PLSC 524a, YData: Data Science for Political Campaigns  Joshua Kalla

Political campaigns have become increasingly data driven. Data science is used to inform where campaigns compete, which messages they use, how they deliver them, and among which voters. In this course, we explore how data science is being used to design winning campaigns. Students gain an understanding of what data is available to campaigns, how campaigns use this data to identify supporters, and the use of experiments in campaigns. The course provides students with an introduction to political campaigns, an introduction to data science tools necessary for studying politics, and opportunities to practice the data science skills presented in S&DS 523. Can be taken concurrently with, or after successful completion of, S&DS 523.
HTBA

PLSC 1222a, Introduction to American Politics  Gregory Huber

Introduction to American national government. The Constitution, American political culture, civil rights, Congress, the executive, political parties, public opinion, interest groups, the media, social movements, and the policy-making process.  SO  0 Course cr
MW 10:30am-11:20am

PLSC 1327a, Introduction to Political Philosophy  Giulia Oskian

Fundamental issues in contemporary politics investigated through reflection on classic texts in the history of political thought. Emphasis on topics linked to modern constitutional democracies, including executive power, representation, and political parties. Readings from Plato, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Madison and Hamilton, Lincoln, and Tocqueville, in addition to recent articles on contemporary issues.  SO  0 Course cr
HTBA

PLSC 1413a, Comparative Politics: States, Regimes, and Conflict  Ana De La O

Introduction to the study of politics and political life in the world outside the United States. State formation and nationalism, the causes and consequences of democracy, the functioning of authoritarian regimes, social movements and collective action, and violence.  SO  0 Course cr
MW 1:30pm-2:20pm

PLSC 2105a / GLBL 2203a, Globalization and Domestic Politics  Didac Queralt

This course offers students a general introduction to the political consequences of economic globalization (e.g., the rise of populist parties). We identify the winners and losers of tariff policy, foreign aid, and monetary policy (e.g., a strong/weak dollar), and examine how domestic institutions—such as lobbying and electoral systems—reinforce the advantages enjoyed by globalization’s winners, while also creating opportunities for losers to advocate for policy reversal.  0 Course cr
MW 1:30pm-2:20pm

PLSC 2139a, Politics and Regimes of the Contemporary Middle East  Elizabeth Parker-Magyar

Why do some autocratic governments spend decades in power while others collapse overnight? When do regime transitions lead to democratic outcomes? This course examines these questions through the lens of the 2010-11 uprisings in the Middle East and North Africa. After the initial optimism of the uprisings forced a reexamination of decades of scholarship, trajectories of regime retrenchment, conflict, and violence led to renewed interest in long-running debates on the persistence of non-democratic regimes in the region. First, looking beyond the region, this course considers debates on how to categorize political regimes and engages with theories of autocratic persistence around the globe. Moving back to the region, we trace the trajectories of different countries before and after 2010-2011. We then engage with how scholars situated the uprising within long-running debates on how historical and colonial legacies; cultural, ethnic, and religious practices and divides; contemporary patterns of foreign intervention; repression and coercion; economic resources; and contentious politics influence contemporary political outcomes in the region.  SO
MW 2:35pm-3:25pm

PLSC 2140a, Immigration  Nicholas Sambanis

This course provides an introduction to the politics of immigration focusing mostly on the challenges of integrating migrants in “host” countries, but also exploring causes of immigration as well as open questions in current immigration policy debates. We define “immigrants” and “migrants” to include people who travel across borders to resettle in other countries temporarily or permanently regardless of motive–so our definition includes both economic migrants and refugees and asylum seekers. In considering barriers to immigrant integration and ways to overcome those barriers, the course connects with theoretical perspectives across the social sciences, as well as real-life examples and experiences of immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers as well as with the perspectives of “native” populations who must confront the challenges of accommodating migrant inflows in their countries. The course synthesizes knowledge across the fields of political science, economics, and sociology and exposes students to an inter-disciplinary perspective on immigration politics. Students are exposed to methods used to study immigration-related topics in cutting-edge research.    SO  0 Course cr
MW 10:30am-11:20am

* PLSC 2219a, Election Fundamentals and Forecasting  Kevin DeLuca

This course examines the fundamental forces that determine election outcomes in the United States. Students practice data analytics using real election results and historical data, and ultimately build a predictive model of the 2024 U.S. election. After the election, students assess their model accuracy. Topics include but are not limited to: presidential approval, the economy, incumbency and candidate quality, campaign and media effects, partisan polarization, case studies of key presidential elections, and election regulations. Throughout the course we explore how the class material helps us understand the dynamics in the upcoming/ongoing 2024 election campaign. Instructor permission required. Students must have at least completed a class that teaches regression techniques (some examples include PLSC 347, 438, 452, the YData courses, Stat 230, or similar, etc.). Students should also have experience coding (the class will mainly use R). Weekly assignments involved coding and making election predictions using real world data.  QR, SO
TTh 10:30am-11:20am

PLSC 2244a, The American Presidency  Stephen Skowronek

Examination of the constitutional law, historical development, and current operations of the American presidency. Topics include formal powers, the organization and mobilization of popular support, the modern executive establishment, and the politics of presidential leadership.  SO  0 Course cr
TTh 10:30am-11:20am

PLSC 2255a, Special Interest Politics in the US  Mellissa Meisels

This class examines how citizens and groups participate in US politics and policymaking via campaign contributions and lobbying. From elections all the way to bureaucratic policy implementation, special interests have many opportunities to attempt to pull policy closer to their preferences. Students become familiar with the regulatory environments structuring current laws regarding the revolving door and campaign finance (e.g. Citizens United), potential avenues of participation for special interests (e.g. political donations, independent expenditures, lobbying), the goals and preferences of different types of special interests (e.g. individual donors, ideological and issue groups, public interest and identity groups, corporations, local governments), groups' organizational structures (e.g. PACs, Super PACs, "dark money" groups), and current evidence on widely-discussed reforms meant to curb the political influence of special interests. Introduction to American Politics or an equivalent is strongly recommened.  SO
MW 4pm-5:15pm

* PLSC 2331a, Lincoln's Statecraft and Rhetoric  Steven Smith

Close reading of major speeches and letters by Abraham Lincoln, with a focus on his views concerning slavery, equality, and race in American society. The relation of words to deeds in Lincoln's practice of statecraft; his place in the history and theory of statesmanship. The emergence of Lincoln's thought from an engagement with views of the American founders; ways in which his vision of American democracy both drew upon and transformed the founders' vision.  SO  0 Course cr
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

PLSC 2351a, Socialist Political Ideas  Lucia Rubinelli

This course explores the history of socialist political thought by focusing on how socialist thinkers addressed the problem of political organization and how they viewed democracy and its institutions. The course looks at Utopian socialism, the problem of political organization in 1848, Proudhon’s arguments for anarchism, the economic and political thought of Karl Marx, controversies over the role of parliaments, political parties and the masses in the Second International, Lenin’s theory of political action, Luxemburg’s debate about imperialism and the mass strike and Gramsci’s interpretation of culture. The course is structured around key primary texts, which are accompanied by secondary readings and suggestions for books and movies. None, but throughout the course, we will be referring to key historical events, which have shaped the course of socialist theorising. I will circulate a list of useful resources to help gather information about these historical moments, as well as some background readings to help students situate the thinkers in their biographical and historical context.  SO  0 Course cr
MW 1:30pm-2:20pm

PLSC 2363a / AFAM 1952 / BLST 1952a / SOCY 2002a, Topics in Contemporary Social Theory  Yagmur Karakaya

In-depth introduction to recent developments in social theory, with particular emphasis on the last twenty years. Focus on three distinct areas of study: the building blocks and contrasting understandings of human persons and social action; the competing theories of the social structure of markets, institutions, cultures, social fields, and actor-networks; and the theoretical controversies concerning nations, states and empires, ethnic and racial identity, and the relation between facts and values in social research. Authors include Judith Butler, Michel Foucault, Jurgen Habermas, Pierre Bourdieu and Bruno Latour. SOCY 151 or equivalent is strongly recommended.  WR, SO  0 Course cr
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

PLSC 2404a / GLBL 2287a / SOCY 2830a, Capitalism and Crisis  Isabela Mares

This course provides an introduction to the study of comparative capitalism. We examine how institutions organizing labor markets, finance and the welfare state differ systematically across advanced industrialized countries and the consequence of these differences for a variety of economic and policy outcomes. These include economic growth, unemployment, levels of inequality and so on. Can we meaningfully talk about a German or Swedish model and if so, what are the main institutional arrangements that differ across these economies? How do institutions in these countries differ from more liberal capitalist economies, such as the United States? In the second part of the course, we examine the responses of different countries to a variety of economic shocks. These include the stagflation crisis of the 1970’s, the slowdown in economic growth, deindustrialization, the rise in unemployment and inequality and the migration crisis. We examine how existing political and economic institutions have shaped the policy trade-offs encountered by different countries and we explain the different political responses taken in response to these crises. During the period between November 14 and November 24, enrollment will be limited to majors. After November 24, registration will be opened to all Yale College students. Please register your interest via the Yale Course Search website.  SO  0 Course cr
MW 9:25am-10:15am

PLSC 2417a / AFAM 1986a / LAST 1214a / SOCY 1704a, Contesting Injustice  Elisabeth Wood

Exploration of why, when, and how people organize collectively to challenge political, social, and economic injustice. Cross-national comparison of the extent, causes, and consequences of inequality. Analysis of mobilizations for social justice in both U.S. and international settings. Intended primarily for first years and sophomores.  SO  0 Course cr
TTh 4pm-4:50pm

PLSC 2430a / LAST 1200a, Introduction to Latin American Politics  Emily Sellars

Introduction to major theories of political and economic change in Latin America, and to the political and economic systems of particular countries. Questions include why the continent has been prone to unstable democratic rule, why countries in the region have adopted alternatively state-centered and market-centered economic models, and, with the most recent wave of democratization, what the remaining obstacles might be to attaining high-quality democracy.  SO  0 Course cr
TTh 10:30am-11:20am

* PLSC 2433a / EAST 2521a, Japanese Politics and Foreign Policy  Charles McClean

This class introduces students to 13 important puzzles about contemporary Japanese politics and foreign policy, discusses various ways in which scholars have attempted to solve these puzzles, and suggests pathways for future research. Together, we seek to explain policy outcomes across a wide range of topics, including constitutional revision, defense, economic growth, energy, gender, immigration, income inequality, population aging, territorial disputes, and trade. In the process, we learn (1) the important actors in Japanese politics (e.g., voters, politicians, parties, bureaucrats, and firms); (2) the positions that different actors take with respect to various policies, as well as the sources of these policy preferences; and (3) how political institutions block or enhance the representation of these actors’ interests.  SO
W 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 2509a / EP&E 328a / EP&E 4328a / S&DS 1720a, YData: Data Science for Political Campaigns  Joshua Kalla

Political campaigns have become increasingly data driven. Data science is used to inform where campaigns compete, which messages they use, how they deliver them, and among which voters. In this course, we explore how data science is being used to design winning campaigns. Students gain an understanding of what data is available to campaigns, how campaigns use this data to identify supporters, and the use of experiments in campaigns. This course provides students with an introduction to political campaigns, an introduction to data science tools necessary for studying politics, and opportunities to practice the data science skills presented in S&DS 123, YData.
   QR
W 4pm-5:55pm

PLSC 2600a / EP&E 295 / EP&E 4295a, Game Theory and Political Science  Adam Meirowitz

Introduction to game theory—a method by which strategic interactions among individuals and groups in society are mathematically modeled—and its applications to political science. Concepts employed by game theorists, such as Nash equilibrium, subgame perfect equilibrium, and perfect Bayesian equilibrium. Problems of cooperation, time-consistency, signaling, and reputation formation. Political applications include candidate competition, policy making, political bargaining, and international conflict. No prerequisites other than high school algebra. Political Science majors who take this course may not count ECON 159 toward the major.  QR, SO  0 Course cr
TTh 4pm-4:50pm

* PLSC 2846a / AMST 2246a / ENGL 2826a, The Media and Democracy  Joanne Lipman

In an era of "fake news," when the media is under attack, misinformation is at epidemic levels, and new technologies are transforming the way we consume news, how do journalists hold power to account? What is the media’s role in promoting and protecting democracy? Students explore topics including objectivity versus advocacy, and hate speech versus First Amendment speech protections. Case studies span from 19th century Yellow Journalism to the #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter movements, to the rise of AI journalism and social media “news influencers.”  SO
T 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3107a / MMES 1121a, International Relations of the Middle East  Katherine Ingram

In this course, students develop the tools needed to understand contemporary international relations between the states of the Middle East and North Africa. The course focuses on two fundamental aspects of politics: historical context and strategic incentives. Most weeks focus on major events in a specific country or subregion, developing a historical background for that area and for how those events shaped the region more broadly. We also discuss broader topics that affect the region as a whole, including sectarianism, oil wealth, violent non-state actors, and extraregional powers.  SO
HTBA

* PLSC 3124b / GLBL 3342b, Studies in Grand Strategy I  Mary Sarotte

The study of grand strategy, of how individuals and groups can accomplish large ends with limited means. The spring term focuses on key moments in history that illustrate strategic thinking in action. During the summer, students undertake research projects or internships analyzing strategic problems or aspects of strategy. The following fall, students put their ideas into action by applying concepts of grand strategy to present day issues. Admission is by application only; the cycle for the current year is closed. This course does not fulfill the history seminar requirement, but may count toward geographical distributional credit within the History major for any region studied, upon application to the director of undergraduate studies. Previous study courses in political science, history, global affairs, or subjects with broad interdisciplinary relevance encouraged.  HU, SO
W 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3125a / GLBL 3344a / HIST 3783a, Studies in Grand Strategy II  Mary Sarotte

The study of grand strategy, of how individuals and groups can accomplish large ends with limited means. During the fall term, students put into action the ideas studied in the spring term by applying concepts of grand strategy to present day issues. Admission is by application only; the cycle for the current year is closed. This course does not fulfill the history seminar requirement, but may count toward geographical distributional credit within the History major for any region studied, upon application to the director of undergraduate studies. Prerequisite: PLSC 321. Previous study courses in political science, history, global affairs, or subjects with broad interdisciplinary relevance encouraged.  SO  0 Course cr
W 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3144a / HELN 2230a / HIST 2231a, The Greater War (1911–1923)  Charalampos Minasidis

The concept of the Greater War expands the chronological and geographical scope of the study of the Great War (1914–1918). It focuses on the social, economic, political, and cultural developments that either influenced or were a direct consequence of the Great War. It includes all conflicts and fronts from the Italian-Ottoman War of 1911 and the Balkan Wars of 1912–1913 that initiated a new era of imperialism and nationalism with weaker empires as victims, to the mobilization of states and people across the globe from 1914 onwards, the continuation of the violence after 1918, up until the end of the Russian Civil War and the compulsory population exchange between Greece and Turkey in 1923 that marked a new era for the relationship between states and their citizens. The seminar offers a “from above” and a “from below” view of the Greater War, examining how the war influenced, shaped, and reshaped both the states and their societies. It aims to familiarize the students with its fundamental chronology, events, and actors by exposing them to the new historiography of war, its questions, and concepts.  WR, HU
T 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3211a / HIST 3190a, Congress in the Light of History  David Mayhew

This reading and discussion class offers an overview of U.S. congressional history and politics from 1789 through today, including separation-of-powers relations with the executive branch. Topics include elections, polarization, supermajority processes, legislative productivity, and classic showdowns with the presidency.  Emphasized is Congress's participation in a sequence of policymaking enterprises that have taken place from the launch of the nation through recent budget difficulties and handling of climate change. Undergrads in political science and history are the course's typical students, but anyone is welcome to apply.  SO
W 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3214a, The Politics of Crime and Punishment in American Cities  Allison Harris

This course explores the relationship between politics and crime and punishment. We review literature focused on political behavior and political institutions to better understand the phenomena we hear about in the news from sentencing algorithms, to felon (dis)enfranchisement, to stop-and-frisk, and police use of force.  SO
HTBA

* PLSC 3217a / EP&E 4390a / EVST 3212a, Democracy and Sustainability  Michael Fotos

Democracy, liberty, and the sustainable use of natural resources. Concepts include institutional analysis, democratic consent, property rights, market failure, and common pool resources. Topics of policy substance are related to human use of the environment and to U.S. and global political institutions.  WR, SO
Th 9:25am-11:20am

* PLSC 3221a / EP&E 4306a, First Amendment and Ethics of Law  Karen Goodrow

This course addresses the First Amendment and freedom of speech, focusing on the ethical implications of restrictions on free speech, as well as the exercise of free speech. Course topics and discussions include the “fighting words” doctrine, hate speech, true threats, content regulated speech, freedom of speech and the internet, and the so-called “right to be forgotten.” By the end of the course, students recognize the role free speech plays in society, including its negative and positive impacts on various segments of society. Students also have an understanding of the competing interests arising from the First Amendment’s right to free speech, and can analyze how these competing interests are weighed and measured in the United States as compared with other countries.  SO
W 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3224a, Cities: Making Public Choices in New Haven  John DeStefano

Examination of cities, particularly the relationship of people to place and most importantly to one another, through the prism and experiences of the City of New Haven. Exploration of how concepts of social capital and legitimacy of institutions in policy design and execution, are key to the well being of community residents. How cities, in the context of retreating or antagonistic strategies by the state and  federal governments, can be key platforms for future economic and social wealth creation.  SO
W 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3233a / EDST 2238a / EDST 238, The Politics of Public Education  Jennifer Berkshire

Examination of the deep political divides, past and present, over public education in the United States. Fundamental questions, including who gets to determine where and how children are educated, who should pay for public education, and the role of education as a counter for poverty, remain politically contested. The course explores these conflicts from a variety of political perspectives. Students learn journalistic methods, including narrative, opinion and digital storytelling, developing the necessary skills to participate in the national conversation around education policy and politics.  WR, SO
T 9:25am-11:20am

* PLSC 3236a, The Chief and the Bureaucrats: Power Dynamics in the U.S. Executive Branch  Christina Kinane

This seminar provides an in-depth exploration of the U.S. President's role within the executive branch, focusing specifically on the interactions between the Chief Executive and the federal bureaucracy, offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights. Students examine the constitutional foundations that establish and limit presidential power; the operational structure of the federal bureaucracy; the power dynamics that characterize the relationship between the President and bureaucratic agencies; the strategic tools and mechanisms at the President's disposal to direct and control bureaucratic actions; and the common institutional constraints that shape and sometimes hinder a president's ability to exert influence over the bureaucracy. The course addresses both historical and contemporary examples, providing a comprehensive view of how different administrations have navigated the challenges of bureaucratic management. Through case studies, students analyze significant instances where these constraints have impacted presidential decisions and policy implementations. Seminar discussions also consider how executive politics scholars study presidential power and control of the bureaucracy -- highlighting their questions and the tools and approaches they employ to answer those questions.  SO
W 9:25am-11:20am

* PLSC 3249a / EDST 1223a / EDST 223, Learning Democracy: The Theory and Practice of Civic Education  Amir Fairdosi

This is a seminar on the theory and practice of civic education. We begin by investigating philosophies of civic education, asking such questions as: What is civic education and what is its purpose? What knowledge, skills, and values promote human flourishing and the cultivation of a democratic society? What roll can and should schools play in this cultivation? In the next part of the course we focus on civic education in practice, exploring various approaches to teaching civics and the empirical evidence in support of each method’s effectiveness. We also discuss variations in access to civic education opportunities across socioeconomic, demographic, and national contexts, and how societies might deal with these disparities.  SO
T 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3251a / EDST 2232a, US Federal Education Policy  Eleanor Schiff

Though education policy is typically viewed as a state and local issue, the federal government has taken a significant role in shaping policy since the end of World War II. The centralization of education policy has corresponded with changing views in society for what constitutes an equitable educational opportunity. This class is divided into three topics: 1) the federal role in education broadly (K-12) and the accountability movement in K-12: from the No Child Left Behind Act to the Common Core State Standards (and cross-national comparisons to US schools), 2) federal role in higher education, and 3) the education industry (teachers unions and think tanks). EDST 1110 recommended.  SO
T 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3256a, Elite Behavior in Congressional Elections  Mellissa Meisels

This seminar examines the behavior of political elites in US congressional elections. Although voters ultimately determine election outcomes, the dynamics of electoral campaigns are fundamentally shaped by the choices of candidates, political parties, activists, and financial contributors. Political elites' behavior is a function of not just their straightforward preferences, but the incentives that they face. Among other topics, this course will cover the congressional election "fundamentals" in primary versus general elections, the positions and priorities candidates articulate in their campaigns, how parties, donors, and interest groups choose which candidates to support, and the potential effects of commonly proposed campaign finance and electoral reforms. Throughout the semester, special emphasis is placed on the challenges involved in making inferences about strategic interactions among political elites. Students not only become familiar with how political scientists conduct research, but also learn to reflect critically on the merits and limitations of existing approaches.  SO
W 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3258a / SOCY 3358a / WGSS 3258a, Bodies, Labor, and Politics  Isabelle Aboaf

Work is never “just work.” It is a deeply political phenomenon, moralized and regulated by states and societies alike. For those occupations that feature the physical body – such as professional athletes, fashion models, or sex workers – these politics are especially heightened. This course asks how labor politics and power operate through at the most intimate level: the body. When can we consider a job to be truly “embodied” —and with what consequences? How do these professions complicate the very idea of what constitutes “work”? Why are certain forms of embodied labor considered valuable by the state, and others cast as disposable or dangerous? We think critically about concepts such as bodily autonomy, public health, and beauty, and ask how these can (or should) factor into laws that affect the workplace. Drawing on feminist political theory and labor studies, we examine more closely the politics of different kinds of embodied work. Across these cases, we examine the deeper ethical questions and political stakes underlying their regulation. As a Writing in the Discipline course, we also develop practical approaches to writing and demystify the process of producing evidence-driven academic arguments.  SO
TTh 2:35pm-3:50pm

* PLSC 3301a, Advanced Topics in Modern Political Philosophy  Giulia Oskian

This seminar explores key concepts in modern political philosophy. This term our thematic focus is on the relation between civil society and state institutions, as it has been conceptualized by political philosophy. Prerequisite: substantial course work in intellectual history and/or political theory. Appropriate for graduate students preparing for the political theory field exam.  HU, SO
W 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3324a / PHIL 4464a, Justice, Taxes, and Global Financial Integrity  Thomas Pogge

Study of the formulation, interpretation, and enforcement of national and international tax rules from the perspective of national and global economic justice. Prerequisites: previous courses in one or two of the following: law, economics, political science, or political philosophy.  HU
T 4pm-5:55pm

* PLSC 3338a / HUMS 3730a, Order and Disorder  Mordechai Levy-Eichel

Visions of order and fears of disorder underlie most political visions. But what is order, and what is disorder? Where do our ideas and visions of order (or the lack thereof) come from? Is order necessary to politics, to art, to science? What actually generates political orders? Is it top down? Is it bottom up? Can we even know, and if so, how do we know? Where does disorder come from? Is it inevitable? Is it dangerous? Is it fruitful? (All of the above?) What kinds of order are there? What is the relationship between order and disorder, politically and otherwise? This course exams the various conceptions that underlie much of our thinking and habits about politics and other spheres. Readings include both primary and secondary literature, ranging from political theory and history to poetry and anthropology.  SO
T 7pm-8:55pm

* PLSC 3339a / EP&E 4246a, Participatory Democracy  Amir Fairdosi

What does democracy look like without elections? In this class, we discuss the theory and practice of “participatory” forms of democracy (i.e. those that allow and encourage citizens to influence policy directly, rather than indirectly through elected representatives).  SO
Th 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3341a / CLCV 3910a / EP&E 3341a / HUMS 2210a / PHIL 3380a, Plato  Daniel Schillinger

In this Interpretations seminar on Plato, we read the Alcibiades I, Laches, Protagoras, Symposium, Phaedrus, and Statesman–rich and complex dialogues that are rarely taught at the undergraduate level. These texts display Plato's philosophical and literary range, from his so-called early or Socratic period to his late, almost univocal style. At the same time, the dialogues address a family of questions about virtue, eros, and political rule. Reading Plato across the dialogues, we also raise methodological questions and engage with relevant secondary literature. Previous coursework on Plato in Directed Studies, Political Science, or Philosophy is expected.   WR, HU
MW 2:35pm-3:50pm

* PLSC 3378a, Economic Inequality: Canonical & Contemporary Critiques  Kieran Mabey

Western societies have long been defined by the presence of the rich and the non-rich, haves and have-nots; Western thinkers have likewise been defined by the presence of the rich and the non-rich in their political thought. This course examines this long history of economic inequality to see how it has been both justified and condemned, starting with the ancient Greeks and culminating in our contemporary American moment.
W 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3403a / AFST 3366a / EP&E 305 / EP&E 4305a / HIST 2367a, Bureaucracy in Africa: Revolution, Genocide, and Apartheid  Jonny Steinberg

A study of three major episodes in modern African history characterized by ambitious projects of bureaucratically driven change—apartheid and its aftermath, Rwanda’s genocide and post-genocide reconstruction, and Ethiopia’s revolution and its long aftermath. Examination of Weber’s theory bureaucracy, Scott’s thesis on high modernism, Bierschenk’s attempts to place African states in global bureaucratic history. Overarching theme is the place of bureaucratic ambitions and capacities in shaping African trajectories.
W 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3411a / EDST 1282a, Comparative International Education  Mira Debs

Around the world, education is one of the central institutions of society, developing the next generation of citizens, workers and individuals. How do countries balance these competing priorities? In which ways do countries converge on policies, or develop novel approaches to education? Through the course, students learn the a) impact of colonialism on contemporary education systems, b) the competing tensions of the demands of citizen and worker and c) how a variety of educational policies are impacted around the world and their impact on diverse populations of students. EDST 1110 recommended.  WR, SO
T 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3456a / GLBL 4405a, Self-Determination, Secession & Accommodation  Maria Jose Hierro

This seminar offers specialized instruction on self-determination and secession, combining insights from scholarly research with in-depth case study analysis to explore the complexity of contemporary secessionist conflicts. We focus on two key multinational states: Spain—an advanced Western democracy—examined through Catalonia’s independence movement, and India—an influential Global South country—through the case of Tamil Nadu. The course also engages with other high-profile cases, such as Greenland, Somaliland, and Republika Srpska, paying particular attention to the role and strategic interests of the United States in shaping international responses and influencing the trajectory of these conflicts. Students should have taken at least one Comparative Politics and/or International Relations introductory course.   SO
Th 9:25am-11:20am

* PLSC 3464b / HIST 3768b / JDST 3451b / RLST 3240b, The Global Right: From the French Revolution to the American Insurrection  Elli Stern

This seminar explores the history of right-wing political thought from the late eighteenth century to the present, with an emphasis on the role played by religious and pagan traditions. This course seeks to answer the question, what constitutes the right? What are the central philosophical, religious, and pagan, principles of those groups associated with this designation? How have the core ideas of the right changed over time? We do this by examining primary tracts written by theologians, political philosophers, and social theorists as well as secondary literature written by scholars interrogating movements associated with the right in America, Europe, Middle East and Asia. Though touching on specific national political parties, institutions, and think tanks, its focus is on mapping the intellectual overlap and differences between various right-wing ideologies. While the course is limited to the modern period, it adopts a global perspective to better understand the full scope of right-wing politics.  HU, SO
M 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3467a, The War in Ukraine  David Cameron

This course examines in detail why Russia decided in February 2022 to begin a “special military operation” that turned out to be nothing less than a full-fledged war against Ukraine. While it is obviously not a course in military strategy and operations, it does consider certain important developments since the war began nearly two years ago, including most recently the Ukrainian counteroffensive that began in early June. But the focus is primarily on understanding why the war happened and why, almost two years later and notwithstanding the immense costs to both sides, it continues today.  SO
HTBA

* PLSC 3468a / GLBL 3289a / HIST 3245a, War and Peace in Northern Ireland  Bonnie Weir

Examination of theoretical and empirical literature in response to questions about the insurgency and uneasy peace in Northern Ireland following the peace agreement of 1998 which formally ended the three-decade long civil conflict known widely as The Troubles and was often lauded as the most successful of its kind in modern history. Consideration of how both the conflict and the peace have been messier and arguably more divisive than most outside observers realize.  SO
W 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3469a / SAST 3480a, The Politics of Contemporary India  Adam Auerbach

India is home to one-sixth of the world’s population. It is the world’s largest democracy and one of its biggest economies. Since gaining independence from colonial rule in 1947, India has made important strides in reducing poverty, expanding public services, and boosting literacy, public health, and public infrastructure. India, however, presents a range of serious governance and development challenges. Its public institutions are often described as unresponsive to citizen needs, in part due to shortcomings in representation and capacity. Stubborn inequalities persist across ethnic and gender lines, fragmenting economic opportunity and political voice. Cities in India are rapidly growing without adequate planning. As a consequence, millions of people reside in India’s urban slums, defined by their informality and lack of access to basic public services. Climate change shocks—heat waves, flooding, drought—are expected to increase in frequency and severity, hampering development. Air pollution is causing alarming health crises and inadequate waste management is contaminating soil and water. The guiding objective of this course is for students to gain a deep understanding of political trends in post-1947 India. To situate the course’s material in larger theoretical frameworks, we will concurrently examine several major themes in comparative politics, including democratization, federalism, decentralization, electoral politics, ethnic conflict, gender, environmental politics, and the political economy of development. Therefore, in addition to area studies knowledge, students will build further expertise in comparative politics. Students will be expected to demonstrate effective writing, rigorous analytical thinking, and conceptual precision.
T 9:25am-11:20am

* PLSC 3470a / HELN 3050a / HIST 2251a, The Age of Revolutions  Charalampos Minasidis

This seminar examines the “dual revolution,” namely the industrial and political revolutions of the late 18th and early 19th centuries that reshaped the world. It investigates the Age of Revolution in historical perspective by focusing on selective cases from the American and French Revolutions to that of Greece, Haiti and the unsuccessful ones of 1848. It studies their origins, their impact, and their legacies. It examines the emergence of republicanism, constitutionalism, nationalism, capitalism, socialism, feminism and the movements and political projects these ideas formed across Europe and North America. The seminar offers a “from above” and a “from below” view of the Age of Revolution, examining how it influenced, shaped, and reshaped both the states and their societies. It aims to familiarize the students with its fundamental chronology, events, and actors, by exposing them to the new historiography, its questions, and concepts.  WR, HU
W 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3472a, The Politics of Southeast Asia  Lucille Right

This seminar provides students with an introduction to recent political history and modern political institutions of Southeast Asia. Students develop a familiarity with major theoretical works in the field of comparative politics through their application to case studies within the region. In the first five weeks of the course, we begin with a comparative study of colonialism, nationalism, mass atrocity, and transitional justice across the region in the 20th century. Then, we pivot to the study of modern politics in eight of the region’s countries, covering concepts such as clientelism, democratic backsliding, protest movements, party machines, authoritarian durability, repression, and ethnic politics through the in-depth study of one to two countries per week.
Th 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3473a, The Political Economy of Democratic Erosion  Eli Rau

What is causing the recent wave of democratic erosion around the world? What can be done to stop it? In democracies that have already experienced erosion, can the damage be reversed? In this class, we study democratic erosion with particular attention to economic factors, including economic performance and distribution. We examine the role of the economy in political polarization, cultural cleavages, migration, and attitudes towards democracy — and, in turn, the stability of democracy.
T 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3474b / HELN 2221b / HIST 2221b / SOCY 2221b, Modern Greek History  Charalampos Minasidis

This seminar examines Modern Greek History from the 18th century to the early 21st century, focusing on the political, social, economic, and cultural transformations that have shaped the Greek world. It explores the turbulent experiences of Greeks both within and beyond the borders of the modern state, paying particular attention to the violent events and historical ruptures that defined this period. The course traces the evolving idea of Hellenism by analyzing competing visions, political movements, and ideological projects that influenced its development. It investigates the origins, impact, and legacy of key historical changes, reconstructing the formation of Greek statehood, society, and identity. Special emphasis is placed on events with global resonance, including the Greek Revolution, the 1923 compulsory population exchange, and the Greek Civil War. The seminar also introduces students to major historiographical debates, conceptual frameworks, and methodological tools, while building familiarity with the key events, timelines, and figures of Modern Greek History.  WR, HU, SO
Th 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3476b / HELN 3040b / HIST 2706b / SOCY 3040b, Civil Wars  Charalampos Minasidis

This seminar introduces students to the study of civil wars, examining the underlying ideas, dynamics, and motivations that drive such internal conflicts. Drawing on a broad range of geographically diverse case studies, from the French Religious Wars to civil wars in Greece, Colombia, Kenya, and El Salvados, it explores key thematic issues in the historical development of civil wars and interrogates the blurred boundaries between civil wars and other forms of warfare, including (counter-)revolutionary, (anti-)colonial, partisan, and genocidal conflicts. The course further investigates the global interconnections and enduring legacies of civil wars through a comparative and relational analytical framework. By conceptualizing various forms of warfare as civil wars, the seminar enables a nuanced examination of the political, social, national, ethnic, separatist, and colonial dimensions of violence. At the same time, its transnational and comparative approach challenges exceptionalist interpretations traditionally found in the study of civil wars.  WR, HU, SO
T 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3478a / GLBL 3350a, Democratization and Democratic Reversals  Katharine Baldwin

This course considers the factors that generate changes between democratic political institutions and autocratic ones. What factors encourage democratization and what factors facilitate democratic reversals? Particular attention is given to economic, institutional, and social factors that can protect against democratic reversals, and the levers domestic and international policymakers have for encouraging a democratic future. Students also gain skills in conducting research for policy reports and in writing long and short policy documents.  SO
M 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3479a / GLBL 2479a, Politics of Corruption and Development  Staff

Corruption threatens to undermine economic development, human flourishing, global security, and trust in government. Anger over political corruption and its effects on development are reaching a boiling point across the globe, as “Gen-Z” protests oust leaders in countries as diverse as Mongolia, Madagascar, and Nepal. This course explores the politics of corruption and anti-corruption mobilization, paying special attention to the role of political institutions in enabling corruption or fostering accountability. While this course focuses primarily on the forms of corruption that impede development in low- and middle-income countries, we also consider historical and contemporary applications to corruption in rich countries, including the United States. Some questions covered include: How do we define, categorize, and measure corruption? When and how does corruption undermine—or, in some cases, facilitate—economic development and state-building? How do kleptocrats maintain power, and when do citizens mobilize against corruption, on the streets or at the ballot box?
M 1:30pm-3:25pm

* PLSC 3480a, Advanced Democracies  Charles McClean

This course examines political challenges facing advanced democracies in the 21st century. Rather than focusing on democratic transitions or regime stability, we investigate what political problems emerge after democracy consolidates. Topics include the puzzle of redistribution, unequal political representation, welfare state restructuring, globalization's winners and losers, migration and membership, populism and democratic backsliding, demographic change, gender and care policy, and climate change. The course emphasizes both foundational theoretical frameworks and cutting-edge empirical research in comparative political economy.
HTBA

* PLSC 3481a / EP&E 3481a, Electoral Systems and Democratic Innovations  Eli Rau

In this course, we study approaches to making collective decisions in democracies. We will consider a wide variety of electoral rules and decision-making systems in use around the world, as well as proposed alternatives. Does universal mandatory voting improve representation? For what types of issues is it better to rely on representative government versus forms of direct or participatory democracy? In balancing accountability and expertise, which government roles should be elected versus appointed?
T 9:25am-11:20am

* PLSC 3482a, Elections Institutions and Contestation in Africa  Katharine Baldwin and Jessica Hickle

Students examine elections in Africa, focusing on four case studies that represent different post-colonial political trajectories -- Ghana, Malawi, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. Using these cases and theoretical approaches from political science, students consider: What conditions facilitate free, fair, and legitimate elections? How do citizens, politicians, and civil society respond when they are not? When do elections result in representation of citizens' interests?  SO
T 9:25am-11:20am

PLSC 3508a or b / CPSC 1230a or b / S&DS 1230a or b / S&DS 5230a or b, YData: An Introduction to Data Science  Staff

Computational, programming, and statistical skills are no longer optional in our increasingly data-driven world; these skills are essential for opening doors to manifold research and career opportunities. This course aims to dramatically enhance knowledge and capabilities in fundamental ideas and skills in data science, especially computational and programming skills along with inferential thinking. YData is an introduction to Data Science that emphasizes the development of these skills while providing opportunities for hands-on experience and practice. YData is accessible to students with little or no background in computing, programming, or statistics, but is also engaging for more technically oriented students through extensive use of examples and hands-on data analysis. Python 3, a popular and widely used computing language, is the language used in this course. The computing materials will be hosted on a special purpose web server.  QR
HTBA

PLSC 4342a / EP&E 4220a, Strategic Models of Politics  Milan Svolik

Introduction to formal political theory including application of rational choice and game theoretic analysis. Key topics and findings include: why voters vote in elections; how candidates choose platforms; why common resources tend to be overexploited; whether the state is needed for public good provision; how electoral systems shape politicians' and voters' behavior; whether voters can hold politicians accountable for their performance in office; how constitutions affect politicians' incentives to compromise; and why countries fight wars.  SO  0 Course cr
HTBA

* PLSC 4507a, Applied Quantitative Research Design  Shiro Kuriwaki

Research designs are strategies to obtain empirical answers to theoretical questions. This class trains students with the best practices for implementing and communicating rigorous quantitative social science research. We cover econometrics techniques of causal inference, prediction, and missing data. These include fixed effects, time series, instrumental variables, survey weighting, and shrinkage. This is a hands-on, application-oriented class. Students will practice programming, statistics, and data visualizations used in exemplary quantitative social science articles. Formal section enrollment is not required but highly encouraged. Prerequisite: Any statistics or data science course that teaches ordinary least squares regression and p-values, such as S&DS 230. Some past or concurrent experience with a programming language such as R is also presumed. Ph.D. students in political science can join without prerequisite.  QR, SO  0 Course cr
TTh 9:25am-10:15am

* PLSC 4700a and PLSC 4701a, Individual Reading for Majors  Maria Jose Hierro

Special reading courses may be established with individual members of the department. They must satisfy the following conditions: (1) a prospectus describing the nature of the program and the readings to be covered must be approved by both the instructor and the director of undergraduate studies; (2) the student must meet regularly with the instructor for an average of at least two hours per week; (3) the course must include a term essay, several short essays, or a final examination; (4) the topic and/or content must not be substantially encompassed by an existing undergraduate or graduate course. All coursework must be submitted no later than the last day of reading period.
HTBA

* PLSC 4704a, Directed Reading and Research for Junior Intensive Majors  Maria Jose Hierro

For juniors preparing to write yearlong senior essays as intensive majors. The student acquires the methodological skills necessary in research, identifies a basic reading list pertinent to the research, and prepares a research design for the project. All coursework must be submitted no later than the last day of reading period.
HTBA

* PLSC 4900a, The Senior Colloquium  Maria Jose Hierro

Presentation and discussion of students' research proposals, with particular attention to choice of topic and research design. Each student frames the structure of the essay, chooses research methods, begins the research, and presents and discusses a draft of the introductory section of the essay. Enrollment limited to Political Science majors.
W 9:25am-11:20am

* PLSC 4901a, Yearlong Senior Essay (II)  Maria Jose Hierro

Each student writing a yearlong senior essay establishes a regular consultation schedule with a department member who, working from the prospectus prepared for PLSC 4900, advises the student about preparation of the essay and changes to successive drafts. After PLSC 4900. Enrollment limited to Political Science majors writing a yearlong senior essay.
HTBA

* PLSC 4903a, Senior Essay (III) for Intensive Majors  Maria Jose Hierro

Each student in the intensive major establishes a regular consultation schedule with a department member who, working from the prospectus prepared for PLSC 4900, advises the student about preparation of the essay and changes to successive drafts, as well as reporting the student's progress until submission of the final essay. Enrollment limited to Political Science intensive majors.
HTBA