LPOL 302 - Contending Ideas and Forces in U.S. Politics (4 Credits)

Prerequisite: None
This course will examine the often opposing ideas and social forces that have shaped current U.S. political practice, beginning with debates about the nature of democracy and controversies that pre-occupied framers of the constitution-freedom, liberty, equality, and property. The course will cover the origins and development of contending political ideologies from modern liberalism and left-liberal thought to classical and neo-liberal conservatism and ideologies of the new right. Within these theoretical frameworks, students will examine a wide range of social issues, political platforms, and political formations that emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries. Particular attention will be given to examining the historical roots as well as the contemporary political expression of movements for race, gender, and economic equality. Students will also consider a number of contemporary issues that challenge conceptions of democracy: the imperial presidency, the foreign policy of pre-emption, the war on terror and civil liberties, and neo-liberalism and globalization. Finally, students will consider the political potential of new and emerging ideas and social forces.