Political Science Concentration

Governments of Western Europe

3 credits / clock hours

A comparative examination of the political traditions of Great Britain, France, and Germany. An attempt is made to situate their governmental traditions within Western civilization.

International Relations

3 credits / clock hours

An analysis of the major forces at work in the international political process. Attention is given to international organizations and modern international political problems.

Modern Ideologies

3 credits / clock hours

A study of the phenomenon of ideological thought and its causes, characteristic of major modern social movements.

State and Local Government

3 credits / clock hours

An analysis of the political institutions of state and local government. Focuses on the state-federal relationship.

Political Economy

3 credits / clock hours

An introduction to the principles of economics and the political effects of various economic theories.

Philosophy of History

3 credits / clock hours

A course designed to aid theorizing about the nature of historical events and the meaning of history. Emphasis on Vico, Hegel, Toynbee, and Voegelin.

Focus

3 credits / clock hours

Junior year course for majors in literature, philosophy, and political science; taught by Humanities faculty. Opportunity for interdisciplinary exploration of a specific theme--such as love and its relation to society; time; freedom.

Senior Thesis

3 credits / clock hours

During the last year of study, the student presents a thesis and a formal address on a topic chosen from the major discipline. Seniors must also pass a comprehensive examination. These final tasks offer the opportunity for further review and reflection upon what has been learned and for contemplation of earlier courses in the light of later studies.