American Politics: Principles, Processes and Powers

Catalog description

This course examines the American democracy by looking at the dynamic interaction between the founding ideals of the United States government, the institutions established by the Constitution, and the ongoing contest for power within and through those institutions. Students will learn how Congress, the Presidency and the Supreme Court shape law and public policy; how the electoral process influences the decisions of voters and political parties; and how the media, interest groups, political action committees, and public opinion impact political outcomes. Through these topics the course takes up questions such as, Who has a voice in American politics and why are some political actors more influential than others? Do the electoral and policy making processes uphold democratic values? How responsive is the United States government to public wants? How does the media influence citizens' political preferences and behavior? The course both provides a foundation for further study of politics and equips students with the capacity to act politically on their own behalf and in concert with their communities. Students are empowered to interpret and pursue their interests, rights, and opportunities within the US political system in relation to the values of democratic equality and liberty the system was organized to secure, and to influence the process through which policies that shape their lives in critical ways are made. As part of First Year Seminar requirements, students will receive brief research assignments to learn how to use library and online resources and will participated in required advising sessions to learn about Penn State degree requirements, career exploration, internships, Penn State study abroad programs, study skills, and the variety of subfields and research interests in political science.