This course offers an introduction to American politics and citizenship. We will examine the philosophical, ideological, and theoretical foundations of the American system of government, as well as the actual institutions that make up this system. We will also spend some time looking at the ways in which citizens (and other activists) who are not part of this institutional system of government influence outcomes through voting, and participation in political parties, the media, and social movements.

Introduction to and overview of American government. Emphasis on understanding American political institutions such as the Congress, the presidency, and the courts in light of democratic theory and values. Examination of the electoral process; how government institutions respond to demands for public policies. (Gen.Ed. SB)

Introduction to and overview of American government. Emphasis on understanding American political institutions such as the Congress, the presidency, and the courts in light of democratic theory and values. Examination of the electoral process; how government institutions respond to demands for public policies. (Gen.Ed. SB)

Introduction to and overview of American government. Emphasis on understanding American political institutions such as the Congress, the presidency, and the courts in light of democratic theory and values. Examination of the electoral process; how government institutions respond to demands for public policies. (Gen.Ed. SB)

Introduction to and overview of American government. Emphasis on understanding American political institutions such as the Congress, the presidency, and the courts in light of democratic theory and values. Examination of the electoral process; how government institutions respond to demands for public policies. (Gen.Ed. SB)

Introduction to and overview of American government. Emphasis on understanding American political institutions such as the Congress, the presidency, and the courts in light of democratic theory and values. Examination of the electoral process; how government institutions respond to demands for public policies. (Gen.Ed. SB)

Introduction to and overview of American government. Emphasis on understanding American political institutions such as the Congress, the presidency, and the courts in light of democratic theory and values. Examination of the electoral process; how government institutions respond to demands for public policies. (Gen.Ed. SB)

Introduction to and overview of American government. Emphasis on understanding American political institutions such as the Congress, the presidency, and the courts in light of democratic theory and values. Examination of the electoral process; how government institutions respond to demands for public policies. (Gen.Ed. SB)

Introduction to and overview of American government. Emphasis on understanding American political institutions such as the Congress, the presidency, and the courts in light of democratic theory and values. Examination of the electoral process; how government institutions respond to demands for public policies. (Gen.Ed. SB)

Introduction to and overview of American government. Emphasis on understanding American political institutions such as the Congress, the presidency, and the courts in light of democratic theory and values. Examination of the electoral process; how government institutions respond to demands for public policies. (Gen.Ed. SB)