization, to new efforts
at regional integration and peace-keeping. The course also
explores movements for socially sustainable development and
citizenship rights on the part of non-governmental
organizations and networks. The course uses country cases
from throughout the region, including the Southern Cone, the
Andes, Central America, and Mexico. Ms. Hite
C. International Politics
261. Theories of War and Peace (1)
An inquiry into the causes of war and peace among states.
Explanations at various levelshuman, societal, governmental,
internationalare considered. The course aims at an
understanding of those factors which lead individual states
into conflict with one another as well as those which
incline the broader international system toward stability or
instability. Mr. Rock.
Alternate years: offered in 2000/01.
[264. The Foreign Policy of the United States]
(1)
Key factors which shape the formulation and execution of
American foreign policy are identified, primarily through a
series of case studies drawn from post–World War II
experience in world affairs. Normative issues concerning the
decision-making process and foreign policy goals and means
are also discussed. Mr. Rock.
Not offered in 2000/01.
265. International Political Economy (1)
This course analyzes the relationship between politics
and economics, and explores change in the global political
economy. It considers alternative theoretical perspectives
and case studies to inquire into such subjects as the rise
and decline of empires; economic sanctions; international
and regional institutions (e.g., the World Trade
Organization, the IMF, the European Union, and NAFTA) and
their implications for cooperation, conflict and
protectionism; technological developments and their
implications for the conventional boundaries between the
international and domestic arenas; and globalization and its
implications for migration, inequality, and democracy. Ms.
Haus.
[266. Defense Policy and Arms Control]
(1)
An examination of American defense and arms control
policy since 1945. Particular atention is given to the
theory and practice of conventional and nuclear deterrence,
and to the analysis of such contemporary issues as
proliferation, the role of women and gays in the military,
and the problem of economic conversion. Mr. Rock.
Alternate years: not offered in 2000/01.
[267. NGOs and Global Society] (1)
After reviewing alternative theories of the role of NGOs
(nongovernmental organizations) in civil society and their
relationship to the state, the focus is on a comparative
analysis of the ideologies, strategies, and impacts of NGOs
in dealing with such issues as human rights, the
environment, women's reproductive health, AIDS, and land
reform. Case studies are drawn from both the United States
(especially Poughkeepsie) and selected countries from Asia,
Africa, and Latin America. Sources encompass scholarly
literature, Internet sites, fiction, films, and dialogues
with NGO activists.
Not offered in 2000/01.
268a. The Politics of Globalization (1)
Globalization is increasingly seen as a new and powerful
force in world politics, but there is intense debate over
what this new force is and what its effects are. This course
introduces students to some of the more prominent ways of
theorizing globalization and explaining the politics
underlying the economic, social, and cultural effects it
generates.
269. National Model United Nations (1)
Prepares students to participate in the National Model
U.N. in New York. Students represent a country and its
policies, research the country's history, its economic and
political systems, and its foreign policy. Participation in
the Model U.N. occurs in April. Mr. Reitano.
Prerequisite: by permission of instructor; requires
application early in the a-term.
One 4-hour period.
D. Political Theory
270. Modern Political Thought (1)
A study of selected modern political theorists, such as
Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Marx, Mill, and
Arendt. Among the themes stressed are theories of
sovereignty, the development and varieties of liberalism and
individualism, different theories of community, the
relationships between politics and economics, and the
relationship between the individual and the state. Mr.
Stillman.
271. American Political Theory (1)
Studies of American political theory, particularly issues
surrounding the meanings of democracy, political obligation,
and equality. Readings include works about the government of
Native American peoples, Spanish and English colonial rule,
the U.S. Constitution, the post–Civil War amendments,
women's suffrage and women's rights, and the political and
constitutional challenges posed by a pluralistic or
multicultural society. Mr. Stillman, Ms. Shanley.
[273. Interpreting Politics] (1)
A detailed study of the philosophical underpinnings of
various modes of interpreting politics:
empiricism/positivism; interpretive/hermeneutic inquiry,
critical theory, rational choice theory, realism, and
discourse analysis. Aim is to understand the central
concepts and goals of each approach, the kinds of
explanations they seek to offer, and the views they posit
regarding the relationship between politics and theory, on
the one hand, and politics and the political analyst, on the
other. Mr. Davison.
Not offered in 2000/01.
275. Ideology and Politics in the Muslim Middle East
(1)
In this course we will study various Muslim
interpretations of Islam and its role in politics in the
Middle East. Readings will focus on different
interpretations on the relationship between Islam and
politics in the region and the material and institutional
contexts of selected states within which those
interpretations emerge. These states will include Iran (an
Islamic Republic), Turkey (a Laicist Republic), and several
states in the Arab world. Readings will also include
material on women in Islam and Sufism. Mr. Davison.
[276. Utopian Political Thought] (1)
A study of major Western utopias from Thomas More's to
the present, including proposed "good societies," dystopias
such as Brave New World, and existing communities,
such as theme parks, suburbs, and malls, that are utopian or
can be analyzed through utopian principles. Central themes
include the treatment of change, progress, and ideals;
idealism versus realism; and problems of political critique
and political programs. Mr. Stillman.
Alternate years: not offered in 2000/01.
[278. Feminism and Political Theory]
(1)
Explores selected topics of importance for both political
philosophy and feminist theory. Examines disputes
surrounding such concepts as equality, liberty, reverse
discrimination, autonomy, privacy, and citizenship, and may
utilize classic texts as well as contemporary writings.
Particular attention is paid to the diversity of experiences
and perspectives among American feminists. Ms. Shanley.
Alternate years: not offered in 2000/01.
[279. Conservatism and Its Critics]
(1)
An examination of the major strands of conservative
thought, with an emphasis on Britain and the United States.
Central concerns are the origins of conservatism with Locke,
Smith, and Burke; the development of major strands of
conservative thought, especially traditional, skeptical, and
libertarian; and the status and variety of conservative
thought, and an analysis of conservative programs and
policies, in the contemporary United States. Mr.
Stillman.
Not offered in 2000/01.
E. Other
290a or b. Field Work (1/2 or
1)
Individual or group field projects or internships with
prior approval of the adviser. Students are expected to do
substantial directed reading in theoretical material
specifically related to the field placement prior to or in
conjunction with the field experience; to develop in
consultation with a faculty supervisor a set of questions
based on the theoretical reading to guide the field
observations; to submit a written report relating the
theoretical reading to the field observations or, in lieu of
a report and at the option of the department, to take a
final oral examination administered by two faculty members.
No more than 1 unit of field work (either 290, 291, or a
combination of the two) may be counted toward fulfilling the
requirements of the minimum major. The department.
298a or b. Independent Work (1/2
or 1)
Independent work is normally based on a student's desire
to study with an instruc-
tor a specialized aspect of a course taken with that
instructor. One unit normally entails substantial directed
reading and/or the writing of a long paper and biweekly
conferences with the instructor. In no case shall
independent work satisfy the sub-field distribution
requirement. The department.
III. Advanced
Prerequisite for all advanced seminars: permission of the
instructor and normally a relevant course at a lower level.
Enrollments, in general, are limited to twelve students. The
content of seminars can vary from year to year depending
upon inter-ests of students and instructors. Seminars might
focus on topics too specialized to receive exhaustive
treatment in lower-level courses; they might explore
particular approaches to the discipline or particular
methods of research; they might be concerned with especially
difficult problems in political life, or be oriented toward
a research project of the instructor.
A. Optional Senior Thesis
300. Senior Thesis (1)
A 1-unit thesis, written in the fall semester.
301-302. Senior Thesis (1 or 2)
A 1-unit thesis written in two semesters or a 2-unit
thesis written in two semesters.
B. American Politics Seminars
341. Seminar in Congressional Politics (1)
This seminar focuses on the theme of congresspeople and
their constituentsa subject that has become quite popular
among congressional scholars. While the theme is broadly
construed, most of our attention is focused on congressional
elections. Here we study reapportionment and redistricting,
campaign finance reform, the too-often ignored subject of
recruitment of congressional candidates, the role of
national party organizations in congressional campaigns, the
emergence of sophisticated campaign techniques, how the
Republicans managed to "nationalize" the 1994 midterms and
win their landslide victory, why divided party control of
government has been so pervasive in the U.S., and how
congresspeople continually cultivate the support of
constituents over their entire term of office through
casework and project assistance. Mr. Born.
Prerequisite: by permission of instructor.
One 2-hour period.
[343. Seminar in Constitutional Theory]
(1)
Explores the constitutional rights of members of groups
that previously were relegated to second-class citizenship
in the United States. Forms of discrimination based upon
group factors such as gender, race, ethnicity, sexual
orientation, national origin, economic class, and religion
are considered. Mr. Harris.
Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
One 2-hour period.
Not offered in 2000/01.
346. Seminar in American Politics (1)
An examination of selected topics in American politics.
Ms. Villmoare.
Prerequisite: by permission, normally an
intermediate-level course in American politics.
One 2-hour period.
[348. Seminar in Democracy and Power in
America] (1)
An examination of tensions and adjustments between
democratic ideals and the structures and practices of
political and economic power in the United States. Mr.
Plotkin.
Prerequisite: by permission of instructor, normally an
intermediate-level course in American Politics.
One 2-hour period.
Not offered in 2000/01.
C. Comparative Politics Seminars
352a. Seminar on Multiculturalism in Comparative
Perspective (1)
(Same as Africana Studies 352) This seminar explores the
political significance of cultural diversity. Based on the
comparative analysis of the United States and other
multicultural states, the course examines how and why
racial, ethnic, linguistic, and religious identities become
grounds for political action. The course examines the
formation of identity groups and considers the origins of
prejudice, racism, and discrimination. The course also
considers peaceful means that governments can use to
accommodate cultural diversity. In addition to the United
States, countries studied may include South Africa, Rwanda,
India, and Yugoslavia. Mr. Longman.
Prerequisite: by permission of instructor.
One 2-hour period.
[354. Seminar on the Politics of Religion in
Africa and the Diaspora] (1)
(Same as Africana Studies 354) In recent decades the
influence of religious organizations and movements on
politics has emerged as a major focus within the social
sciences. In this course, we consider issues of religion and
politics within the specific context of Africa and the
African Diaspora. Topics include religious involvement in
democratization movements in countries from South Africa to
Haiti, the rise of Islamist political movements in places
such as Sudan and Algeria; conflicts and interactions
between religious traditions; the political implications of
syncretic religious movements such as Umbanda and
Kitawalism; and the significance of the Black church in
African American politics. Mr. Longman.
Prerequisite: by permission of instructor.
One 2-hour period.
Not offered in 2000/01.
357. Seminar in Political Psychology (1)
This seminar explores topics and approaches in the realm
of political psychology, including: psychologically-based
explanations for both individual and collective citizen
political behavior; political psychology studies of
political elites; psychologically-understandings of state
and nation; and political psychology approaches to
inter-state relations. Ms. Hite
Prerequisite: by permission of instructor.
One 2-hour period
D. International Politics Seminars
360. Seminar in International Conflict and Cooperation
(1)
An examination of selected topics in international
conflict and cooperation. Mr. Rock.
Prerequisite: by permission of instructor.
One 2-hour period.
362. Seminar in International Politics: Migration and
Citizenship (1)
An inquiry into the causes and consequences of migration
from developing countries to developed countries (e.g., the
United States, France, and Germany). The seminar first
addresses different explanations for why people move across
borders and considers the role of economic forces,
transnational social networks, state policy, and the
legacies of colonialism. It then addresses immigrant
incorporation and reactions to immigration in developed
countries through an analysis of such subjects as immigrant
entrepreneurship in New York City, the rise of the radical
right in France, citizenship policy in France and Germany,
relations between unions and immigrants, and the
incorporation of immigrant children or the second
generation. Ms. Haus.
Prerequisite: by permission of instructor.
One 2-hour period.
363a. Seminar in International Politics:Decolonizing
International Relations (1)
Colonial frameworks are deeply constitutive of mainstream
international relations. Issues of global security, economy,
and politics continue to be analyzed through perspectives
that either silence or are impervious to the voices and
agencies of global majorities. This seminar challenges
students to enter into, reconstruct, and critically evaluate
the differently imagined worlds of ordinary, subaltern
peoples and theories to explore alternatives to the
historically dominant explanations of international
relations.
prerequisite: by permission of instructor.
One 2-hour period.
E. Political Theory Seminars
373. Seminar in Political Philosophy (1)
A study of a major theorist, school, or problem in
political philosophy. Mr. Stillman.
Prerequisite: by permission of instructor.
One 2-hour period.
[375. The Three Religions of the Book and
Political Theory] (1)
An examination of theories underlying contemporary
theopolitical thought and practice through an examination of
the primary and secondary canons of the Judaic, Christian,
and Islamic traditions. Topics include: interpretations of
power, authority, obligation, citizenship, justice, peace,
war, and the role and function of the state. Readings
include contemporary accounts of the persisting of each
traditions' view of politics in contemporary political
theory and practice. Mr. Davison.
Not offered in 2000/01.
[376. Seminar in Feminist Theory In Political
Thought] (1)
This seminar studies feminist theory concerning families
and public policies affecting family life in the
contemporary United States. We examine the impact of
reproductive technology on family formation (including
"surrogate mother hood," sperm and ovum donation); single
motherhood and welfare policy (from the Moynihan Report to
the Contract with America); adoption (particularly
transracial adoption and "open" adoption); legal and social
aspects of same-sex marriage and same-sex parenting; and the
philosophical and political aspects of the "family values"
debate. We pay particular attention to the impact of race
and class on each of the issues we study. Ms. Shanley.
Prerequisite: by permission only of instructor.
One 2-hour period.
Not offered in 2000/01.
384. Seminar in Political Theory (1)
An examination of selected theorists and problems in
contemporary political theory. Mr. Davison
F. Other
399a or b. Senior Independent Work
(1/2 or 1)
Independent work is normally based on a student's desire
to study with an instructor a specialized aspect of a course
taken with that instructor. Normally 1 unit entails
substantial directed reading, the writing of a long paper,
and biweekly conferences with the instructor. This course
cannot be used to satisfy the requirement of 2 units of
300-level work in the major. In no case shall independent
work satisfy the subfield distribution requirement. The
department.