Congress and the President

Catalog description

The United States Congress and the United States Presidency have been called the “two great institutions” of American government (Polsby 1972). They represent one of the earliest and most successful experiments in democratic government. Together, their actions decisively shape policies that influence the world in which we live. The purpose of this class is to provide students with skills necessary for understanding Congressional and Presidential institutions. In addition, we will consider the behavior of actors who influence legislative and executive actions. These skills include basic game theory and quantitative political methodology, although prior knowledge of these areas is not required for the course. No Freshman, unless under special circumstances. Offered once every two years.