Often, American politics concepts and institutions such as federalism, comparing conservatism to libertarianism, and the bureaucracy seem vague and difficult to unpack. This course and the accompanying textbook are designed to unpack these and other phenomenon and introduce students to the structure of American government and the political ideals that inform this structure. The course introduces you to theories about and the practice of American politics at the local, state, and national levels. It will help you understand the institutions, processes, policy outcomes, and environment of our government. It will improve your ability to analyze contemporary issues and institutions.
Chapter 1: Politics, Government, Political Science, and American Politics
Chapter 2: American Political Culture, Colonial and Founding Eras, and Constitutional Framework
Chapter 3: Federalism
Chapter 4: Civil Liberties and Civil Rights
Chapter 5: Public Opinion and Media
Chapter 6: Campaigns, Political Participation, and Elections
Chapter 7: Political Parties and Interest Groups
Chapter 8: Congress
Chapter 9: Presidency
Chapter 10: Bureaucracy
Chapter 11: Federal Judiciary