By any measure, and at all levels, American politics is deeply polarized along partisan lines, often asymmetrically so. This tribal division along partisan lines has changed the tone of political discourse, impacted the ability of our government to function, and even spread into apolitical facets of American life. This class will delve into the origins, psychology and social dynamics of this hyper-polarization. We will seek to understand the nature of this division and examine its implications for government, society and the future of American democracy.

By any measure, and at all levels, American politics is deeply polarized along partisan lines, often asymmetrically so. This tribal division along partisan lines has changed the tone of political discourse, impacted the ability of our government to function, and even spread into apolitical facets of American life. This class will delve into the origins, psychology and social dynamics of this hyper-polarization. We will seek to understand the nature of this division and examine its implications for government, society and the future of American democracy.

By any measure, and at all levels, American politics is deeply polarized along partisan lines, often asymmetrically so. This tribal division along partisan lines has changed the tone of political discourse, impacted the ability of our government to function, and even spread into apolitical facets of American life. This class will delve into the origins, psychology and social dynamics of this hyper-polarization. We will seek to understand the nature of this division and examine its implications for government, society and the future of American democracy.

Introduction to the Western tradition of political theory; focus on particular problems and issues through a reading of classical and non-traditional texts. Topics include political obligation, justice, feminism, individuality, friendship, community, civil disobedience, power, others. (GenEd. SB)

Introduction to the Western tradition of political theory; focus on particular problems and issues through a reading of classical and non-traditional texts. Topics include political obligation, justice, feminism, individuality, friendship, community, civil disobedience, power, others. (GenEd. SB)

Introduction to the Western tradition of political theory; focus on particular problems and issues through a reading of classical and non-traditional texts. Topics include political obligation, justice, feminism, individuality, friendship, community, civil disobedience, power, others. (GenEd. SB)

Introduction to the American constitution as law. The importance of the text and the traditions of interpretation. The courts, congress, and the presidency. Also local power, the bill of rights, and the fourteenth amendment. (Gen.Ed. SB)

Introduction to the American constitution as law. The importance of the text and the traditions of interpretation. The courts, congress, and the presidency. Also local power, the bill of rights, and the fourteenth amendment. (Gen.Ed. SB)

What if a Constitution drafted in the 18th century is inadequate to the needs of a 21st century nation? How should we amend it? In this hands-on course blending team-based learning and discussion-based classes, students will jointly identify a small number of perceived deficiencies in the US Constitution, research the history, interpretation, and application of the operative provisions, explore alternative models from other constitutions, and develop proposed amendments for presentation to and discussion by the entire class.

Students enrolled in this course attend weekly pedagogy sessions led by the instructors and facilitate a weekly PLTL session for a pre-assigned group of 8 to 10 students from CHEM 261 or CHEM 262. This course trains students to become effective leaders for Peer-Led Team Learning (PLTL) groups in the large enrollment organic chemistry courses. The weekly pedagogy sessions will equip students with collaborative learning strategies, group facilitation techniques, leadership skills, and communication skills.