POLITICAL SCIENCE 1010 Fall 2009
DR. CHANG SYLLABUS
INTRODUCTION TO POLITICS
This course is designed to introduce you to the discipline of political science and to encourage you to think intelligently about politics. No prior exposure to the subject matter is required or assumed.
We will begin by looking first at the scope of politics and of political science itself. We will then define key concepts such as power, politics, and state. This will be followed by the discussion of political ideologies. After the first mid-term, we will discuss political culture and participation, interest groups, political parties, and the role of media in politics. During the last few weeks of the semester we will identify some basic functions of government, examine the major types of governmental systems in the contemporary world, and discuss briefly the relationship between politics and economics, and politics in the world arena.
I anticipate some flexibility in the way in which we pursue the subject matter, and the time devoted to various topics. Suggestions and feedback regarding the course are welcome at any time.
REQUIREMENTS
1. Class sessions: It is indispensable to attend regularly the class sessions.
2. Reading: It is expected that you will read the appropriate material prior to class meetings.
3. Examinations: There will be two midterms and a final examination.
GRADING
The final grade will be determined as follows:
Class participation: 20%
First Midterm: 25%
Second Midterm: 25%
Final Exam: 30%
OFFICE HOURS:
I will be happy to see your during office hours or by appointment.
Office: J-105E Office Phone: 908-737-3998 email –
Office Hours: Tuesday, 9:45- 11:15 AM,
Wednesday, 9:00 - 11:00 AM and
Thursday, 9:45 - 11:15 AM.
BOOK:
Book required for purchase (available at the bookstore on campus):
Kay Lawson The Human Polity.
Dates to Remember:
Sept. 9 - Last day to WD with 100% refund.
Sept. 16 - Last day to WD with 75% refund
Sept. 23 - Last day to declare course as an audit, P/F option.
Sept. 23 - Last day to WD with 50% refund, declare course as PF/Audit
Oct. 30 - Last day to withdraw with WD grade.
Students are responsible for becoming familiar with, and will be held accountable for, the Kean University Academic Integrity Policy and the Student Code of Conduct. The Academic Integrity Policy is available at www.kean.edu/forms/AcademicIntegrity,pdf or the Web site for The guide at www.kean.edu/publications/TheGuide2007.pdf., and the Student Code of Conduct is available at www.kean.edu/~conduct or the Web site for The Guide at www.kean.edu/publications/Theguide2007.pdf.
OUTLINE OF THE COURSE
SUBJECT READING ASSIGNMENT
1. Introduction Ch. 1
2. Concepts of Power and Politics Ch. 2
3. Nature and Types of Political Ideology Ch. 2
REVIEW AND FIRST MIDTERM
4. Political Socialization and Political Culture Ch. 3
5. Motives and Modes of Political Participation Ch. 4
6. The Politics of Interest Groups Ch. 5
7. Political Parties Ch. 6
REVIEW & SECOND MIDTERM
8. Functions and Types of Government Ch. 8
9. Justice Under the Law Ch. 11
10. Accessible Government Ch. 12
11. International Anarchy and National Insecurity Ch. 13
REVIEW AND FINAL EXAM