American Government from the Inside Out

Why are some political advertisements more effective than others? Are race-based affirmative action admissions policies important tools for achieving diversity under the constitution or a type of discrimination that a commitment to equality under the law should prohibit? How is public opinion measured, and to what extent should policy makers consider public opinion when making decisions? Why does the United States use the Electoral College system and should it be changed? What do members of Congress really do, how is the legislative process supposed to work and why is it so dysfunctional so often? What powers does (and should) a President of the United States have? How does someone get to be a Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States, how does the Court decide cases, and what role should courts play in our society? What exactly is gerrymandering, how does it work, and how does it shape American politics and policy? What is lobbying? How do lobbyists work and is what they do unethical?

If you have ever thought about or had a passionate opinion about any of these questions, wished you had a better understanding of the issues and of the institutions surrounding them, or are simply curious to learn more about the intricacies of government and policy-making, this course is for you.

We approach these topics through a combination of lectures, case studies, and class discussions. Lectures will be supplemented by a series of guest speakers, featuring professionals from the worlds of government, politics and public policy who will provide students with an insider’s view of how government really works.

Students will have the ability to engage meaningfully with the course material, which will include hands-on research, active participation with guest speakers, and the opportunity to develop leadership skills for a future in government and politics.

This course is ideal for students interested in pursuing a career or major in government or political science.