Jun 26, 2024  
College Catalog 2012-2013 
    
College Catalog 2012-2013 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Courses


 

Physical Education

  
  • PE 09 - Conditioning


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 10 - Racquetball I


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 11 - Swimming II


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 12 - Tennis II


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 13 - Intermediate Social Dance


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 14 - Karate II


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 15 - Fencing II


    (0 Credits)

  
  • PE 16 - Yoga II


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 18 - Pilates


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 19 - Conditioning II


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 20 - Weight Training


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 21 - Swim for Fitness


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 22 - Badminton


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 25 - Triathlon Training


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 26 - Tai Chi Chuan


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 27 - Cardio Fitness


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 28 - Pilates II


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 30 - Golf


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 31 - Scuba Diving


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 33 - Salsa Dance


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 40 - Self Defense


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 41 - Lifeguard Training


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 43 - Salsa II


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 50 - Tae Kwon Do


    (0 Credits)

  
  • PE 51 - Aqua Aerobics


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 60 - Sport Spectating


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 61 - Water Polo


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PE 90 - Independent Study


    (1 Credits)


Physics

  
  • PHYS 111 - Contemporary Concepts


    This course is specifically designed for the liberal arts student who desires an essentially non-mathematical, yet wholly faithful, acquaintance with the fundamental concepts of contemporary physics. Topics include special relativity, curved space-time and black holes, the Big Bang universe, light, quantum theory, and elementary particles. These are presented so as to demonstrate the power of “pure thought” and scientific creativity at its best. The underlying assumption of the course is that physics approached as a way of thinking can be vitally relevant and challenging to students of all intellectual persuasions. Three lectures per week in fall and spring. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 112 - Cosmos: Perspectives and Reflections


    This course seeks to acquaint students with recent advances in cosmology, particle physics, nuclear fusion, semiconductors, and genomics. Most of these topics will be presented by experts from major universities and national laboratories. S/D/NC grading only. Alternate years. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 113 - Modern Astronomy


    This course discusses topics of current interest in astronomy and the physical concepts that lead to our understanding of the Universe. There are three main sections: the Solar System, Celestial Light and Stars, and Galaxies and the Universe. Lectures include the formation of the sun and planets, properties of stars and stellar remnants (like black holes and supernovae), characteristics of our Milky Way and other galaxies, and the formation and fate of the Universe. Every year. Prerequisite(s): Basic algebra and trigonometry are recommended. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 120 - Astronomical Techniques


    This laboratory course provides active exercises in astronomical measurement techniques, including telescope and other observations of the night sky (as weather permits). The course is ideal for students who desire hands-on observing experience to complement PHYS 113 - Modern Astronomy  - Modern Astronomy, or as a background for advanced observing projects. Every year. Prerequisite(s): concurrent or previous registration in PHYS 113  or PHYS 226 . Corequisite(s): concurrent or previous registration in PHYS 113  or PHYS 226 . (2 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 130 - Science of Renewable Energy

    Cross-Listed as ENVI 130 
    This is a course on the current status of the most promising alternative and renewable energy options from a primarily scientific and technological perspective. Current methods of electricity generation and transportation energy sources will be briefly reviewed (fossil fuels, nuclear fission, and hydroelectric), including discussion of thier limitations and environmental consequences. The focus of the course will be on understanding the scientific basis of alternative and renewable energy sources, and their promise and technological challenges for wide scale implementation. Biofuels, wind, photovoltaics, concentrated solar power, hydrogen, nuclear fusion, and geothermal will be considered in depth. Three lectures and one two-hour lab per week. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 194 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 221 - Introductory Physics I


    Mechanics, heat and sound, including laboratory experiments and extensive demonstrations. Daily lectures and help sessions, three two-hour laboratories per week. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and PHYS 226 . Summer Physics Institute only. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 222 - Introductory Physics II


    Electricity and magnetism, light and optics, modern physics, including laboratory experiments and extensive demonstrations. Daily lectures and help sessions, three two-hour laboratories per week. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and PHYS 227 . Summer Physics Institute only. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 226 - Principles of Physics I


    A study of motion, including Newton’s Law of Motion, conservation of energy and momentum, rotational kinematics and dynamics, oscillations, waves in elastic media and thermal properties of matter. Three lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and PHYS 221 . Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Concurrent or previous registration in MATH 135  or   Corequisite(s):   (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 227 - Principles of Physics II


    A study of electric charge and currents, electric and magnetic fields, electromagnetic waves, and geometrical and physical optics. Three lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and PHYS 222 . Every semester. Prerequisite(s):   and   (  may also be taken concurrently). Corequisite(s):   (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 237 - Physics II for Life Sciences


    An introduction to electric charge and currents, electric and magnetic fields, electromagnetic waves, and geometrical and physical optics, with an emphasis on applications in the biological sciences.  Three lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and PHYS 227 . Fall semester. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 226  (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 294 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 331 - Modern Physics


    This course provides an introductory treatment of the exciting foundations of modern microscopic physics, including special relativity, quantum theory, atomic structure, nuclear structure and elementary particles. The primary goal of the course is to build the solid theoretical foundation in microscopic physics necessary for advanced studies in nearly all science disciplines. In addition to the theoretical treatment of the topics there will be laboratory exercises, which recreate the spirit and excitement of the pioneering experiments. Three lectures, one three-hour laboratory per week. Fall semester. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 227  (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 334 - Optics


    Principles of optics and wave phenomena, including the fundamental properties of light, geometrical optics, polarization, interference and diffraction. Laboratory includes basic optical experiments and an independent project. Recent independent projects have included: holography, fiber-optics communications, microwave optics and telescope building. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Alternate years. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 227  or consent of instructor. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 340 - Digital Electronics

    Cross-Listed as  
    A survey of fundamental ideas and methods used in the design and construction of digital electronic circuits such as computers. Emphasis will be on applying the theoretical aspects of digital design to the actual construction of circuits in the laboratory. Topics to be covered include basic circuit theory, transistor physics, logic families (TTL, CMOS), Boolean logic principles, combinatorial design techniques, sequential logic techniques, memory circuits and timing, and applications to microprocessor and computer design.  Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Offered alternate spring semesters. Prerequisite(s): MATH 137  and permission of instructor. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 348 - Laboratory Instrumentation


    This course is an introduction to laboratory methods that are useful in experimental physics and other laboratory-based disciplines, with an emphasis on computer interfacing techniques. Topics will include basic analog electronics, fundamental instrumentation such as analog-digital converters and digital oscilloscopes, and computer interfacing using LabView. Student will design and construct several significant computer interfacing projects throughout the semester. Since this course provides the foundation for advanced experimental work and research, students should take this course in their sophomore or junior year. Spring semester. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 227  (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 394 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 440 - Observational Astronomy


    This is an upper-level course for physics and astronomy majors that covers techniques of astronomical data acquisition and analysis. The class is divided roughly equally between optical and radio techniques. Students complete observational projects using both the Macalester Observatory and national telescope facilities. Lectures are supplemented by a required 3-hour analysis session that meets once per week. Every other year; required for the astronomy emphasis. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 113  and PHYS 120 ; or PHYS 113  and a lab-based upper-division natural science course (e.g., PHYS 331 , CHEM 311 ). (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 443 - Electromagnetic Theory


    This course treats the interactions between electrical charges in free space by developing the concepts of potential, electric and magnetic fields, and electromagnetic induction. Maxwell’s equations are developed and used to derive the properties of plane electromagnetic waves in free space. Special emphasis is placed on boundary value problems and other useful mathematical techniques. Three lectures per week. Fall semester. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 227  and   (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 444 - Electromagnetic Radiation


    This course extends the treatment of PHYS 443  to the electromagnetic properties of matter, especially the solid state, and the properties of electromagnetic waves and radiation. The treatment of electromagnetism within the special theory of relativity is also covered. Three lectures per week. Spring semester. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 443  (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 460 - Astrophysics


    This course covers advanced topics in astrophysics. It includes spectroscopy of stars, the interaction of light and matter in stellar atmospheres and interstellar medium, nucleosynthesis and the interior of stars, the structure of the Milky Way galaxy and the evidence for dark matter, properties and the formation of different types of galaxies, large-scale structure of the Universe, and observational tests of cosmology. Three hours per week. Every year. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 113  and PHYS 331 , or consent of the instructor. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 461 - Mechanics


    The fundamental principles of classical mechanics are discussed and applied to problems of contemporary interest. Topics include: charged particle motion in electromagnetic fields, oscillations and resonance, central force motion including the Kepler problem and Rutherford scattering, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of classical dynamics, symmetry and conservation laws, non-inertial reference frames, rigid body dynamics and applications, and an introduction to non-linear dynamics. Three lectures and problem discussions per week. Spring semester. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 227  and   (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 468 - Statistical Mechanics


    This course explores the equilibrium and kinetic properties of many-particle systems such as gases, liquids, and solids. The fundamental notions of entropy, temperature, and the Boltzmann relation are rigorously derived from statistical mechanics, and are used to develop other thermodynamic ideas such as chemical potential and free energy. The theory is applied to classical and quantum systems, including photon gases (black-body radiation), Bose-Einstein condensation, fermion systems such as metals and neutron stars, classical ideal gases, vibrations in solids (phonons), chemical reactions, semiconductors, and transport phenomena.  Three lectures per week. Alternate years. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 331  and MATH 237 . (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 481 - Quantum Mechanics


    The course rigorously covers many fundamental concepts of non-relativistic quantum mechanics, including the Heisenberg uncertainty principle and Pauli exclusion principle, single- and multi-particle stationary states in one, two and three dimensions, and quantized angular momentum and spin. Schrodinger equation solutions for atomic and nuclear systems are studied, using differential equation, matrix and perturbation techniques. Three lectures a week. Fall semester. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 331  and   (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 488 - Senior Research


    Students in the major concentration in physics select a subject for independent investigation and preparation of a senior thesis. Independent reading and experimentation by arrangement. Prerequisites: senior standing and departmental approval of the project prior to registration. Every year. Prerequisite(s): senior standing and departmental approval of the project prior to registration. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 489 - Physics Seminar


    (1 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 494 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 611 - Independent Project


    Independent reading and experimentation by arrangement. Every semester. Prerequisite(s): The department chair must approve a written proposal prior to registration and permission of instructor. (1 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 612 - Independent Project


    Independent reading and experimentation by arrangement. Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 613 - Independent Project


    Independent reading and experimentation by arrangement. Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. (3 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 614 - Independent Project


    Independent reading and experimentation by arrangement. Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 621 - Internship


    Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Junior and senior students with declared majors in Physics. Special arrangements must be made well in advance of the normal registration period. Departmental approval and permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. (1 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 622 - Internship


    Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Junior and senior students with declared majors in Physics. Special arrangements must be made well in advance of the normal registration period. Departmental approval and permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 623 - Internship


    Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Junior and senior students with declared majors in Physics. Special arrangements must be made well in advance of the normal registration period. Departmental approval and permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. (3 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 624 - Internship


    Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Junior and senior students with declared majors in Physics. Special arrangements must be made well in advance of the normal registration period. Departmental approval and permission of instructor. Work with Internship Office. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 631 - Preceptorship


    Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. (1 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 632 - Preceptorship


    Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 633 - Preceptorship


    Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. (3 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 634 - Preceptorship


    Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. Work with Academic Programs. (4 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 641 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the seniors honors project. Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. (1 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 642 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the seniors honors project. Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. (2 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 643 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the seniors honors project. Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. (3 Credits)

  
  • PHYS 644 - Honors Independent


    Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the seniors honors project. Every semester. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor. (4 Credits)


Political Science

  
  • POLI 100 - US Politics


    An analysis of the major ideas, actors, institutions, and processes that shape the formulation and execution of public policy in the United States. Every semester. Foundations Courses: Courses numbered in the 100s are Foundations courses. These courses are designed principally for beginning political science majors, as well as non-majors seeking an introduction to the discipline’s various sub-fields. The purpose of these courses is threefold: To provide foundational knowledge of the key actors, structures, institutions and/or historical dynamics relevant to the respective sub-fields; to introduce the major theoretical trends, perspectives and debates that have shaped the evolution of the respective sub-fields; and to begin to develop a range of practical competencies (esp. research/writing skills) essential to further scholarly inquiry within the discipline of political science. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 101 - Argument and Advocacy


    Course introduces students to classic principles of argument and advocacy-intellectual practices essential to academic success and effective democratic institutions. Students learn to analyze political arguments and engage in rational decision-making by rigorously evaluating types and use of evidence. Course emphasizes argument advocacy in written and oral assignments. Available only as a first year seminar. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 120 - International Politics


    This course has three broad goals. The first is to develop the foundational knowledge and conceptual literacy necessary to engage with International Relations’ multidimensional concerns. These include issues such as world order, power, hierarchy, political violence, international law, development, religion, human rights, gender, humanitarianism and international organizations (such as the United Nations). The second is to introduce students to the different perspectives or intellectual frameworks for making sense of international relations (also known as global or world politics), including realist, liberal, constructivist, historical materialist, postcolonial and feminist approaches. The third is to encourage students to reflect on some of the ethical issues inherent in both the study and practice of international politics. Emphasis will also be placed on developing a range of critical, analytical, research and writing skills required for the further study of international politics. The course is thus intended to prepare students for advanced work in the field, although it is also appropriate for those merely seeking to satisfy an interest in the study of global politics. Every semester. Foundations Courses: Courses numbered in the 100s are Foundations courses. These courses are designed principally for beginning political science majors, as well as non-majors seeking an introduction to the discipline’s various sub-fields. The purpose of these courses is threefold: To provide foundational knowledge of the key actors, structures, institutions and/or historical dynamics relevant to the respective sub-fields; to introduce the major theoretical trends, perspectives and debates that have shaped the evolution of the respective sub-fields; and to begin to develop a range of practical competencies (esp. research/writing skills) essential to further scholarly inquiry within the discipline of political science. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 140 - Comparative Politics


    A survey of theories and methods employed in comparative political analysis. Every year. Foundations Courses: Courses numbered in the 100s are Foundations courses. These courses are designed principally for beginning political science majors, as well as non-majors seeking an introduction to the discipline’s various sub-fields. The purpose of these courses is threefold: To provide foundational knowledge of the key actors, structures, institutions and/or historical dynamics relevant to the respective sub-fields; to introduce the major theoretical trends, perspectives and debates that have shaped the evolution of the respective sub-fields; and to begin to develop a range of practical competencies (esp. research/writing skills) essential to further scholarly inquiry within the discipline of political science. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 141 - Latin America Through Women’s Eyes

    Cross-Listed as   and  , unless it’s a first-year course.
    Latin American women have overcome patriarchal “machismo” to serve as presidents, mayors, guerilla leaders, union organizers, artists, intellectuals, and human rights activists. Through a mix of theoretical, empirical, and testimonial work, we will explore issues such as feminist challenges to military rule in Chile, anti-feminist politics in Nicaragua, the intersection of gender and democratization in Cuba, and women’s organizing and civil war in Colombia. Teaching methods include discussion, debates, simulations, analytic papers, partisan narratives, lecture, film, poetry, and a biographical essay. This class employs an innovative system of qualitative assessment. Students take the course “S/D/NC with Written Evaluation.” This provides a powerful opportunity for students to stretch their limits in a learning community with high expectations, but without a high-pressure atmosphere. This ungraded course has been approved for inclusion on major/minor plans in Political Science, Latin American Studies, and Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 160 - Foundations of Political Theory


    An examination of the evolution of fundamental western political ideas from the Greeks to the present. Every year. Foundations Courses: Courses numbered in the 100s are Foundations courses. These courses are designed principally for beginning political science majors, as well as non-majors seeking an introduction to the discipline’s various sub-fields. The purpose of these courses is threefold: To provide foundational knowledge of the key actors, structures, institutions and/or historical dynamics relevant to the respective sub-fields; to introduce the major theoretical trends, perspectives and debates that have shaped the evolution of the respective sub-fields; and to begin to develop a range of practical competencies (esp. research/writing skills) essential to further scholarly inquiry within the discipline of political science. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 170 - Theories of Rhetoric


    A study of classical and modern rhetorical theories throughout Western history. The course analyzes how each theory defines rhetoric and characterizes the relationship between rhetoric and power, art, truth, emotion, and ethics. Discusses the symbiotic relationship between rhetoric and democracy. Every year. Foundations Courses: Courses numbered in the 100s are Foundations courses. These courses are designed principally for beginning political science majors, as well as non-majors seeking an introduction to the discipline’s various sub-fields. The purpose of these courses is threefold: To provide foundational knowledge of the key actors, structures, institutions and/or historical dynamics relevant to the respective sub-fields; to introduce the major theoretical trends, perspectives and debates that have shaped the evolution of the respective sub-fields; and to begin to develop a range of practical competencies (esp. research/writing skills) essential to further scholarly inquiry within the discipline of political science. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 194 - Topics Course


    Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 200 - Women and American Politics


    This course examines the evolutionary role of women in politics as voters, citizens, candidates, and leaders from the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848 to the present. Drawing from a variety of theoretical perspectives, we examine women’s historical and contemporary roles in U.S. politics, investigate and debate a variety of public policy issues of particular concern to women, and explore the intersection of race and gender in U.S. politics. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 202 - Political Participation


    Analysis of institutions and procedures such as parties and elections, and also informal activities such as social movements, interest groups, and community action. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 203 - Politics and Inequality

    Cross-Listed as AMST 203 
    Analysis of the interplay of race, class and gender in politics and implications for the political process and public policy. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 204 - Urban Politics


    American urban politics, emphasizing urban policy problems, planning and decision-making. POLI 100  recommended. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 205 - Politics and Policymaking


    Analysis of selected policy concepts, problems and processes. Special emphases will be announced each time the course is scheduled and may include such broad topics as human rights, social policy, environmental policy, educational policy, budget policy, labor policy, and health policy. POLI 100  and POLI 269  are recommended. Offered every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 206 - US Constitutional Law and Thought


    An exploration of the structure of the American political system as seen through the decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court. Topics include the separation of powers in the federal government, the scope of executive power, and the development of federal-state relations over the course of American history. The material also includes the nature of judicial review, economic rights and contemporary questions about the limits of government power. POLI 100  recommended. Every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 207 - US Civil Rights and Civil Liberties


    An examination of civil liberties and rights in the U.S., focusing on the cases decided by the Supreme Court. Central topics include the 1st Amendment freedom of religion, speech, and the press; the right to privacy and abortion; and the constitutional requirement of Equal Protection as affecting discrimination, affirmative action, and voting rights. POLI 206  not required as a prerequisite. Every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 211 - Re-envisioning Education and Democracy

    Cross-Listed as AMST 280  and EDUC 280 
    This course explores the design, implementation, and evaluation of public education policy as a primary means for engaging more active, inclusive and effective approaches to social inquiry and civic participation. Drawing from classic and contemporary theories of education and democracy, complemented by recent developments and controversies in public policy studies, students work to design innovative, principled, educationally sound and politically feasible responses to significant civic concerns. Fall semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 212 - Rights and Wrongs: Litigation and Public Policy


    This course explores the significance, possibilities and limits of litigation as a way of shaping public policy and society. Focusing mainly in the American context, the course connects two braod areas of interest: the rise of rights movements in the 20th century (from the NAACP to contemporary movements such as gay rights) and the use of class action lawsuits and tort law to compensate people for injuries or risk, especially in matters affecting public health (e.g. asbestos, tobacco). Related subjects discussed include the historical roots of litigation as an approach to social problems and government regulation as an alternative to litigation. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 214 - Cyber Politics


    An analysis of innovations on the internet to assist candidates running for political office, enhance citizen participation, develop e-Democracy, and organize political protest. Course focuses on theories of cyberpolitics, and examines the effectiveness and ethical character of these persuasive approaches. Topics include an examination of candidate and political party web sites, on-line grassroots organizing, the ascendancy of political web logs (blogs), candidate “meet-ups,” campaign advertisements designed for the web, on-line fundraising, “fake news” sites, sites that parody or satirize candidates running for office, and “attack animations.” Students will utilize Macalester’s course-management software and learn HTML in order to design web-based assignments. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 215 - Environmental Politics/Policy

    Cross-Listed as  
    This course provides an introduction to the field of Environmental Politics and Policy. Using a comparative approach, the course engages the meaning and development of environmental governance. We will explore the tandem rise of the modern environmental movement and profound new environmental legislation in the U.S. and internationally. Topics investigated will include: deforestation, hazardous wastes, climate change, population growth, and loss of biodiversity. Every semester. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 216 - Legislative Politics


    This course explores legislative politics through a combination of academic theory and focused field experiences. Each student must simultaneously enroll in a credit-bearing internship at the Minnesota State Legislature. The class examines the basic structures, players and forces that shape legislative decision-making, the motivation or individual legislators, and their interactions with other political actors and institutions. POLI 100  recommended. Every spring. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 220 - Foreign Policy


    Analysis of influence patterns in foreign policy-making and issues on the foreign policy agenda past and present. Alternate years. Prerequisite(s): POLI 120  recommended. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 221 - Global Governance


    This course is designed to introduce students to global governance. It begins with a discussion of the concept of global governance. It then turns to some of the central features of contemporary global governance, including the changing status of the state and of international/world organizations and the role of global civil society. The emphasis here is on how patterns of global governance have changed and are changing and on the implications of these changes for democracy, social justice, etc. The remainder of the course focuses on the areas of international peace and security, human rights and international humanitarian law, and economic governance. By addressing such topics as the International Criminal Court and the role of the IMF and the World Bank in economic development, these parts of the course highlight the contested nature of global governance in each of the three issue areas. POLI 120  recommended. Every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 222 - Regional Conflict/Security


    This course is intended to introduce students to the military, political, economic, cultural and/or diplomatic dimensions of various regional conflicts or “security complexes.” The specific region to be covered will vary from year to year, but it is expected that regions of pressing interest or greater significance to international peace and security will be covered most regularly. This course is designed for political science majors, but is also suitable for others who need to fulfill a distribution requirement in the social sciences or who simply want to satisfy an interest in a specific regional conflict or international politics/security more generally. POLI 120  recommended, but not required. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 241 - The Holocaust: Representation and Interpretations


    Using a plurality of approaches and sources, this course aims at a fundamental understanding of the Holocaust. It examines a variety of situations (Germany, Poland, France), a variety of actors (perpetrators, bystanders, helpers, resisters, victims), and a variety of perspectives (intentionalist, functionalist, relativist). Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 242 - Development Politics


    Analysis of theories, patterns, and policies of development in the Third World with emphasis on North-South political-economic and cultural relationships. Every year. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 243 - Political Anthropology

    Cross-Listed as ANTH 364 
    Analysis of political structures and activities in diverse world societies. Emphases on pre-literate cultures, but societies examined range from hunting and gathering bands to agricultural tribes in industrial states. Alternate years. Prerequisite(s): ANTH 111  (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 244 - Urban Latino Power

    Cross-Listed as   and  
    Comparative study of Latino and Latina political struggles in the United States. We will explore the themes of subordination and empowerment through issues such as anti-immigrant ballot initiatives in California, the election of Latino mayors in Denver and San Antonio, Cuban dominance in Miami politics, multiracial violence in Los Angeles, and battles over labor conditions, affirmative action, bi-lingual education, and racial profiling. Student projects will involve field research among the Latino communities and organizations of the Twin Cities. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 245 - Latin American Politics


    Comparative study of political institutions and conflicts in several Latin American countries. Through a mix of empirical and theoretical work, we analyze concepts and issues such as authoritarianism and democratization, neoliberalism, state terror and peace processes, guerrilla movements, party systems, populism, the Cuban Revolution, and U.S. military intervention. Themes are explored through diverse teaching methods including discussion, debates, simulations, partisan narratives, lecture, film, and poetry. POLI 141  or   recommended. Alternate years. (4 Credits)

  
  • POLI 246 - Comparative Democratization

    Cross-Listed as LATI 246 
    This course focuses on theories of democratic breakdown, regime transitions, and democratization in Southern Europe, Latin America, and Post-Communist Europe. Some of the cases we will study include Pinochet’s coup and Chile’s return to elections, Fujimori’s “self-coup” in Peru, the rise of Solidarity in Poland, the breakdown and return of democracy in Spain, and the end of the South African apartheid regime. Building on the literatures on transitions, consolidation, civil society, and constitutional design, the course culminates in a simulation of institution building in Iraq. Offered every year. Prerequisite(s): POLI 140  or POLI 141  recommended. (4 Credits)

 

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