Summer 2018 - POL 100 D100
Introduction to Politics and Government (3)
Class Number: 5993
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
May 7 – Aug 3, 2018: Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby -
Exam Times + Location:
Aug 7, 2018
Tue, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Brian Thomas
bta23@sfu.ca
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
A comprehensive introduction to the study of politics and government for both political science majors and students specializing in other disciplines. The course will explore the major concepts, methods, approaches and issues in political science, as well as the primary components of government structure and the political process. POL 101W is the Writing certified version of POL 100 and students cannot receive credit for both courses. Breadth-Social Sciences.
COURSE DETAILS:
Political Science 100 will introduce you to the key concepts and ideas of Western politics, as well as the current challenges. This course serves as the thematic and conceptual starting point for further study in any of the main areas of study in political science: Political Theory, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Canadian Politics. This course prepares you for further study in the major by providing you the tools and the opportunity to develop the analytical competency needed to pursue the major.
In this course we will examine the meaning of various key norms and ideas in political science, including but not limited to, politics, sovereignty, institutions of government, legal rights, political processes, political parties, electoral systems, international relations, multiculturalism, racism, and sexism. The mechanism through which we will come to understand these concepts and ideas is through the concept of power. That is, the study of politics is the study of contestations over power. So we will seek to understand what power is; who possesses it; whether it is shared; who has been traditionally denied it; who is now denied it; and how can it be used to influence those living under its application. Of no surprise, then, in understanding power we will also seek to understand how struggles for power relate to struggles for social justice. The course is organized around four main areas: Power, justice, and politics; the concept of power; modern political ideologies; the modern democratic state; and global politics.
There will be a 2-hour lecture and 1-hour tutorial per week. Tutorials start Week Two.
Grading
- Tutorial 15%
- Essay 30%
- Midterm 25%
- Final Exam 30%
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Robert A. Dahl, On Democracy
Eric Mintz, Politics, Power and the Common Good: An Introduction to Political Science
Department Undergraduate Notes:
Registrar Notes:
SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.
Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS