Political Science 201 - American Politics Through Film
Fall
2026
01
4.00
Samuel Stoddard
M W 2:30PM 3:45PM
UMass Amherst
19834
Thompson Hall Room 420
sstoddar@umass.edu
Movies are used to explore the development of American politics. The forces that shaped our politics early in the century (immigration, reform, religion), the rise of "big" government in the depression and World War II years (the new roles of the federal government, the enhanced presidency, internationalism, and anti-communism), and selected issues (race, gender, modern campaigns) prominent since the 1960s. The meaning of political democracy in America and how our understanding of it has adapted to changing times and conditions. (Gen.Ed. HS)
Open to sophomore, junior, and senior Political Science students.