This course is designed to give students a preliminary understanding of how history, politics, economics, and the legislative and administrative processes in Washington shape US public policy, and the impact this has on US international relations. In the process, students will discover who influences these policies and a range of potential career paths in this area. The course will focus on events that are happening now: the impact of globalization on US politics and policy, and the Presidential and VP's candidates' views on national security, international trade, and foreign affairs.