Course Catalog

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Course Catalog

COMPARATIVE POLITICAL COMMUNICATION (PO3011)

This course provides an overview of political communication theories, modes, means and institutions and serves as an introduction to how communication scholars study politics and the media. We will cover prevalent political communication theories and trends, the relationship between political institutions and the press both in the US and in other countries, elections, debates, political campaigning and advertising, new media and politics, political socialization, education, politics and popular culture.

GLOBAL JUSTICE (PO3019)

Is it unjust that there are huge economic inequalities between people of different countries? If so, who is responsible for rectifying these injustices? Should individuals enjoy the liberty to move freely across countries? How fair is free trade? The course explores these and other questions of global justice from philosophical and social-scientific perspectives.

POLITICS OF HUMAN RIGHTS (PO3024)

Examines the work of international organizations, public and private, that are engaged in exposing the violation of human rights throughout the world, as well as the international agreements that have been concluded and the results of these agreements.

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS IN ASIA (PO3029)

This seminar is designed to introduce students to modern Southeast Asian politics, particularly the historical foundations for current events. Students will explore the complexities of the continental and island states of this region with emphasis on the legacy of colonialism and war, ASEAN, the burgeoning regional economy, terrorism and democratic governance.

INTERNAT'L POLITICS OF THE ENVIRONMENT (PO3033)

Examines concerns about interaction between environmental degradation and developmental aspirations that have recently been placed on political agendas around the world. Examines how and to what extent the international system imposes constraints on and presents opportunities for nation-states as they attempt to achieve sustainable development.

WATERS OF THE GLOBE (PO3035)

This course examines the role of marine environments and fresh waters from the perspective of international security, conflict and cooperation, international law, economics, and environmental safety and culture. Topics include water scarcity, access to sanitation and health, water and gender, capacity-building, financing, valuation, integrated water resources management, trans-boundary water issues, environment and biodiversity, and disaster prevention.

INTERNAT'L HUMAN RIGHTS LAW (PO3041)

International human rights law established the norms, jurisprudence and legal infrastructure necessary to promote the implementation of international human rights standards. This course introduces key substantive and institutional issues and explores the establishment of standards, international human rights treaties, their implementation mechanisms and the expanding body of jurisprudence that make up this discipline at the crossroads of law and development.

NATO, EU, & RUSSIA (PO3043)

Analyzes European security issues in the post-Cold War era. Traces the evolution of NATO, as well as British, French, and German security policy. Focuses on the security issues facing Eastern Europe and the ramifications of NATO enlargement in regard to US, European, and Russian security issues.

AMERICAN FOREIGN POLICY (PO3046)

Analyzes the formulation and practice of American foreign policy, with emphasis on its continually changing relation to the domestic political process. Topics include the constitutional and political power sharing between the President and Congress, NATO membership, the Korean War, the Middle East involvement, and the Cold War. Focuses particularly on US policy in the 'new world order'.

GLOBAL POLITICAL ECONOMY (PO3051)

Introduces the basic theories and practices of political economy through the lens of globalization. Discusses the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the OECD and the former GATT as well as the WTO. Explores the complex trade relations between Asia, Europe, and the US, and the impact of financial crisis on world markets.