Course Descriptions
This page displays the schedule of Bryn Mawr courses in this department for this academic year. It also displays descriptions of courses offered by the department during the last four academic years.
For information about courses offered by other Bryn Mawr departments and programs or about courses offered by Haverford and Swarthmore Colleges, please consult the Course Guides page.
For information about the Academic Calendar, including the dates of first and second quarter courses, please visit the College's master calendar.
Spring 2012
| COURSE |
TITLE |
SCHEDULE/ UNITS |
MEETING TYPE TIMES/DAYS |
LOCATION |
INSTRUCTOR(S) |
| POLS B101-001 |
Introduction to Political Science |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 11:15 AM-12:45 PM TTH |
Taylor Hall G |
Elkins,J., Ross,M. |
| POLS B121-001 |
Introduction to American Politics |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 12:45 PM- 2:15 PM TTH |
Dalton Hall 119 |
Golden,M. |
| POLS B228-001 |
Introduction to Political Philosophy: Ancient and Early Modern |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 11:30 AM- 1:00 PM MW |
Taylor Hall D |
Salkever,S. |
|
LEC: 11:30 AM-12:30 PM F |
Dalton Hall 6 |
|
| POLS B240-001 |
Environmental Ethics |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 2:30 PM MW |
Taylor Hall B |
Brook,A. |
| POLS B241-001 |
The Politics of International Law and Institutions |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 2:15 PM- 3:45 PM TTH |
Dalton Hall 2 |
Allen,M. |
| POLS B243-001 |
African and Caribbean Perspectives in World Politics |
Semester / 1 |
LEC: 11:30 AM- 1:00 PM MW |
Dalton Hall 25 |
Allen,M. |
| POLS B244-001 |
Great Empires of the Ancient Near East |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 12:45 PM- 2:15 PM TTH |
Carpenter Library 21 |
Ataç,M. |
| POLS B262-001 |
Who Believes What and Why: the Sociology of Public Opinion |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 9:45 AM-11:15 AM TTH |
Dalton Hall 119 |
Wright,N. |
| POLS B264-001 |
Politics of Global Commodities |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 9:45 AM-11:15 AM TTH |
Thomas Hall 104 |
Hoffman,P. |
| POLS B282-001 |
The Exotic Other: Gender and Sexuality in the Middle East |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 4:00 PM M |
Carpenter Library 21 |
Harrold,D. |
| POLS B287-001 |
Media and Politics: The Middle East Transformed |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 7:00 PM- 8:30 PM MW |
Dalton Hall 300 |
Harrold,D. |
| POLS B327-001 |
Political Philosophy in the 20th Century |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 7:00 PM-10:00 PM T |
Dalton Hall 25 |
Salkever,S., Salkever,S., Salkever,S. |
|
LEC: 10:00 AM-11:00 AM TH |
Dalton Hall 212A |
|
|
LEC: 10:00 AM-11:00 AM F |
Dalton Hall 10 |
|
| POLS B379-001 |
The United Nations and World Order |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 4:00 PM W |
Dalton Hall 1 |
Hoffman,P. |
| POLS B380-001 |
Persons, Morality and Modernity |
Semester / 1 |
|
|
|
| POLS B385-001 |
Democracy and Development |
Semester / 1 |
LEC: 1:30 PM- 4:00 PM W |
Dalton Hall 212A |
Rock,M., Ross,M. |
| POLS B393-001 |
U.S. Welfare Politics: Theory and Practice |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 3:30 PM M |
Dalton Hall 1 |
Schram,S. |
| POLS B399-001 |
Senior Essay |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 2:00 PM- 4:00 PM W |
Dalton Hall 6 |
Dept. staff, TBA |
| POLS B403-001 |
Supervised Work |
Semester / 1 |
|
|
Dept. staff, TBA |
| POLS B403-001 |
Supervised Work |
Semester / 1 |
|
|
Dept. staff, TBA |
| POLS B416-001 |
Central Texts of Western Pol Tradition: Discussion Leader |
Semester / 0.5 |
|
|
|
Fall 2012
| COURSE |
TITLE |
SCHEDULE/ UNITS |
MEETING TYPE TIMES/DAYS |
LOCATION |
INSTRUCTOR(S) |
| POLS B101-001 |
Introduction to Political Science |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 9:45 AM-11:15 AM TTH |
Taylor Hall G |
Elkins,J. |
| POLS B101-002 |
Introduction to Political Science |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 2:30 PM- 4:00 PM MW |
Taylor Hall F |
Harrold,D. |
| POLS B211-001 |
Politics of Humanitarianism |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 9:45 AM-11:15 AM TTH |
Dalton Hall 2 |
Hoffman,P. |
| POLS B220-001 |
Constitutional Law |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 12:45 PM- 2:15 PM TTH |
Taylor Hall G |
Elkins,J. |
| POLS B231-001 |
Introduction to Political Philosophy: Modern |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 2:15 PM- 3:45 PM TTH |
Taylor Hall E |
Salkever,S. |
| POLS B250-001 |
International Politics |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 2:30 PM- 4:00 PM MW |
Dalton Hall 212E |
Hoffman,P. |
| POLS B251-001 |
Politics and the Mass Media |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 9:45 AM-11:15 AM TTH |
Carpenter Library 21 |
Chomsky,D. |
| POLS B259-001 |
Comparative Social Movements in Latin America |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 12:45 PM- 2:15 PM TTH |
Taylor Hall D |
Marquez,E. |
| POLS B274-001 |
Education Politics & Policy |
Semester / 1 |
LEC: 2:15 PM- 3:45 PM TTH |
Dalton Hall 6 |
Golden,M. |
| POLS B283-001 |
Introduction to the Politics of the Modern Middle East and North Africa |
Semester / 1 |
LEC: 1:00 PM- 2:30 PM MW |
Taylor Hall E |
Harrold,D. |
| POLS B320-001 |
Greek Political Philosophy: Ethics and Politics |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 11:30 AM- 1:00 PM MW |
Dalton Hall 10 |
Salkever,S. |
| POLS B375-001 |
Women, Work, and Family |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 3:30 PM F |
Dalton Hall 212A |
Golden,M. |
| POLS B391-001 |
International Political Economy |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 12:00 PM- 2:00 PM W |
Dalton Hall 25 |
Allen,M. |
| POLS B392-001 |
State in Theory and History |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 3:30 PM T |
Dalton Hall 212E |
Hoffman,P. |
| POLS B398-001 |
Senior Conference |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 2:00 PM- 4:00 PM W |
|
Dept. staff, TBA |
Spring 2013
| COURSE |
TITLE |
SCHEDULE/ UNITS |
MEETING TYPE TIMES/DAYS |
LOCATION |
INSTRUCTOR(S) |
| POLS B101-001 |
Introduction to Political Science |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 11:15 AM-12:45 PM TTH |
Thomas Hall 224 |
Allen,M. |
| POLS B222-001 |
Introduction to Environmental Issues: Policy Making in Comparative Perspective |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 2:30 PM MW |
Dalton Hall 119 |
Hager,C. |
| POLS B228-001 |
Introduction to Political Philosophy: Ancient and Early Modern |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 2:30 PM MW |
Thomas Hall 104 |
Salkever,S. |
| POLS B241-001 |
The Politics of International Law and Institutions |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 2:15 PM- 3:45 PM TTH |
Dalton Hall 2 |
Allen,M. |
| POLS B253-001 |
Feminist Theory |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 12:45 PM- 2:15 PM TTH |
Thomas Hall 118 |
Koggel,C. |
| POLS B264-001 |
Politics of Global Commodities |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 9:45 AM-11:15 AM TTH |
Dalton Hall 6 |
Hoffman,P. |
| POLS B286-001 |
Themes in British Empire:: Birth of Nations-Nationalism and Decolonization |
Semester / 1 |
LEC: 12:45 PM- 2:15 PM TTH |
Taylor Hall B |
Kale,M. |
| POLS B310-001 |
Comparative Public Policy |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 3:30 PM TH |
Dalton Hall 212E |
Hager,C. |
| POLS B316-001 |
The Politics of Ethnic, Racial, and National Groups |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 4:00 PM T |
Dalton Hall 212E |
Ross,M. |
| POLS B344-001 |
Development Ethics |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 2:30 PM MW |
Thomas Hall 118 |
Koggel,C. |
| POLS B358-001 |
Political Psychology of Group Identification |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 9:45 AM-11:15 AM TTH |
Bettws Y Coed 106 |
McCauley,C., Ross,M. |
| POLS B365-001 |
Erotica: Love and Art in Plato and Shakespeare |
Semester / 1 |
LEC: 1:00 PM- 4:00 PM T |
English House II |
Hedley,J., Salkever,S. |
| POLS B379-001 |
The United Nations and World Order |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 4:00 PM W |
Thomas Hall 102 |
Hoffman,P. |
| POLS B383-001 |
Two Hundred Years of Islamic Reform, Radicalism, and Revolution |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 4:00 PM M |
Dalton Hall 212A |
Harrold,D. |
| POLS B385-001 |
Democracy and Development |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 1:00 PM- 4:00 PM W |
Dalton Hall 300 |
Rock,M., Ross,M. |
| POLS B393-001 |
U.S. Welfare Politics: Theory and Practice |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 7:00 PM-10:00 PM M |
Dalton Hall 2 |
Schram,S. |
| POLS B399-001 |
Senior Essay |
Semester / 1 |
Lecture: 2:00 PM- 4:00 PM W |
Dalton Hall 2 |
Dept. staff, TBA |
2012-13 Catalog Data
POLS
B101
Introduction to Political Science
Fall 2012, Spring 2013
This course, which is required of all majors, is designed to introduce students to the study of politics in general and to the four thematic categories around which the major is structured: identity and difference, policy formation and political action, interdependence and conflict, and political theory. The course introduces different but related approaches to understanding political phenomena, and focuses in particular on some central questions and problems of democracy politics.
Division I: Social Science
Back to top
POLS
B111
Introduction to Peace and Conflict Studies
Not offered 2012-13
A broad and interdisciplinary overview of the study of conflict management. Areas to be introduced will include interpersonal conflict and conflict management, alternative dispute resolution and the law, community conflict and mediation, organizational, intergroup, and international conflict, and conflict management. This course will also serve as a foundation course for students in or considering the peace and conflict studies concentration.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-listed as ANTH B111
Counts toward Peace and Conflict Studies
Back to top
POLS
B121
Introduction to American Politics
Not offered 2012-13
An introduction to the major features and characteristics of the American political system. Features examined include voting and elections; the institutions of government (Congress, the Presidency, the courts and the bureaucracy); the policy-making process; and the role of groups (interest groups, women, and ethnic and racial minorities) in the political process. Enrollment is limited to 35 students.
Division I: Social Science
Back to top
POLS
B131
Comparative Politics
Not offered 2012-13
An introduction to the comparative study of political systems. A sampling of major questions addressed by comparative approaches such as why authority structures differ across countries; how major issues such as inequality, environmental degradation, and ethno-nationalism arise in different polities, and why governmental responses to those issues differ so widely. Comparisons are made across time and space. Emphasis is placed on institutional, cultural, and historical explanations. Enrollment is limited to 35 students.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-Cultural Analysis (CC)
Back to top
POLS
B205
European Politics: Between Unification and Dissolution
Not offered 2012-13
An analysis of the accelerating process of European unification and the increasing political divisiveness within individual European countries. We focus on the evolution of the state-society relationship in selected countries and the emergence of new sources of conflict in recent years. These are placed in the context of a changing international scene: the eastward expansion of the European Union, European social and economic unity and the introduction of the Euro.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-Cultural Analysis (CC)
Back to top
POLS
B206
Conflict and Conflict Management: A Cross-Cultural Approach
Not offered 2012-13
This course examines cross-cultural differences in the levels and forms of conflict and its management through a wide range of cases and alternative theoretical perspectives. Conflicts of interest range from the interpersonal to the international levels and an important question is the relevance of conflict and its management in small-scale societies as a way to understand political conflict and dispute settlement in the United States and modern industrial settings. Prerequisite: one course in political science, anthropology, or sociology.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-Cultural Analysis (CC)
Cross-listed as ANTH B206
Counts toward Peace and Conflict Studies
Back to top
POLS
B211
Politics of Humanitarianism
Fall 2012
This course examines the international politics and history that underlie the ideas, social movement, and system of organizations designed to regulate the conduct of war and improve the welfare of those victimizes by war. It begins with ethical, legal and organizational foundations, and then examines to post-Cold War cases and beyond. Topics include just war theory, international humanitarian law, humanitarian action and intervention, and transitional justice. Prerequisites: one class in Political Science or comparable course by permission of the instructor.
Division I: Social Science
Counts toward Peace and Conflict Studies
Back to top
POLS
B217
The State and the Transformation of Conflict
Not offered 2012-13
State institutions have a profound effect on conflicts. State sponsored conflicts may be more violent, more deadly and transform society. The state's power may affect conflict management, enforcing agreements and providing incentives for cooperation. Weak states may not manage difference or conflict; ineffective states may be bypassed by citizens seeking protection or to plunder assets. Readings include theoretical texts as well as empirical accounts of the state's role in structuring and enforcing conflict management. Prerequisite: One course in Political Science or social science.
Division I: Social Science
Counts toward Peace and Conflict Studies
Back to top
POLS
B220
Constitutional Law
Fall 2012
Through a reading of (mostly) Supreme Court cases and other materials, this course takes up some central theoretical questions concerning the role of constitutional principles and constitutional review in mediating the relationship between public and private power with respect to both difference and hierarchy.
Division I: Social Science
Critical Interpretation (CI)
Back to top
POLS
B222
Introduction to Environmental Issues: Policy Making in Comparative Perspective
Spring 2013
An exploration of the ways in which different cultural, economic, and political settings have shaped issue emergence and policy making. We examine the politics of particular environmental issues in selected countries and regions. We also assess the prospects for international cooperation in solving global environmental problems such as climate change.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-Cultural Analysis (CC)
Cross-listed as CITY B222
Counts toward Environmental Studies
Back to top
POLS
B225
Global Ethical Issues
Not offered 2012-13
The need for a critical analysis of what justice is and requires has become urgent in a context of increasing globalization, conflict and war, poverty and environmental devastation. This course examines prevailing theories and issues of justice as well as approaches by non-western, post-colonial, feminist, race, class, and disability theorists. Counts toward International Studies Minor and Gender and Sexuality concentration.
Division III: Humanities
Cross-listed as PHIL B225
Counts toward Gender and Sexuality Studies
Counts toward International Studies Major
Back to top
POLS
B228
Introduction to Political Philosophy: Ancient and Early Modern
Spring 2013
An introduction to the fundamental problems of political philosophy, especially the relationship between political life and the human good or goods. Readings from Aristotle, Hobbes, Machiavelli, Plato, and Rousseau.
Division III: Humanities
Critical Interpretation (CI)
Cross-listed as PHIL B228
Back to top
POLS
B231
Introduction to Political Philosophy: Modern
Fall 2012
A continuation of POLS 228, although 228 is not a prerequisite. Particular attention is given to the various ways in which the concept of freedom is used in explaining political life. Readings from Hegel, Locke, Marx, J.S. Mill, and Nietzsche.
Division III: Humanities
Critical Interpretation (CI)
Cross-listed as PHIL B231
Back to top
POLS
B238
Science, Technology, and the Good Life
Not offered 2012-13
This course considers questions concerning what is science, what is technology, and what is their relationship to each other and to the domains of ethics and politics. We will consider how modern science defined itself in its opposition to Aristotelian science. We will examine the Cartesian and Baconian scientific models and the self-understanding of these models with regard to ethics and politics. Developments in the philosophy of science will be considered, e.g., positivism, phenomenology, feminism, sociology of science. Biotechnology and information technology illustrate fundamental questions. The "science wars" of the 1990s provide debates concerning science, technology, and the good life.
Division III: Humanities
Cross-listed as PHIL B238
Back to top
POLS
B240
Environmental Ethics
Not offered 2012-13
This course surveys rights- and justice-based justifications for ethical positions on the environment. It examines approaches such as stewardship, intrinsic value, land ethic, deep ecology, ecofeminism, Asian and aboriginal. It explores issues such as obligations to future generations, to nonhumans and to the biosphere.
Division III: Humanities
Cross-listed as PHIL B240
Counts toward Environmental Studies
Back to top
POLS
B241
The Politics of International Law and Institutions
Spring 2013
An introduction to international law, which assumes a working knowledge of modern world history and politics since World War II. The origins of modern international legal norms in philosophy and political necessity are explored, showing the schools of thought to which the understandings of these origins give rise. Significant cases are used to illustrate various principles and problems. Prerequisite: POLS 141.
Division I: Social Science
Critical Interpretation (CI)
Counts toward International Studies Major
Back to top
POLS
B243
African and Caribbean Perspectives in World Politics
Not offered 2012-13
This course makes African and Caribbean voices audible as they create or adopt visions of the world that explain their positions and challenges in world politics. Students learn analytical tools useful in understanding other parts of the world. Prerequisite: POLS 141.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-Cultural Analysis (CC)
Counts toward Africana Studies
Back to top
POLS
B244
Great Empires of the Ancient Near East
Not offered 2012-13
A survey of the history, material culture, political and religious ideologies of, and interactions among, the five great empires of the ancient Near East of the second and first millennia B.C.E.: New Kingdom Egypt, the Hittite Empire in Anatolia, the Assyrian and Babylonian Empires in Mesopotamia, and the Persian Empire in Iran.
Division III: Humanities
Cross-Cultural Analysis (CC)
Inquiry into the Past (IP)
Cross-listed as ARCH B244
Cross-listed as CITY B244
Cross-listed as HIST B244
Back to top
POLS
B245
Philosophy of Law
Not offered 2012-13
Introduces students to a variety of questions in the philosophy of law. Readings will be concerned with the nature of law, the character of law as a system, the ethical character of law, and the relationship of law to politics, power, authority, and society. Readings will include abstract philosophical arguments about the concept of law, as well as theoretical arguments about the nature of law as they arise within specific contexts, and judicial cases. Most or all of the specific issues discussed will be taken from Anglo-American law, although the general issues considered are not limited to those legal systems.
Division I: Social Science
Critical Interpretation (CI)
Cross-listed as PHIL B245
Back to top
POLS
B250
International Politics
Fall 2012
An introduction to international relations, exploring its main subdivisions and theoretical approaches. Phenomena and problems in world politics examined include systems of power management, imperialism, globalization, war, bargaining, and peace. Problems and institutions of international economy and international law are also addressed. This course assumes a reasonable knowledge of modern world history.
Division I: Social Science
Counts toward International Studies Major
Counts toward Peace and Conflict Studies
Back to top
POLS
B251
Politics and the Mass Media
Fall 2012
A consideration of the mass media as a pervasive fact of U.S. political life and how they influence American politics. Topics include how the media have altered American political institutions and campaigns, how selective attention to particular issues and exclusion of others shape public concerns, and the conditions under which the media directly influence the content of political beliefs and the behavior of citizens. Prerequisite: one course in political science, preferably POLS 121.
Division I: Social Science
Back to top
POLS
B253
Feminist Theory
Spring 2013
Division III: Humanities
Cross-listed as PHIL B252
Counts toward Gender and Sexuality Studies
Back to top
POLS
B259
Comparative Social Movements in Latin America
Fall 2012
An examination of resistance movements to the power of the state and globalization in three Latin American societies: Mexico, Columbia, and Peru. The course explores the political, legal, and socio-economic factors underlying contemporary struggles for human and social rights, and the role of race, ethnicity, and coloniality play in these struggles.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-listed as SOCL B259
Cross-listed as CITY B220
Back to top
POLS
B262
Who Believes What and Why: the Sociology of Public Opinion
Not offered 2012-13
Division I: Social Science
Cross-listed as SOCL B262
Counts toward Gender and Sexuality Studies
Back to top
POLS
B264
Politics of Global Commodities
Spring 2013
This class critically analyzes the international politics that underpin the production and distribution of global commodities. Marketization and privatization pressures that have produced economic arrangements are examined for their impact in altering governance systems, distorting markets and development, and fomenting conflicts. The course starts with concepts, theories, and history, and then investigates key case studies. Prerequisites: one class in Political Science (preferably International Politics or International Political Economy), comparable coursework, or by permission of the instructor.
Division I: Social Science
Back to top
POLS
B273
Race and the Law in the American Context
Not offered 2012-13
An examination of the intersection of race and law, evaluating the legal regulations of race, the history and meanings of race, and how law, history and the Supreme Court helped shape and produce those meanings. It will draw on materials from law, history, public policy, and critical race theory.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-listed as SOCL B273
Back to top
POLS
B274
Education Politics & Policy
Fall 2012
This course will examine education policy through the lens of federalism and federalism through a case study of education policy. The dual aims are to enhance our understanding of this specific policy area and our understanding of the impact that our federal system of government has on policy effectiveness.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-listed as EDUC B274
Cross-listed as SOCL B274
Back to top
POLS
B278
Oil, Politics, Society, and Economy
Not offered 2012-13
Examines the role oil has played in transforming societies, in shaping national politics, and in the distribution of wealth within and between nations. Rentier states and authoritarianism, the historical relationships between oil companies and states, monopolies, boycotts, sanctions and demands for succession, and issues of social justice mark the political economy of oil.
Division I: Social Science
Counts toward Environmental Studies
Back to top
POLS
B282
The Exotic Other: Gender and Sexuality in the Middle East
Not offered 2012-13
This course is concerned with the meanings of gender and sexuality in the Middle East, with particular attention to the construction of tradition, its performance, reinscription, and transformation, and to Western interpretations and interactions. Prerequisite: one course in social science or humanities. Previous gender or Middle East course is a plus.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-Cultural Analysis (CC)
Critical Interpretation (CI)
Counts toward Gender and Sexuality Studies
Counts toward Middle East Studies
Back to top
POLS
B283
Introduction to the Politics of the Modern Middle East and North Africa
Fall 2012
This course is a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the politics of the region, using works of history, political science, political economy, film, and fiction as well as primary sources. The course will concern itself with three broad areas: the legacy of colonialism and the importance of international forces; the role of Islam in politics; and the political and social effects of particular economic conditions, policies, and practices.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-Cultural Analysis (CC)
Cross-listed as HEBR B283
Cross-listed as HIST B283
Counts toward Middle East Studies
Back to top
POLS
B286
Themes in British Empire:
Section 001 (Spring 2013): Birth of Nations-Nationalism and Decolonization
Spring 2013
Current topic description: This course explores the politics and genealogies on nationalist movements in the Indian subcontinent from the late 19th century through the establishment of sovereign nations from 1947-72, considering the implications and legacies of empire, nationalism and anti-colonialism for the nations and peoples of the subcontinent from Independence through the present.
Division I or Division III
Cross-Cultural Analysis (CC)
Inquiry into the Past (IP)
Cross-listed as HIST B286
Cross-listed as CITY B286
Back to top
POLS
B287
Media and Politics: The Middle East Transformed
Not offered 2012-13
The events of 2011 transformed the Middle East, overthrowing or threatening regimes across the region. The course will focus on the media technologies, the political actors, and international events that produced these changes, as well as examine works on political transitions, revolutions, and social movements. Prerequisite: A previous social science or history course is strongly recommended, or a previous course on media.
Division I: Social Science
Counts toward Middle East Studies
Back to top
POLS
B288
The Political Economy of the Middle East and North Africa
Not offered 2012-13
This comparative approach considers historical constructions, the power of economic ideas, domestic politics and resources, and international regimes. Specific areas of focus include theories that seek to explain the economic/political conditions, left, nationalist and liberal, as well as the exceptional growth of the Gulf economies. Prerequisite: at least one other course on the Middle East or a strong area expertise in another region such as Latin America or China with permission of the instructor.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-listed as HIST B288
Counts toward Middle East Studies
Back to top
POLS
B310
Comparative Public Policy
Spring 2013
A comparison of policy processes and outcomes across space and time. Focusing on particular issues such as health care, domestic security, water and land use, we identify institutional, historical, and cultural factors that shape policies. We also examine the growing importance of international-level policy making and the interplay between international and domestic pressures on policy makers. Prerequisite is one course in Political Science or public policy.
Counts toward Environmental Studies
Back to top
POLS
B316
The Politics of Ethnic, Racial, and National Groups
Spring 2013
An analysis of ethnic and racial conflict and cooperation that will compare and contrast the experiences of racial minorities in the United States and Muslim minorities in Europe. Particular attention is paid to the processes of group identification and political organization; the politicization of racial and ethnic identity; patterns of conflict and cooperation between minorities and the majority population over time; and different paths to citizenship. The course will emphasize how the politics of differentiation has similarities across setting and historical periods as well as important differences
Counts toward Peace and Conflict Studies
Back to top
POLS
B320
Greek Political Philosophy: Ethics and Politics
Fall 2012
Topics in Greek Political Philosophy. Topic for Fall 2012: Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics and Politics A careful reading of the Nicomachean Ethics and the Politics, treated as a single series of lectures designed to lead its immediate Greek audience (the equivalent of Socrates' interlocutors in Plato)--and perhaps us as well--more deeply into the questions and problems that are Aristotle's theoretical basis for the paradigmatically human activities of practical reason (phronêsis) and thoughtful choice (prohairesis--see NE 6.1, 1139b). There will be some additional readings from Aristotle, from Aristotle's Greek contemporaries and predecessors (including Plato and Thucydides), and from recent work designed to bring Aristotelian perspectives to bear on the moral and political issues of our own time. Prerequisites: At least two semesters of philosophy or political theory, including some work with Greek texts, or consent of the instructor.
Cross-listed as PHIL B321
Back to top
POLS
B321
Technology and Politics
Not offered 2012-13
An analysis of the complex role of technology in political and social life. We focus on the relationship between technological development and democratic governance. Discussion of theoretical approaches is supplemented by case studies of particular issues, such as electoral politics, warfare and terrorism, social networking and citizen mobilization, climate change, agriculture and food safety.
Cross-listed as CITY B321
Counts toward Environmental Studies
Back to top
POLS
B327
Political Philosophy in the 20th Century
Not offered 2012-13
A study of 20th- and 21st-century extensions of three traditions in Western political philosophy: the adherents of the German and English ideas of freedom and the founders of classical naturalism. Authors read include Hannah Arendt, Michel Foucault, Jurgen Habermas, and John Rawls. Topics include the relationship of individual rationality and political authority, the "crisis of modernity," and the debate concerning contemporary democratic citizenship. Prerequisites: POLS 228 and 231, or PHIL 101 and 201. Enrollment is limited to 18 students.
Cross-listed as PHIL B327
Back to top
POLS
B333
Transformations in American Politics, 1955-2000
Not offered 2012-13
The American political system has changed dramatically over the past 60 years. This seminar examines the ways in which American political institutions and processes have been transformed -- by design and by accident-- and the causes and consequences of those changes. Special attention will be paid to the effect that these changes have had on the democratic character of the American political system and on its ability to govern.
Cross-listed as CITY B333
Back to top
POLS
B344
Development Ethics
Spring 2013
This course explores the meaning of and moral issues raised by development. In what direction and by what means should a society "develop"? What role, if any, does the globalization of markets and capitalism play in processes of development and in systems of discrimination on the basis of factors such as race and gender? Answers to these sorts of questions will be explored through an examination of some of the most prominent theorists and recent literature. Prerequisites: a philosophy, political theory or economics course or permission of the instructor.
Division III: Humanities
Cross-listed as PHIL B344
Counts toward Gender and Sexuality Studies
Counts toward International Studies Major
Back to top
POLS
B347
Advanced Issues in Peace and Conflict Studies: Utopias, Dystopias, and Peace
Not offered 2012-13
An in-depth examination of crucial issues and particular cases of interest to advanced students in peace and conflict studies through common readings and student projects. Various important theories of conflict and conflict management are compared and students undertake semester-long field research. The second half of the semester focuses on student research topics with continued exploration of conflict-resolution theories and research methods. Prerequisite: POLS 206, 111, or Haverford's POLS 247.
Cross-listed as ANTH B347
Counts toward Peace and Conflict Studies
Back to top
POLS
B348
Culture and Ethnic Conflict
Not offered 2012-13
An examination of the role of culture in the origin, escalation, and settlement of ethnic conflicts. This course examines the politics of culture and how it constrains and offers opportunities for ethnic conflict and cooperation. The role of narratives, rituals, and symbols is emphasized in examining political contestation over cultural representations and expressions such as parades, holy sites, public dress, museums, monuments, and language in culturally framed ethnic conflicts from all regions of the world. Prerequisites: two courses in the social sciences.
Cross-listed as CITY B348
Counts toward Peace and Conflict Studies
Back to top
POLS
B352
Feminism and Philosophy
Not offered 2012-13
Cross-listed as PHIL B352
Back to top
POLS
B354
Comparative Social Movements
Not offered 2012-13
A consideration of the conceptualizations of power and "legitimate" and "illegitimate" participation, the political opportunity structure facing potential activists, the mobilizing resources available to them, and the cultural framing within which these processes occur. Specific attention is paid to recent movements within and across countries, such as feminist, environmental, and anti-globalization movements, and to emerging forms of citizen mobilization, including transnational and global networks, electronic mobilization, and collaborative policymaking institutions.
Cross-listed as SOCL B354
Counts toward Environmental Studies
Back to top
POLS
B358
Political Psychology of Group Identification
Spring 2013
This seminar will explore the common interests of psychologists and political scientists in the phenomena of group identification. The focus will be identification with ethnic and national groups, with special attention to the ways in which research on small-group dynamics can help us understand identification and conflict for these larger groups. The seminar will review major theories of group identity and examine several historical or current cases of successful and unsuccessful development of national identity. Prerequisite: PSYC 208 or two semesters of political science.
Cross-listed as PSYC B358
Counts toward Peace and Conflict Studies
Back to top
POLS
B365
Erotica: Love and Art in Plato and Shakespeare
Spring 2013
The course explores the relationship between love and art, "eros" and "poesis," through in-depth study of Plato's "Phaedus" and "Symposium," Shakespeare's "As You Like It" and "Antony and Cleopatra," and essays by modern commentators (including David Halperin, Anne Carson, Martha Nussbaum, Marjorie Garber, and Stanley Cavell). We will also read Shakespeare's Sonnets and "Romeo and Juliet."
Division III: Humanities
Cross-listed as ENGL B365
Cross-listed as COML B365
Cross-listed as PHIL B365
Counts toward Gender and Sexuality Studies
Back to top
POLS
B371
Topics in Legal and Political Philosophy
Not offered 2012-13
This is a topic course. Topics vary.
Division I or Division III
Cross-listed as PHIL B371
Back to top
POLS
B375
Women, Work, and Family
Fall 2012
As the number of women participating in the paid workforce who are also mothers exceeds 50 percent, it becomes increasingly important to study the issues raised by these dual roles. This seminar will examine the experiences of working and nonworking mothers in the United States, the roles of fathers, the impact of working mothers on children, and the policy implications of women, work, and family.
Cross-listed as SOCL B375
Counts toward Child and Family Studies
Counts toward Gender and Sexuality Studies
Back to top
POLS
B379
The United Nations and World Order
Spring 2013
Initially founded in 1945 to address the challenges of international armed aggression, the United Nations has since evolved, and is now charged with confronting a wide range of threats, including atrocities, poverty, hunger, disease, and climate change. This class examines the organization's pre-eminent role in international peace and security, economic development, and human rights and humanitarian affairs. Prerequisite: a year of Political Science or Peace and Conflict Studies courses or permission of the instructor. Enrollment is limited to 18 students.
Division I: Social Science
Counts toward Peace and Conflict Studies
Back to top
POLS
B380
Persons, Morality and Modernity
Not offered 2012-13
What demands does the modern world impose on those who live in it? What kinds of persons does the modern world bring into being? What kinds of ethical claims can that world make on us? What is the relationship between public and private morality, and between each of us as public citizens and private persons? This course explores such questions through an examination of a variety of texts in political theory and philosophy.
Cross-listed as PHIL B380
Back to top
POLS
B381
Nietzsche, Self and Morality
Not offered 2012-13
This course examines Nietzsche's thought, with particular focus on questions concerning the nature of the self and morality. The texts for the course are drawn mostly from Nietzsche's own writing, but these are complemented by some contemporary work in moral philosophy and philosophy of mind that has a Nietzschean influence.
Cross-listed as PHIL B381
Back to top
POLS
B382
Religious Fundamentalism in the Global Era
Not offered 2012-13
Through a comparison of Jewish, Islamic, Christian and Hindu political movements, the course seeks to investigate the religious turn in national and transnational contexts. We will also seek to find commonalities and differences in religious movements, and religious regimes, while considering the aspects of globalization which usher in new kinds of transnational affiliation. Prerequisite: An introductory course in Anthropology, Political Science or History or permission of the instructor.
Division I or Division III
Cross-listed as ANTH B382
Cross-listed as HIST B382
Counts toward Middle East Studies
Counts toward Peace and Conflict Studies
Back to top
POLS
B383
Two Hundred Years of Islamic Reform, Radicalism, and Revolution
Spring 2013
This course will examine the transformation of Islamic politics in the past two hundred years, emphasizing historical accounts, comparative analysis of developments in different parts of the Islamic world. Topics covered include the rationalist Salafy movement; the so-called conservative movements (Sanussi of Libya, the Mahdi in the Sudan, and the Wahhabi movement in Arabia); the Caliphate movement; contemporary debates over Islamic constitutions; among others. The course is not restricted to the Middle East or Arab world. Prerequisites: a course on Islam and modern European history, or an earlier course on the Modern Middle East or 19th-century India, or permission of instructor.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-listed as HIST B383
Counts toward Middle East Studies
Back to top
POLS
B385
Democracy and Development
Spring 2013
From 1974 to the late 1990's the number of democracies grew from 39 to 117. This "third wave," the collapse of communism and developmental successes in East Asia have led some to argue the triumph of democracy and markets. Since the late 1990's, democracy's third wave has stalled, and some fear a reverse wave and democratic breakdowns. We will question this phenomenon through the disciplines of economics, history, political science and sociology drawing from theoretical, case study and classical literature. Prerequisite: one year of study in political science or economics.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-listed as ECON B385
Counts toward International Studies Major
Counts toward Peace and Conflict Studies
Back to top
POLS
B387
Politics, Markets and the Presidency of Barack Obama
Not offered 2012-13
An in-depth examination of the changing relationship of the state and the market in the U.S. today, the course uses history, theory and empirical research to examine whether the public policies being enacted are producing a fundamental shift in the U. S. political economy. The course centers on the implication for the relationship of democracy to capitalism. Prerequisite: POLS B121.
Division I: Social Science
Back to top
POLS
B391
International Political Economy
Fall 2012
This seminar examines the growing importance of economic issues in world politics and traces the development of the modern world economy from its origins in colonialism and the industrial revolution, through to the globalization of recent decades. Major paradigms in political economy are critically examined. Aspects of and issues in international economic relations such as development, finance, trade, migration, and foreign investment are examined in the light of selected approaches. One course in International Politics or Economics is required. Preference is given to seniors although juniors are accepted.
Counts toward International Studies Major
Back to top
POLS
B392
State in Theory and History
Fall 2012
This class connects the fields of historical sociology and international relations to survey the roots of states as the predominant form of political authority, to assess its behavior in global affairs, and to consider its future. Concepts include: class coalitions, democracy, capitalism, socialism, authoritarianism, revolutions, international organizations, and empires. Prerequisites: two courses in Political Science, or Peace and Conflict Studies, or permission of the instructor. Enrollment is limited to 18 students.
Division I: Social Science
Back to top
POLS
B393
U.S. Welfare Politics: Theory and Practice
Spring 2013
Major theoretical perspectives concerning the welfare state with a focus on social policy politics, including recent welfare reforms and how in an era of globalization there has been a turn to a more restrictive system of social provision. Special attention is paid to the ways class, race, and gender are involved in making of social welfare policy and the role of social welfare policy in reinforcing class, race, and gender inequities. Prerequisite: POLS B121 or SOCL B102.
Division I: Social Science
Cross-listed as SOCL B393
Counts toward Gender and Sexuality Studies
Back to top
POLS
B398
Senior Conference
Required of senior majors. In weekly group meetings as well as individual tutorials, faculty work with students on research strategies, on refining research topics, and on supervising research progress for the senior thesis.
Back to top
POLS
B399
Senior Essay
Back to top
POLS
B403
Supervised Work
Back to top
POLS
B403
Supervised Work
Back to top
POLS
B416
Central Texts of Western Pol Tradition: Discussion Leader
Back to top
POLS
B425
Praxis III: Independent Study
Counts toward Praxis Program
Back to top