PS 225 Political Ideology

Political ideologies are comprehensive systems of political beliefs. This course focuses on the major ideologies of the modern era, including liberalism, conservatism, fascism, Marxism, democratic socialism, anarchism, multiculturalism, and environmentalism. It examines the basic tenets of each ideology, its historical context, and its relevance to current political and social discourse.

Credits

4

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Apply analytical skills to social phenomena in order to understand human behavior. The basic premises of each of the major political ideologies are presented in lecture format. I examine the explanatory, evaluative, orientative, and programmatic functions of each ideology. Ideologies contain a conception of human nature, which helps explain behavior. Each ideology is linked to the historical context in which it emerged and its present day manifestations explored. We examine how each ideology explains the behavior of its adherents. By examining particular social phenomenon, students learn to analyze how particular kinds of human behavior results from each of the ideologies, and how social phenomenon shape ideologies themselves. We also compare and contrast competing ideologies, analyzing how phenomenon unfold as a product of ideological disputes
2. Apply knowledge and experience to foster personal growth and better appreciate the diverse social world in which we live. The variety of ideologies presented allows student to better appreciate the diversity of our social world. They not only see the great diversity of ideologies, but also the significant diversity within each ideology. Drawing from their own experiences, students come to understand their own ideological position better. For some students this is a great moment. Convinced they were adherents of one ideology, once they learn about that ideology they often find their ideological position far more complicated than they expected and sometimes realize they no longer believe what they once did. This process requires the application of knowledge and experience to understanding. It helps students better understand their own position within the diverse and sometimes confusing world of ideology
3. Understand the role of individuals and institutions within the context of society. Learning about ideologies inherently helps us understand the role of individuals, social groups, and institutions in society. Learning about ideologies situates individuals, social groups, and institutions in society. Some ideologies focus on individuals, others on social groups or institutions. Thus the diversity of ideologies presented creates competing explanations for their role with society
4. Assess different theories and concepts, and understand the distinctions between empirical and other methods of inquiry. The ideas and concepts embedded within each ideology are explored. We explore the historical context within which each ideology emerges. Although I do not place heavy emphasis on methods of inquiry, we do examine how different ideologies are linked to certain methods of inquiry and how they are shaped by the methods used to arrive and ideological precepts
5. Utilize appropriate information literacy skills in written and oral communication. In the term paper students are required to come up with their own problem statement, determine the nature and extent of the information needed to address the problem, assess the relevant information, and evaluate this information critically. This is a difficult task in political theory, so I offer continuous support at all stages of writing the term paper. During class discussions and in the exams I use questions to get students to formulate problem statements, from which we then gather information in the form of diverse viewpoints, and critically assess the information
6. Understand the diversity of human experience and thought, individually and collectively. By examining the broad scope of ideologies in historical and contemporary contexts we come to understand the diversity of human experiences. We see how the ideas driving politics emerge and change societies, sometimes in revolutionary ways and sometimes gradually in protracted political battles
7. Apply knowledge and skills to contemporary problems and issues. As part of examining each ideology I examine its present day manifestations in institutions, political parties, social movements, and individual leaders. This involves an examination of contemporary debates, from same-sex marriage to the war on terrorism. After learning the basics of each ideology we use them to explain particular phenomenon today. We watch films and have discussions on contemporary issues debated by ideologues of different stripes