Issues & Debates-amer Politics · Political Science
Survey of the key academic theories on various institutions in the US poltiical system
I learned a lot about governmental fragmentation and polarizations influence on policy making. It was an interesting course and had a lot to offer students focused on American government, social issues, and policy-making.
Understood the history and development of US political institutions and judiciary
I learned, in knowledge, vast aspects about the development and continuation of institutions in American politics; what they mean, how they operate, and how they interact with their members, staff, and the populace.
This class was very helpful in building the foundations of the institutions literature for American politics. The professor's ability to roughly summarize the progress of the literature within each topic--distinct of the readings we actually completed in the class--was particularly valuable.
This course was my first opportunity to delve into the issues and debates concerning American Politics. In terms of knowledge, our class discussions touched on topics such as the roles of institutions in American Politics (Congress, the Presidency, the Courts), political ideology, and the rise of partisanship and its effect on governance in America. In terms of skills, I was exposed to a deeper level of critical thinking and reflection on political texts.
Theories of American politics as well as standards of evidence in American politics research.
It is a very heavy workload - students are expected to read a lot and take notes. If you have other courses that equally need your attention it might be difficult to keep up and do well. Overall, it is a cool course and does offer really interesting perspectives. I learned a lot of new things and loved the challenge of it. Also, if you are afraid of public speaking I would not recommend this course. The professors are very supportive, but you will be put on the spot at times.
Do not be put off by the longer reading list. The approach required will be useful and applicable to other modules and future work. 1 Columbia University: Arts & Sciences Fall 2021 Course: POLSGR6210_001_2021_3-ISSUES&DEBATES-AMERPOLITICS : POLSGR6210_001_2021_3 - ISSUES & DEBATES-AMER POLITICS Instructor: Justin Phillips
Indispensable for students of American politics; but will not be super enjoyable otherwise