Introductory Courses

Introduction to the national politics of the United States. Emphasis on the constitutional framework, formal and informal political institutions, the evolving conception of individual freedom and civil rights, the role of the people in a democracy, and an overview of the United States political system.

This course introduces students to the major political theories and ideologies that shape our understanding of politics, including: democracy, liberalism, conservatism, socialism, communism, fascism, radical Islamism, feminism, ecologism, and nationalism. Students will read both contemporary political theory writings as well as excerpts from the classic works that were key in the development of the theories we will study.

An introduction to the substantive and theoretical analysis of states and non-state actors in the international system. Students examine specific cases, theories and debates that exist within world politics with an emphasis on understanding why decisions are made. Concepts include power, interdependence, conflict, economic competition and integration, economic and social development, human rights and the environment.

Historical study of political systems from the French Revolution to World War II. (Salzburg only.)

Credit arranged.

Collegiate mock trial competitions. Students are instructed in the how and why of case preparation as an advocate for either side; role playing as witnesses and trial attorney; understanding and using the rules of evidence; actual trial advocacy; research and delivering arguments.