PADM 221 - Public Issues and Public Policy (4 Credits)

Prerequisite: None
This course will provide an overview of the major problems facing American cities and will examine the federal, state and local policies that address urban poverty and inequality. Students will explore a range of economic and social policies, including: taxation; minimum wage; social security; immigration; education; the environment; crime; social welfare; discrimination; and civil rights. Students will also examine the political and intellectual debates over policy initiatives to regulate social and private life. Finally, students will discuss pluralist and elitist perspectives on public policy and policy debate. Readings will include diverse points of view and will often emphasize developments in New York City.