Department of Politics

Bachelor of Arts

Chip Gagnon, Professor and Chairperson

The curriculum provides an understanding of political organization and political forces in contemporary life. This knowledge develops a basis for insight and allows for judgments on the relationships between individuals and the state, between the economy and the government, as well as between nation-states and the international system. Students become prepared for competency in citizenship for careers in public service and foreign relations, for the study of law, and for scholarship at the graduate level. Politics majors who wish to focus their study on international and global matters can declare a concentration in international studies. The department also offers two minors, in politics and in international politics. The Department contributes significantly to the Legal Studies program.

pre-approved double major in politics and documentary studies

The double major in politics and documentary studies and production enables students to connect the two fields, opening up opportunities to express critical thinking not solely via writing, but in creative, visual, and diverse cultural milieus. The double major does not change the requirements for the two majors (Politics with optional concentration in International Studies B.A. and Documentary Studies and Production B.A.). It does, however:

increase awareness of the possibilities and interconnections between the majors;
facilitates faculty-student collaborations on projects with political, cultural, critical theory, social and economic content;
streamlines admissions procedures for declaring the double major;
promote advising support from faculty in both departments.

For more information, visit the politics or documentary studies web pages, or contact the department chair.

MODEL UNITED NATIONS AND MODEL EUROPEAN UNION

The Model UN team brings together students from all Ithaca College schools and majors with an interest in international affairs. Each member of the team attends at least one national conference per semester. At large conferences, members represent specific countries in UN General Assembly committees or in smaller groups modeled on the UN Security Council. At smaller conferences, members may be assigned a specific character to play in a contemporary or historical crisis simulation, or even a fictional crisis or scenario. Before the conferences, student delegates research their country, topic, or role to prepare short opening statements and position papers. During the simulations, they negotiate with other delegates in order to pass a resolution. Participation helps develop student skills in researching, public speaking, small group communication, and writing, all centered on international affairs. Once a year, Ithaca College also puts together a delegation to participate in the SUNY Model European Union with similar goals and formats. MEU events are held in New York State or in Brussels, Belgium, in alternating years. For more information about both programs, contact the Model UN and Model EU advisor, Juan Arroyo, assistant professor in the Politics department, located in Muller Faculty Center.

Course Levels and Subfields

Politics courses are offered in four different subfields and at three levels.

U.S. politics courses emphasize the organizations, institutions, and processes of U.S. political life at both the national and subnational level, including the study of U.S. leadership patterns, legislative politics, legal systems and their social implications, partisan competition, and fundamental social and economic forces that structure U.S. politics. Courses with a U.S. politics focus are numbered from POLT 10100 to POLT 10300 and from POLT 30100 to POLT 31901.

Comparative and international studies courses encompass the comparative study of political institutions, processes, and sociocultural bases of political systems, along with patterns of international conflict and cooperation. They expose students to an examination of a broad range of political phenomena, such as revolution, war, imperialism, styles of leadership, processes of political change, and systems maintenance. Every semester, the department offers one or more courses on special topics in this subfield; recent topics at the intermediate level include the European Union, Africa in World Politics, International Organizations, Terrorism & Insurgencies, Human Rights & Genocide, Catholics & Politics, International Human Rights Law. At the upper level, recent topics include Nationalism, Populism & Conflict; Empire and Political Theory; Conspiracy Politics; International Negotiation. Courses with a comparative and international studies focus are numbered from POLT 12200 to POLT 12900 (and also include POLT 23000), from POLT 32100 to POLT 34054, from POLT 40100 to POLT 40114, and from POLT 40300 to POLT 40310.

Political theory courses concentrate on philosophical and conceptual concerns that appear throughout the discipline. These include general courses in political thought, courses that center on particular theorists or theoretical systems, and courses on the scope and methods of political analysis. Courses with a political theory focus are numbered POLT 14100 to POLT 14500, and POLT 34100 to POLT 35000.

Public policy courses provide students with analytical approaches to the study of public policy making and application. Particular emphasis is given to understanding the complexities of modern problems and the limitations and potential of public policy to produce the common good. This subfield in particular is recommended for students planning careers in the management of public affairs. Courses with a public policy focus are numbered POLT 36200 to POLT 37000.

Introductory courses are divided into three of the subfields -- U.S. politics, political theory, and comparative and international studies. Majors must take at least one course in each subfield. Introductory courses range from POLT 10100 to POLT 29900.

Intermediate courses include all four subfields -- U.S. politics, political theory, public policy, and comparative and international studies. Students in the major must take at least one course in at least three of the four subfields. One of these may be satisfied by an internship. Students with a concentration in international studies take POLT 30600 US Foreign Policy. Intermediate courses range from POLT 30100 to POLT 37000.

Advanced courses are seminars, tutorials, or directed studies. Students in the major must take two advanced-level courses, at least one of which must be a seminar. Advanced courses range from POLT 40100 to POLT 49900.

Majors & Minors

POLT 10100 U.S. Politics and Public Policy (LA)

Explores the development of the U.S. governmental system, the values the system is rooted in, how the institutions within the system work, how politics, economics, and policy intersect within the system, and the system's impact upon individuals and groups alike. Focuses on the historical and present power struggles concerning national identity, class status, moral and ethical decision-making, civic culture, political affiliation, the role of media, and the process of policy development within the context of a representative and neo-liberal democratic capitalist system. This course is required of all Politics majors. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: H, HM, LMSP, LSCO, SO, SS, TPJ, TWOS
4 Credits

POLT 10200 Media and Politics (LA)

The complex and subtle relationships between major political institutions and major communication media. Reporting of significant information about politics, both in the United States and in Europe, and efforts of governments to channel or control media; the American case of the Pentagon Papers and the French ORTF; and the Federal Communications Commission as a focal point in the continuing conflict between government and electronic media. (S,Y)
Attributes: MAP, SCE, SS
3 Credits

POLT 10300 The United States and the World (LA)

Examines the history of U.S. foreign policy, as well as the ideological roots of various foreign policy stances, with a view to understanding the roots of contemporary relations between the U.S. and the rest of the world. (IRR)
Attributes: 1, SS
4 Credits

POLT 12200 Politics and Society (LA)

Explores the impact of social forces and societal dynamics on the politics of diverse countries, as well as the influence of politics and the state on society. Examines how and to what extent political institutions, individual and collective political action, and historical circumstances are capable of shaping political and social developments in different countries and regions of the world. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: LAEL, LAGC, LMSP, LSCO, SO, TPJ, TQSF
4 Credits

POLT 12300 Political Justice (LA)

The definition and analysis of political trials in various cultural and historical contexts as an index of the modern state's expanding claims on individuals and groups. Different perspectives of defense, prosecution, and judgment; media impact; extrajudicial means of repression. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. (F,Y)
Attributes: 1, G, NAPL, NASE, SS
3 Credits

POLT 12800 Introduction to International Relations (LA)

Provides students with an understanding of competing theoretical perspectives on the international system from a social science perspective. Critically examines a range of issues in international relations, including military, economic, and cultural issues as well as issues related to the environment, health, and poverty. Uses specific case studies to illustrate these issues. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: G, INBG, LMSP, LSCO, SO, SS, TPJ, TWOS
4 Credits

POLT 12900 Introduction to Global and Policy Studies (LA)

Examines global issues, including culture and identity formation, globalization, human rights, the environment, and militarism. National and international public policies are examined critically and policy alternatives are explored, as are individual responses and responsibilities. Utilizes country case studies, international simulations, literature and film and emphasizes global awareness. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: ADSE, G, HM, INBG, LMSP, LSCO, LXME, SO, SS, TIDE, TPJ
4 Credits

POLT 14100 Power: Race, Sex, and Class (LA)

Exploration of the major theoretical perspectives on power. Examines what power is, where it comes from, where it is located, and how it is distributed along the lines of class, gender, and race. The primary focus is on contemporary practices of citizenship, democracy, capitalism, violence, security, and specific issues they raise for policy making, persons, the family, and corporate power. Counts as a political theory course for politics majors. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: 1, AN3, DV, G, HM, LMSP, SO, SS, TIDE, TPJ, WGS, WGSI
4 Credits

POLT 14200 Ideas and Ideologies (LA)

Exploration of the philosophical and ideological roots of political life and political inquiry. Concepts such as authority, legitimacy, freedom, and justice are studied, as well as the ideologies of liberation, conservatism, communism, nationalism, and democracy. Analysis of the intellectual wellsprings of modern social and political sciences. Exploration of ideologies as contested terrains open to criticism and transformation. Counts as a political theory course for politics majors. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: HM, LMSP, LSCO, SO, SS, TPJ, TWOS
4 Credits

POLT 14300 Understanding Capitalism (LA)

Exploration of the role of class conflict in the making of contemporary political and social life. Application of theoretical and historical materials to assess capitalism's complex relationship to such ideals as progress, freedom, equality, individuality, and justice. Understanding the personal, regional, national, and global scope of capitalism. Counts as a political theory course for politics majors. (Y)
Attributes: 1, HM, SO, SS, TPJ, TWOS
4 Credits

POLT 14400 Global Political Thought (LA)

Explores the global dimensions of political theory. Special attention is given to analyzing how core texts and ideas in western social and political thought have traveled, been translated, understood, and reimagined across various national and geographical boundaries. Counts as a political theory course for politics majors. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: HM, HU, SO, SS, TIDE, TPJ
4 Credits

POLT 14500 Politics of Identity: Race, Ethnicity, Culture (LA)

Explores the impact of race on both individual identities and on the life opportunities afforded to different racial groups in the United States. Focuses on understanding how identity and race are socially and politically constructed in order to devise an anti-racist politics that cuts across racial and cultural differences. Cross-listed with CSCR 14500. Counts as a political theory course for politics majors. (F,Y)
Attributes: HM, SO, SS, TIDE, TPJ
3 Credits

POLT 14600 Gender and Political Theory (LA)

This course focuses on feminist critiques of foundational texts in political theory. It explores how gender, masculinity, and heterosexism inform such core political science concepts as power, human rights, political participation, the state, human nature, political consciousness, self/other and violence. Particular attention is paid to how ideas about masculinity and femininity affect what we think of as political, and to the ways in which people resist such conceptions. Counts as a political theory course for politics majors. (Y)
Attributes: DV, WGS
4 Credits

POLT 19500 Food and Water: Challenges to Sustainability (LA)

This course focuses on several kinds of food and water policy, addressing nutrition, agricultural subsidies, health concerns, and ecological effects. Students will learn to identify the ideological values expressed in different policies. Examines the actors and obstacles involved in defining and shaping our options and choices regarding food and water, and the specific centers of decision-making in all of the branches of government. The course serves as a general introduction to policy. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: ABSS, SO, TQSF
4 Credits

POLT 23000 The Holocaust (LA)

This course surveys the Holocaust. Topics covered include the origins and development of anti-Semitism; the rise of Nazism; the response of European Jews to persecution before and during World War II; the evolution of Nazi policy from repression to genocide; the plight of refugees; the place of the Holocaust in the Nazi plan to create a new racial order in Europe; and the roles of bystanders and rescuers. Prerequisites: Sophmore standing. (F,Y)
Attributes: G, H, LMEL, LSCO, SS
3 Credits

POLT 29900 Field Study: Politics (NLA)

Opportunity for students to explore and experience facets of political life through work experience and/or field research. Academic credit contingent on completion of study design with departmental faculty member. (Course may not be used to satisfy level-1 distribution requirements.) Prerequisites: POLT 10100; one other course in the social sciences; permission of instructor. (Y)
1-6 Credits

POLT 30100 Legislative Behavior (LA)

Analysis of legislative bodies, with an emphasis placed on the U.S. Congress. State and municipal legislatures, parliamentary legislatures, and other collegial bodies; legislative structures and roles, representation, and apportionment; executive-legislative relations; oversight and investigation; and legislative reform. Counts as a US Politics course for politics majors. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. (IRR)
Attributes: LMSP, SS
3 Credits

POLT 30300 Constitutional Law: Civil Rights and Liberties (LA)

An introduction to constitutional law as it develops in the context of the U.S. political process. Emphasis is placed on civil rights and liberties (freedom of speech, press, and thought; equal protection; rights of the accused; etc.). Court decisions in these areas are related to attitudes and behaviors in the political and social system. Counts as a US Politics course for politics majors. (S,Y)
Attributes: H, LMEL, LSCO, NAPP, NASE, SS
4 Credits

POLT 30400 U.S. Party Politics (LA)

Examines the role of political parties in the U.S., with an emphasis on the two-party system. Exploration of party organization, power, and leadership; the role of parties in Congress; the election process; party campaign strategies and techniques; the role of money in party politics; media, public opinion, and political party-interest group dynamics. Counts as a US Politics course for politics majors/minors. (Y,IRR)
Attributes: LMSP, SS
4 Credits

POLT 30500 Urban Politics (LA)

Exploration of the complexities of urban politics. Examines the politics and governance of U.S. cities, including the distribution of political & economic power in the city. Explores how governing structures, leadership, urban regimes, partisanship, political coalitions, citizen participation, the role of the business community, and federalism, impact electoral politics, decision-making processes, and policy outcomes. Consideration of various topics that help shape U.S. urban political life in the domestic and global context: poverty, gentrification, public education, policing, city bureaucracies, housing, mass transit, land use and planning, demographic changes, social movements, and racial/ethnic dynamics. Counts as a US Politics course for politics majors. (Y,IRR)
Attributes: ABSS
4 Credits

POLT 30600 U.S. Foreign Policy (LA)

US foreign policy from theoretical, historical, and contemporary perspectives. The evolution of US foreign policy from the 1770s to the 21st century, as well as current issues -- including international trade, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and China -- and their historical roots. Current debates about the future of the international order and of US grand strategy. Counts as a US Politics course for politics majors. (F,Y)
Attributes: INBG, LMEL, LMSP, LSCO, SS
4 Credits

POLT 30900 Personality and Politics (LA)

Linkages between political life and the development of individual personality. Problems of political thinking and consciousness are analyzed for individual citizens, small groups, and political leaders. Consideration of political biographies and public opinion materials. Counts as a US Politics course for politics majors. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. (IRR)
Attributes: SS
3 Credits

POLT 31000 Supreme Court in U.S. Politics (LA)

Summarizes, surveys, and analyzes Supreme Court decision making in terms of an explicit theoretical framework concerning the court's essential functions within the U.S. political system. Provides students with a nontechnical explanation of the activities of the Supreme Court -- what the court does, why it does what it does, and what effects the court's activities have had on U.S. society. Counts as a US Politics course for politics majors. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. (Y)
Attributes: LMEL, LSCO, SS
3 Credits

POLT 31900-31901 Selected Topics in U.S. Politics (LA)

Matters of special contemporary interest to students and faculty may be developed under this course heading. May be repeated for up to 12 credits for selected topics on different subjects. Counts as a US Politics course for politics majors. (IRR)
Attributes: SS
4 Credits

POLT 32100 Contemporary British Politics (LA)

Introduction to the British political system. Functioning of governmental institutions, the class base of politics, political parties, elections, interest groups in policy process, and current issues confronting the British polity. Comparisons with U.S. political institutions and processes. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors, and as a “place” course for the concentration in international studies and for international politics minors. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. Offered only through the London Center. (F-S,Y)
Attributes: INBG, SS
3 Credits

POLT 32200 British Foreign Policy (LA)

Examination of Britain's historical role in world affairs as a great power and imperialist state, and of the forces leading to decline. Emphasis also is placed on the British position in East-West relations, relations with Europe and the EC, the role of the Commonwealth today, the foreign policy-making processes, partisan differences among political parties, and current issues such as the nuclear arms debate and relations with South Africa. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. Offered only through the London Center. (F,Y)
Attributes: SS
3 Credits

POLT 32300 Race and Colonialism (LA)

This course engages colonialism as a set of racial and material practices that shaped the identities of the colonizers and the colonized as much as it did the global political economy. Three themes in particular will guide our engagement: the racial overtones and undertones of the colonial encounter, especially as embodied in the ideas of discovery, barbarism, and progress; the psychological dynamics of the relationship between the colonizers and the colonized; and the politics of oppression and liberation. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. (Y)
Attributes: AACI, AASE, ADCI, ADSE, LSCI, LXME, NACI, NASE, SS
4 Credits

POLT 32410 Human Rights & Genocide (LA)

The course examines some of the key debates within the field of human rights, including debates between universalism and cultural relativity, and between individual and collective rights. It also looks at some of the main critiques of human rights: Does it matter if there is an international human rights regime if human rights are not enforced? In what ways can human rights be considered a colonialist enterprise? The course focuses in particular on the crime of genocide and attempts by individuals and groups to recover or seek justice in the wake of genocidal-type violence. Course is cross-listed with LGST 32410; students cannot earn credit for LGST 32410. Prerequisites: One 100-level LGST or POLT course. (S,Y)
4 Credits

POLT 32500 Chinese Politics (LA)

Revolutionary change in modern China: historical survey of China from 1911 to 1949, with attention to development of the Chinese Communist party; rise of Mao Tse-tung and evolution of Maoist thought; the process of reform from 1979 onward, with focus on political and social transformation of Chinese society. Also covers shifts in China’s foreign policy, especially since the rise of Xi Jinping. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors, and as a “place” course for the concentration in international studies and for international politics minors. (O)
Attributes: AASE, INBG, SS
4 Credits

POLT 32600 Russian Politics (LA)

Examines the internal conflicts and external forces that shape the Russian experience since independence in 1991, as well as continuities with the Soviet system. Considers the effect of Russian culture and nationalism on politics. Draws on the Russian experience in order to cast light on questions such as what is democracy, what are the tensions between democracy and capitalism, what is the difference between socialism and capitalism, and what leads to the erosion of liberal democracy. Examines trends in Russian foreign policy, including shifts over time and the relationship to domestic events. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors, and as a “place” course for the concentration in international studies and for international politics minors. (Y)
Attributes: INBG, SS
4 Credits

POLT 32700 The Politics of Development (LA)

Focuses on the struggle of third-world peoples to improve their economic position and political power in the international system. Covers a range of development approaches aimed at reducing poverty and inequality, with emphasis on the ways in which governments, non-governmental organizations, international aid agencies, and social movements and communities envision and implement development programs. Special attention is given to problems of development in Latin America, Asia and Africa and to the role played by industrial societies in the development process. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. (S,O)
Attributes: ABSS, AN3, ENSS, ESPE, ESSS, INBG, LAEL, LAGC
4 Credits

POLT 32800 International Conflict (LA)

Study of nationalism, conflict among nations, the role of force and violence, cold wars and arms competitions, ideological conflicts, similarities and differences between national conflict and international conflict, and techniques of conflict resolution. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. (F,Y)
Attributes: LMEL, LMSP, LSCO, SS
3 Credits

POLT 32900 Comparative Politics of the Global South (LA)

Critically examines the impact of the emergence of a capitalist world economy on Asian, African, and Latin American societies, and explores Global South internationalism, ‘subaltern’ knowledge production, and emerging forms of political struggle against colonialism, local and global inequalities, racism, gender, labor discriminations, and ecological devastation. Objectives are to specify the common features, particularities, and challenges of Global South countries, international relations and solidarities, and to examine efforts to shift geopolitical power relations and solidify political projects towards a fairer and equal world. The methodology is comparative and historical. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. (IRR)
Attributes: DV, ESE, INBG, LAGC, SS
4 Credits

POLT 33000 European Politics (LA)

Focuses on changes and continuities in European identity and democracy, and other trends and issues that Europe is facing at the start of the 21st century. Looks at institutions and parties of major European states as well as of the European Union, and at the transition to liberal political and economic systems in Eastern Europe. Also considers issues of citizenship, immigration, racism, and nationalism in all parts of Europe. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors, and as a “place” course for the concentration in international studies and for international politics minors. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: INBG, SS
4 Credits

POLT 33100 Latin American Politics (LA)

Introduces issues in contemporary Latin American Politics. Undertakes a comparative political analysis of nations in the region called Latin America -- Central and South America and the Caribbean. Includes a systemic analysis of intraregional relations, especially Latin America-U.S., and interregional relations between Latin America and countries in other regions. Examines the historical events, internal political, socio-economic, and racial/ethnic structures and power relations, and behaviors of national and international actors influencing Latin American countries’ politics and societies. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors, and as a “place” course for the concentration in international studies and for international politics minors. (F,E)
Attributes: INBG, LSCI, LXME, SS
4 Credits

POLT 33200 Africa through Film: Representation and Reality (LA)

Interrogates popular Western representations of the African continent and their foundations. Emphasizes the need for media literacy and exposure to counter-narratives in the study of African countries. Explores African and African Diaspora histories, politics and contemporary issues through extensive readings and a comparative analysis of diverse films from radical African filmmakers, popular African cinema and even Hollywood. Students apply sociopolitical analysis to the subject matter, uncovering for instance, apartheid ideology behind the portrayal of Africans in the film "The Gods Must Be Crazy." Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors, and as a “place” course for the concentration in international studies and for international politics minors. (F,Y)
Attributes: 1, ADCI, ADSE, G, H, INBG, MAP, SCE, SS
4 Credits

POLT 33300 Understanding Islam (LA)

This course aims to facilitate an understanding of Islam within two overlapping contexts: one is the political, historical, and ideological encounter between Islam and the West that has shaped Western attitudes toward the religion. The other is how Muslims experience Islam as both a system of beliefs about the divine (religion and theology) and as lived reality (history and politics). Topics range from scriptural conceptions of God, human creation, sex and gender relationships, and war and violence to mysticism, from the encounters of early medieval Europeans with Islam to post 9/11 debates on Islam and terrorism. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. Prerequisites: Three courses in the social sciences. (S,Y)
Attributes: INBG, SS
3 Credits

POLT 33400 Human Rights and the Politics of Culture (LA)

Investigates the philosophical and legal debates pertaining to questions that address the universality of human rights. Explores the contradictory ways in which religious, social, and cultural forces, gender and class struggles, and structural global inequalities generate diverse concepts of moral rights, justice, freedoms, and protections. Uses case studies and critical questions such as that posed by Mahmood Mamdani: "Can a culture of individual rights coexist with the right of every individual to practice one's culture?" Provides comparative studies of the United States, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East but focuses primarily on African countries and their contributions to human rights discourses and practice. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. (S,O)
Attributes: INBG, LMEL, LMSP, LSCO, SS
4 Credits

POLT 33500 Crossing Borders/Global Migration (LA)

The movement of people across borders -- as refugees and as workers -- is a central political issue throughout the world, at times even becoming the focus of violence. The course focuses on the causes of these movements, as well as on questions migration raises about the meaning of borders and the link between identity, culture, and politics. This course uses a range of texts -- journalistic accounts, academic writings, fiction, films, and the words of migrants themselves. We examine migrations at the global level, including the United States, as well as at the local level, including migrant workers in western New York. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. (O)
Attributes: ABSS, AN3, ESE
4 Credits

POLT 33600 Whiteness and Multiculturalism (LA)

This course interrogates the concept of whiteness and relates it to conceptualizations of multiculturalism, tackling these issues at both theoretical and empirical levels, drawing on cases from the United States as well as from other societies. The goal of the course is to foreground the category "white" and to recognize the meanings of this category, the effect it has on white and non-white individuals, and the direct relationship of whiteness to power. It also seeks to bring about a critical rethinking of the concept of multiculturalism by linking the study of whiteness to policies of multiculturalism. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. (E)
Attributes: ADCI, ADSE, AN3, LMEL, LSCO, SS
3 Credits

POLT 33700 Politics of Memory and Transitional Justice (LA)

Exploration of the political and social dilemmas surrounding concepts such as collective memory, truth, justice, confession, forgiveness, healing, and reconciliation in sociopolitical spaces. How, for instance, will the political suppression or mobilization of memory vie for space with efforts to address the systematization of unconscionable crimes against humanity and create a just peace? What lessons do the experiences of South Africa, the United States, Chile, and Rwanda offer other polarized societies? Students engage memory theory and the narratives of victims and perpetrators in examining Czech writer Milan Kundera's suggestion that "the struggle of man against power is the struggle of memory against forgetting." Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. (IRR)
Attributes: NASE, SS
4 Credits

POLT 33800 Terrorism and Insurgencies (LA)

The course explores why people resort to violence that is defined as terrorism, as well as how they respond to violence. It looks at these questions both theoretically and through case studies from around the world. The course also explores the phenomenon of insurgency, including its relationship to terrorism, and analyzes policies of counterterrorism and counterinsurgency. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. (Y)
4 Credits

POLT 33900 Political Economy of the Middle East (LA)

Analyzes the political economy of the Middle East from a historical and theoretical perspective. Explains the nature of socioeconomic change through analysis of the relationships among state, class, and economic development. Topics include the nature and role of the economy and the state, the processes of class formation, the role of women, the Arab-Israeli conflict, and U.S. interests in the region. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors, and as a “place” course for the concentration in international studies and for international politics minors. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. (F)
Attributes: INBG, SS
3 Credits

POLT 33910 International Organizations (LA)

Studies international organizations that have emerged over time to pursue solutions to cross-national problems, and to help develop rules and structures to manage inter-state and other kinds of global interactions. Addresses a variety of issues including the problems of war and peace, the definitions and management of economic development, and questions of environmental protection. Explores key concepts such as sovereignty, cooperation, and norms. Studies theoretical approaches to and criticisms of international organizations like the UN, treaty organizations like NATO, regional and economic organizations, as well as international non-governmental organizations. (F,Y)
4 Credits

POLT 34000-34054 Selected Topics in Comparative-International Studies (LA)

Matters of special contemporary interest to students and faculty may be developed under this course heading. This arrangement permits departmental offerings to be responsive to evolving faculty and student interests. This course may be repeated for credit when topics change. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors.
Attributes: SS
4 Credits

POLT 34100 U.S. Political Thought (LA)

Explores the writings and ideas of political thinkers and activists who have shaped U.S. politics, institutions, and policy development from the Puritans to the present. Examines questions surrounding freedom and equality, individual rights, the role of community, power and justice, national identity, religion, the relationship between citizens and the state, the nature of change, and the place of labor in the United States. Counts as a political theory and U.S. politics course for majors. (IRR)
Attributes: SS
4 Credits

POLT 34200 Liberalism and Marxism (LA)

Treats several important political ideas and questions from a feminist, as well as a Marxist, perspective through historical political theory. The first part of the course addresses the division of labor in society and its relationship to private property and alienable labor; the second deals with the treatment of the sexual division of labor. Some of the key issues are conceptions of human nature: What is natural or innate? What is social? What necessitates government? The course also looks at issues of reform or revolution. In essence, students examine classical liberalism as the ideology supporting the capitalist system. Primary readings from historical theorists (Locke, Hobbes, Rousseau, Hegel, Mill, Marx, Goldman, and Luxemburg). Counts as a political theory course for politics majors. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: LMEL, LMSP, LSCO, SS
4 Credits

POLT 34300 Feminist Theory (LA)

This course discusses theories pertaining to the subjugation of women and members of the LGBTQ community, historical and contemporary. In this sense it is a study of feminist ideology as it has been developed by Mary Wollstonecraft, the early American feminists, Emma Goldman, J. S. Mill, socialist literature, radical feminism, Black feminist thought, and post-colonial feminism. Key questions to be discussed throughout are the issues of the sexual division of labor; the acceptance or rejection of the issues of the sexual division of labor; the acceptance or rejection of the connection between sexual and class oppression, and other key historical and contemporary feminist debates. We develop a synthesis of much of the literature in order to assess and compare the contemporary women's movement with historical forms of women's struggle. Counts as a political theory course for politics majors. (IRR)
Attributes: SS, WGS, WGS3
4 Credits

POLT 34400 Contemporary British Political Theory (LA)

Particular emphasis is placed on the controversy concerning the responsibility of the state for economic and social equality. Attention is given to the concepts of freedom and equality and the ideas of market system liberalism, social democracy, socialism, Marxism, conservatism, and neoconservatism. Counts as a political theory course for politics majors. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. Offered only through the London Center. (S,Y)
Attributes: SS
3 Credits

POLT 35000-35009 Selected Topics in Political Theory (LA)

Focus on particular areas of political theory that are not covered in other 300-level theory courses. This arrangement permits departmental offerings to be responsive to evolving faculty and student interests. Counts as a political theory course for politics majors. (IRR)
Attributes: SS
4 Credits

POLT 36200 Theory and Politics of Public Policy (LA)

Selected public policy issues; development, formulation, execution, and evaluation. Theories of the policymaking process, such as rationalism, incrementalism, and systems analysis, with a view toward understanding their analytical and explanatory power. Counts as a public policy course for politics majors. Prerequisites: ECON 12100; two additional courses in social sciences or equivalent. (F,Y)
Attributes: SS
3 Credits

POLT 36300 Politics of Equality (LA)

Examines equality and inequality from a variety of perspectives, including philosophical, socioeconomic, and public policy analysis, as well as problems entailed in defining and justifying equality as a political and socioeconomic goal. Explores interpretations of the human consequences of inequality. Analyzes equality as a political problem in capitalist and socialist societies. Counts as a public policy course for politics majors. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. (S,Y)
Attributes: SS
3 Credits

POLT 36400 Law and Public Policy (LA)

Gives a sense of the important place of public law in the policy-making process and examines how legal education shapes legal thinking. Considers the role of courts in forming policies related to housing, school desegregation, mental health care, prison reform, AIDS, and the environment. Contract theory is analyzed as it relates to issues like surrogate motherhood. Covers selected criminal law issues, such as those related to rape. Students evaluate the strengths and limitations of using legal approaches to the formulation of policy options. Counts as a public policy course for politics majors. Prerequisites: Two politics courses; one course in sociology, history, philosophy, economics, or introduction to law. (S,Y)
Attributes: SS
3 Credits

POLT 36500 The Politics of Health (LA)

Introduction to issues in health policy as they relate to the general organization of political life in the United States. Methods for the allocation of scarce medical resources, such as markets, political devices, and lotteries, are analyzed and compared. AIDS is examined as a major public health problem. We consider genetic and procreative issues, including the politics of in vitro fertilization, surrogate motherhood contracts, abortion, and genetic engineering. Counts as a public policy course for politics majors. Prerequisites: Two politics courses; one course in sociology, history, philosophy, or economics. (F,Y)
Attributes: SS
3 Credits

POLT 36600 Environmental Politics (LA)

Examines environmental protection (and destruction) from numerous political perspectives and in relation to various political ideologies. Looks at policy-making aspects of environmental protection. Traces the development of national and international environmental movements. Considers environmental issues in terms of race, gender, and class politics. Cross-listed with ENVS 36600; students cannot receive credit for ENVS 36600. (Y)
Attributes: ABSS, LMEL, LSCO
4 Credits

POLT 37000 Selected Topics in Public Policy (LA)

Matters of special contemporary interest to students and faculty may be developed under this course heading. This course may be repeated for up to 12 credits for selected topics on different subjects. Counts as a public policy course for politics majors. (IRR)
Attributes: SS
4 Credits

POLT 38000-38001 Internship: Politics (NLA)

Permits students to explore politics through a variety of governmental and nongovernmental work experiences. Students are expected to perform full-time work for academic credit and to submit, as part of their course obligations, a thorough written evaluative report based on their experiences. Internships may be taken at national, state, and local levels, in London under the auspices of the Ithaca College London Center, as well as in other international locations. Students must complete the H&S internship application process. Permission of instructor required. (F,Y,S)
1-12 Credits

POLT 38100-38101 Internship: International Studies (NLA)

POLT 39800 Practicum in International Governance (NLA)

Students prepare for and participate in simulated international negotiations at Model United Nations or Model European Union events. Students adopt the roles of representatives of our assigned countries, and work with other delegates to write resolutions that propose answers to the questions facing their committees. Participation in the conferences is required. Students may incur some additional costs as a result of domestic off-campus travel. International conferences will require additional fees and costs. Students must be members of the Model UN or Model EU team to be permitted to enroll. Course may be repeated for up to three credits. Prerequisites: Permission of instructor. (F-S,Y)
1 Credit

POLT 40100-40114 Seminar: Comparative and International Studies (LA)

Small group settings designed to permit intensive examination of selected topics not provided elsewhere in the curriculum. Seminar topics change from year to year. This course may be repeated for credit for selected topics on different subjects. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. Prerequisites: Junior/senior standing; one POLT course. (F-S,Y)
Attributes: SS
1-4 Credits

POLT 40200-40210 Seminar: Politics (LA)

Small group settings designed to permit intensive examination of selected topics not provided elsewhere in the curriculum. Seminar topics change from year to year. This course may be repeated for credit for selected topics on different subjects. Prerequisites: Junior/senior standing; one POLT course. (F-S,Y)
Attributes: SS
1-4 Credits

POLT 40300-40310 Tutorial: Comparative and International Studies (LA)

Individual investigation of selected topics in politics through readings, written reports, and essays under tutorial supervision. This course may be repeated for credit when topics change. Counts as a Comparative & International Studies course for politics majors and international politics minors. Prerequisites: Junior/senior standing and one POLT course.(F-S,Y)
Attributes: SS
1-4 Credits

POLT 40400-40410 Tutorial: Politics (LA)

Individual investigation of selected topics in politics through readings, written reports, and essays under tutorial supervision. This course may be repeated for credit when topics change. Prerequisites: Junior/senior standing and one POLT course. (F-S,Y)
Attributes: SS
1-4 Credits

POLT 40500-40501 Internship: Politics (NLA)

POLT 40550-40551 Internship: International Studies (NLA)

POLT 49900-49901 Directed Study: Politics (LA)

The program of study may be a reading program of materials of special interest to the student, or involve development and execution of a research project on a specific topic. Reading or research is undertaken under faculty direction. Prerequisites: Three courses in social sciences or equivalent; permission of instructor. Variable credit (1-5). (F-S,Y)
Attributes: SS
1-5 Credits

POLT 49950-49951 Directed Study: International Studies (LA)

The program of study may be a reading program of materials of special interest to the student, or involve development and execution of a research project on a specific topic. Reading or research is undertaken under faculty direction. Prerequisites: Junior/Senior standing; permission of instructor. (F-S,Y)
Attributes: SS
1-5 Credits