Political Science

An introduction to the main institutions and ideas in the American political tradition for all first-year students who wish to enhance their ability to perform duties of citizenship within that tradition.

A survey of governments and politics in the industrialized and developing nations. Students will examine what it means to compare political systems and explore the ideological foundations, political institutions, and political performance of governments in Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.

A review of the main issues and problems confronted by nation-states as they interact with each other in the international system with emphasis on peace and war, integration and disintegration, and the nature of foreign policy formulation.

Study of the structures and procedures of the United Nations in preparation for student participation at intercollegiate model United Nations conferences. Students will be expected to become familiar with both the United Nations as an institution and the policies of the countries they will be representing. Approval of the instructor is required for enrollment. May be repeated for up to three credits.

A general introduction to the study of law that offer students a broad liberal arts perspective on the important role law plays in our society. Students will gain a working knowledge of criminal and civil procedure, learn about the state and federal court systems, read and analyze court opinions, and participate in an appellate simulation. In addition, this course will include modules on the philosophy of law and sociology of law.

An introduction to the basic empirical research design and quantitative methodologies for testing theories in political science. Students gain statistical techniques for analyzing large datasets and exposure to the empirical political science literatures.

Study of significant issues in public policy with emphasis on the ability to address such issues from different philosophical and ideological perspectives.

Study of the nature, organization, and operations of American political parties in government and in the electoral process. Students will examine different types of elections and how campaign strategies differ depending on the type of election and the political environment.

Analysis of the phenomena of war and conflict between nation-states. Students will explore various explanations for war and evaluate these through examination of various conflicts in the 20th century. In addition, students will examine methods for limiting conflict.

General features of state constitutions, powers of governors, state legislative structure and processes, state judicial systems, and structure and form of municipal and county governments. Emphasis on Arkansas government.

The evolution of U.S. foreign and security policy with particular attention to the Cold War and post-Cold War eras. In addition students will examine the policy-making process, including the role of public opinion, the mass media, and Congress. (Same as HIS 315)

This course defines the responsibilities of and focuses on the interactions among the major branches of government - congress, the Presidency, and Supreme Court.

An introduction to the basic principles of public international law in the rules of war, the law of the Seas, and human rights, and a survey of the related functions of the United Nations.

The development of German political ideas and the evolution of German constitutional arrangements from the Reformation to the present. In addition to the Sonderweg thesis–which seeks to explain and understand Germany’s embrace of authoritarian political institutions–students will explore the rich German liberal and democratic tradition. In order to comprehend the complexity of German political thought, students will study the artifacts and writings of artists, philosophers, filmmakers, and poets, as well as historians and politicians. (Same as HIS 349)

Examination of the political thinkers who started the Western political tradition. Concentrating on original sources, students will consider the origin of political philosophy in selected works by such authors as Xenophon, Plato, and Aristotle. (Same as RPH 351)

Study of major political thinkers such as Machiavelli, Locke, Rousseau, Hume, and Marx. Students will concentrate on selected works and topics that have influenced contemporary politics. (Same as RPH 353)

The transformation of Russia in the 20th century with special attention to the factors leading to the collapse of communism in the Gorbachev era and the efforts to establish democratic institutions in the region thereafter. (Same as HIS 358)

Comparative survey of government and governmental institutions in Asia with particular emphasis on identifying key political, economic, and social trends affecting the region.

Discussion and research of current public debates and interests in which both governmental and economic forces and interests are joined. Students will present their research to the class and write a major paper. (Same as ECO 370)

Survey of the Middle East from the rise of Islam to the present day with emphasis on the development of Islamic society and culture and the impact and influence of the West. Particular attention will be given to the rise of nationalism, the Arab-Israeli Conflict, and the development of Islamic fundamentalism. (Same as HIS 371)

An examination of the civil rights and liberties guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. Special attention will be given to the study of criminal defendants’ rights (the Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments), freedom of speech and religion (First Amendment), equal protection (Fourteenth Amendment), and the right to privacy.

Study of selected topics in political science. Prerequisites will vary.

Study of varying topics in political science. Includes a 2-week Nichols trip. Prerequisites will vary.

Concentrated study in one or more areas of government.