PHYSICS

Mark Taylor (2001), Associate Professor of Physics
B.S., Massachusetts Institute of Technology;
Ph.D., Brandeis University

Academic Interests: My research interests are in the area of soft condensed matter physics, a cross-disciplinary field that links physics with chemistry, biology, and materials science.  I use both analytic theory and computer simulation methods to study the microscopic structure and thermodynamic properties of complex fluid systems such as polymers, liquid crystals, and biological macromolecules.  My current research is on conformational properties and structural phase transitions (i.e., collapse and freezing or "folding") for a single polymer chain and for a polymer chain in explicit solvent.

Laura Van Wormer (1993), Professor of Physics, Director of Institutional Research
B.S., University of Toledo;
M.S., Ph.D., University of Notre Dame
Academic Interests: I am involved with the physics education research community, specifically in cooperation and collaboration with our education department. We are responding to the national need for teachers, both pre-service and in-service, who are confident in their knowledge of physics and who are using techniques proven to be effective by education research.

Department Web address: http://www.hiram.edu/physics

Introduction

The physics major is intended for students who are interested in the connection between basic physics principles and how the universe works. It provides them with a solid foundation for careers in business and education and for research and development positions in industry and government. It also prepares them for graduate work in physics or engineering, as well as being an unusual and attractive preparation for medical school or law school.

The courses taken toward the major in physics have a strong component in basic physics; in addition, the upper-level courses explore various core areas and specialties within physics. Emphasis in the department is placed on learning physics and its applications through critical thinking, problem solving, and laboratory experience. Students are encouraged to do independent study and research in areas of their interest. Sometimes advanced courses may be offered, depending on faculty and student interests and student needs. These courses may include topics such as mathematical and computational methods of physics, nuclear physics, astrophysics, and solid state physics. Students interested in majoring in physics should consult with a member of the Department of Physics as early as possible to ensure the proper sequence of courses.  Check out our web page at:  http://www.hiram.edu/physics.

Another opportunity within the physics department (as well as chemistry and computer science) is for a Dual degree in engineering to go along with the degree from Hiram. A student can attend Hiram College for three years, then if the requirements are met, transfer to Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH  or Washington University in St. Louis for two more years. At the end of the five years, that student would then graduate with a bachelor’s degree in physics from Hiram College and a bachelor’s degree in engineering from CWRU or Washington University.  Please check out the engineering catalog page for further information or go to the web site at http://www.hiram.edu/academics/majors-minors/engineering/

Requirements for Majors

A typical schedule for a physics major with strong math skills might be shown in "Physics Pathway A". Another possible schedule is shown in "Physics Pathway B" that lets students solidify their math skills before tackling the math-intensive science courses.

Physics Pathway A

Physics Pathway B

Speak with your advisor to determine which pathway is most appropriate for you.

• Physics 15000 Use of Test and Measurement Equipment;

• Physics 21300 & 21400 Fundamentals of Physics I & II;

• Physics 22500 Introductory Electronics;

• Physics 32000 Fundamentals of Modern Physics;

• Physics 44000 Advanced Laboratory;

Four from among the following:

• Physics 33000 Mechanics;

• Physics 33500 Thermal Physics;

• Physics 35000 Quantum Physics;

• Physics 36000 Electromagnetic Theory;

• Chemistry 35000 Physical Chemistry I

The physics capstone requirement is a one-credit hour senior seminar (Physics 48000) which includes a 30-minute public presentation and a written thesis on the student's senior research project. 

Required correlative courses:

• Math 19800, 19900 and 20000 Calculus I, II & III;
• Math 21800 Linear Algebra;
• Math 24300 Differential Equations;
• Computer Science 17000 or 17100, and 17200

Requirements for Minors

• Physics 21300 & 21400 Fundamentals of Physics I & II;
• Physics 32000 Fundamentals of Modern Physics;
• Three courses which must be selected from the other physics major courses;
• Math 19800, 19900 & 20000 are required;
• It is strongly recommended that Math 21800 and 24300 be taken as a correlative to the minor.

Requirements for Honors

Special Opportunities

Physics faculty have research interests in statistical mechanics, condensed matter physics, nuclear astrophysics and physics education and welcome student involvement. The physics department has research-quality equipment and facilities available for student projects and research including: lasers, oscilloscopes, and multichannel analyzers; radiation-detection equipment of all types; a neutron flux tank; low temperature Dewars; an ultra-high vacuum chamber; X-ray facilities; and a holography lab and darkroom. In addition, a complete machine shop and electronic facilities make it possible to modify and construct equipment. Computers are available for equipment interfacing and data acquisition. The department also has a computational physics laboratory that includes several high-end Unix workstations and a Beowulf cluster for numerically intensive computing.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

PHYS 00100: PHYSICS LAB hour(s)

This is the lab portion of lectures PHYS 11300, 11400, 21300, and 21400.

PHYS 11300: PRINCIPLES OF PHYSICS I-W/LAB:SM 4 hour(s)

An introduction to the basic concepts of physics including mechanics, wave motion, temperature, heat, and thermodynamics. The course is designed for the person with no physics background; however, the ability to use algebra and trigonometry is assumed. Students who have had a rigorous high-school physics course and have met the calculus prerequisite should take Physics 213 or 21300. Student must register for a PHYS 00100 lab. This course fulfills the Experimental Scientific Methods requirement. Offered every Fall 12 week. Prerequisite: high-school algebra and trigonometry. The breakdown between lecture and lab hours is for administrative office use only. This course may only be taken as 4 credit hours.

PHYS 11400: PRINCIPLES OF PHYSICS II-W/LAB:SM 4 hour(s)

A continuation of Physics 113 or 11300. Topics included are electrical, magnetic, and optical phenomena with emphasis on their use in modern technology followed by a qualitative and quantitative coverage of unique developments in the 20th century. These developments include Einstein's special theory of relativity, quantum mechanics, atomic and nuclear behavior and structure, and elementary particle theory. Laboratory work includes study of simple electrical circuits, measurement of electron charge and mass, and investigation of radioactivity. Offered every Spring 12 week. Student must register for a PHYS 00100 lab. This course fulfills the Experimental Scientific Methods requirement. Prerequisite: Physics (113 or 11300) or (213 or 21300).

PHYS 15000: USE OF TEST AND MEASUREMENT EQUIPMENT 1 hour(s)

An introduction to a range of equipment used for performing tests and measurements. In this course, students will learn the capability of, and gain experience using, such instruments as a data-logging digital multimeter, a digital oscilloscope, a function generator, a counter-timer, a frequency standard, and a pulse generator. They will also be introduced to the use of transducers (devices which turn real-world conditions such as force, pressure, temperature, position, etc. into electrical signals) and how these devices can be interfaced with a computer. The course will include the building of some very simple circuits and cover basic soldering techniques, cable making and testing, and computer interfacing protocol. Usually offered Spring 12 week. This course is offered pass/ no credit only.

PHYS 18000: WORKSHOP 1 hour(s)

This workshop will provide the opportunity for students to examine a special topic in Physics. Through readings, discussions and written assignments there will be opportunities to evaluate the topic at issue. Workshops may be taken Pass/No Credit only. Students may take no more than nine workshops for credit toward graduation. Workshops can be used as elective credit only.

PHYS 21300: FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICS I-W/LAB:SM 4 hour(s)

Fundamental concepts of physics with emphasis on acquiring analytical skill in the solution of problems. Fundamental principles and experimental laws of mechanics, wave motion, sound, heat, and thermodynamics will be covered. This course is for students, concentrating in science, who desire a thorough understanding of the fundamentals of physics. Students must register for a PHYS 00100 lab. This course fulfills the Experimental Scientific Methods requirement. Offered every Fall 12 week. Prerequisite: MATH (198 or 19800) and may be taken concurrently.

PHYS 21400: FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICS II-W/LAB:SM 4 hour(s)

A continuation of Physics 213 or 21300. Fundamental principles and experimental laws of electricity, magnetism, and optics will be covered. Students must also register for PHYS 00100 lab. This course fulfills the Experimental Scientific Methods requirement. Offered every Spring 12 week. Prerequisites: Physics (213 or 21300) and Mathematics (199 or 19900). (Mathematics 199 or 19900 may be taken concurrently.)

PHYS 22500: INTRODUCTORY ELECTRONICS-W/LAB 4 hour(s)

An introduction to the principles of electronics and the uses of electronic components. The laboratory will investigate the fundamentals of linear and digital circuits while using basic laboratory instruments such as oscilloscopes, waveform generators, and digital multimeters. Topics will include basic circuit theory, passive devices, junction and field effect transistors, operational amplifiers, digital logic, integrated circuit chips and optical solid-state devices. This course is designed for physics and chemistry majors and entails a considerable amount of problem solving. While not required, a familiarity with calculus would be helpful. Student must also register for a PHYS 22500 lab. The breakdown between lecture and lab hours is for administrative office use only. This course may only be taken as 4 credit hours. Prerequisites: Physics (114 or 11400) or Physics (214 or 21400). Also listed as CHEM 22500.

PHYS 28000: SEMINAR 1 - 4 hour(s)

PHYS 28100: INDEPENDENT STUDY 1 - 4 hour(s)

PHYS 29800: FIELD EXPERIENCE 1 - 4 hour(s)

PHYS 32000: FUNDAMENTALS OF MODERN PHYSICS-W/LAB 4 hour(s)

An experimental and theoretical development of fundamental concepts of modern physics, including the special theory of relativity, quantum mechanics, atomic and nuclear structure, and elementary particles. Offered every Fall 12 week. Student must also register for a PHYS 32000 lab. Prerequisites: Physics (214 or 21400) and Mathematics (200 or 20000). (Mathematics 200 or 20000 may be taken concurrently.)

PHYS 33000: MECHANICS 3 hour(s)

A course intended to develop an understanding of the principles of mechanics introduced in Physics 21300-21400 and to treat specific problems important in physics and engineering. The topics to be covered will include particle motion in one, two, and three dimensions; the motion of systems of particles; the motion of rigid bodies; rotation, gravitation, statistics, and moving frames of reference. Offered Fall 3 week, alternate years. Prerequisite: PHYS (320 or 32000)

PHYS 33500: THERMAL PHYSICS 4 hour(s)

Thermal or statistical physics provides the link between the microscopic world of atoms and molecules and the macroscopic world of everyday objects. A central goal is understanding the emergence of simple thermodynamic behavior in systems comprised of a large number of particles governed by an underlying chaotic dynamic. This course will cover the fundamentals of thermodynamics, ensemble theory, classical and quantum gases, transport processes, interacting systems, and phase transitions. Students will do a computational project using Monte Carlo simulation techniques to study a magnetic, liquid, polymer, or other many-body system. Offered Spring 12 week, alternate years. Prerequisite: Physics 320 or 32000.

PHYS 35000: QUANTUM PHYSICS 4 hour(s)

A theoretical course in quantum mechanics which significantly develops the basic concepts introduced by Physics 320 or 32000. Topics covered will include: A review of wave mechanics; Fundamental postulates state space, Dirac notation, operators, and eigenvectors; Commutation relations, observables, and time evolution; Three-dimensional systems and angular momentum; Spin and identical particles; Perturbation theory and other approximation methods; Measurement theory and "quantum reality". Offered Spring 12 week, alternate years. Prerequisite: Physics (320 or 32000) and Mathematics (218 or 21800). Mathematics (243 or 24300) is recommended.

PHYS 36000: ELECTROMAGNETIC THEORY 4 hour(s)

A theoretical course in classical electromagnetic theory. The course is intended to develop an understanding of electromagnetic theory that was introduced in Physics 214 or 21400 and to study specific problems in the classical theory concerning charged objects. The topics covered will include a review of vector calculus, electrostatics, electrical potentials, magnetostatics, electrodynamics, and an introduction to electromagnetic waves. Offered Spring 12 week, alternate years. Prerequisite: Physics (320 or 32000).

PHYS 38000: SEMINAR 1 - 4 hour(s)

PHYS 38100: SPECIAL TOPICS 1 - 4 hour(s)

PHYS 44000: PHYSICS ADVANCED LABORATORY 3 hour(s)

In this course students carry out a series of in-depth experiments in the areas of atomic physics, optics, solid state physics, and nuclear physics. Specific experiments include nuclear magnetic resonance, optical interferometry, X-ray scattering, and gamma-ray spectroscopy. A complete understanding of each experiment requires a synthesis of knowledge from several different fields of physics. The course stresses basic experimental techniques and data and uncertanity analysis along with oral and written presentation of experimental results. (Offered Spring 3-week, alternate years). Prerequisites: Physics (320 or 32000) and one other upper level physics course.

PHYS 48000: SENIOR SEMINAR 1 hour(s)

Students determine a research topic in which they are interested and have it approved by the physics faculty early in their senior year. The senior seminar may be based on research done during a summer research experience or on work done at Hiram. Although original research is preferred, a library research project using primary sources is acceptable. Successful fulfillment of this requirement will include a 30-minute public presentation and a one- to two-page abstract, including a bibliography.

PHYS 48100: INDEPENDENT RESEARCH 1 - 4 hour(s)

PHYS 49800: INTERNSHIP 4 hour(s)

POLITICAL SCIENCE

Douglas M. Brattebo (2010), Associate Professor of Political Science, Director of the James A. Garfield Center for the Study of the American Presidency
B.A., University of Iowa;
M.A., University of Maryland;
Ph.D., University of Maryland;
J.D., Georgetown University
Academic Interests: American Presidency, American politics and law, foreign and domestic policymaking

Jugdep Chima (2012), Associate Professor of Political Science
B.A., University of California at Berkeley;
Ph.D., University of Missouri at Columbia
Academic Interests:  methodology, comparative politics, international relations, ethnonationalism, South Asia.

John C. Koritansky (1970), Professor of Political Science, Retired
A.B., Cornell University;
M.A., Ph.D., University of Chicago
Academic Interests: American constitutional law, American politics, political philosophy; public administration

James A. Thompson (2008), Associate Professor of Political Science, Director of the Garfield Center for Public Leadership
B.A., St. Mary’s College;
M.A. Ph. D., University of Notre Dame
Academic Interests: international relations, political theory

Department Web address: 

http://admission.hiram.edu/learn/majors/major.php?id=23 

Another opportunity within the political science department is to pursue a 3:2 collaborative program in social administration with Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH. If a Hiram student meets the requirements of this program and is accepted, that student would spend 3 full-time years at Hiram College, followed by 2 full-time years at Case Western Reserve University’s renowned Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences. Upon successful completion of this 3:2 program, the student would receive a Bachelor of Arts from Hiram College and a Master of Science in Social Administration. For more information about requirements, please see the department chair.
 

Requirements for Majors

Political Science Pathway

The major in political science requires a total of nine political science courses plus a capstone experience. Classes must include: American Government POLS 10900 and one course from each of the four departmental subfields: American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political philosophy

Independent Capstone

Political science majors must complete a departmental capstone in consultation with their academic advisor. Students will complete a one- to four-hour, independent, directed study (48000) or research project (48100) or internship. The capstone course must be taken after a student achieves senior status. A formal departmental, campus-wide, or public oral presentation of the project is part of this requirement. This requirement differs for departmental honors candidates, as is explained in the following paragraph.

Honors

Candidates for departmental honors must achieve a general grade-point average and a departmental grade-point average whose sum equals at least 6.8. During their senior year, honors candidates will register for Honors 48200. Completion of this course will involve a paper of substantial length and quality, to be closely supervised by an advisor. This paper will be reviewed and must be accepted by the entire department faculty. The completion of the project will satisfy the capstone requirement.

Requirements for Minors

A minor in political science requires five courses chosen from the offerings of the department. Political science students regularly take part in various governmental internship and extramural programs, including the Washington Semester. Courses in political science engage students in thinking critically about fundamental causes and standards of political behavior. Students find this kind of education helpful in various careers, including government work, law, teaching, and political research.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

POLS 10900: AMERICAN GOVERNMENT:CA,ES 4 hour(s)

The government and politics of the United States in its national aspects. Some emphasis on constitutional and current problems. This course fulfills the Social and Cultural Analysis requirement and the Meaning, Ethics, and Social requirement.

POLS 10910: US GOVERNMENT 4 hour(s)

This course is designed to be equivalent but not identical to POLS 10900 (American Government) and counts in its place for departmental requirements. The purpose of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the constitutional underpinnings of the United States Government, the main institutions of national government, the roles of political action committees, political lobbies and interest groups, and the media and their effect on the political process and public policy. More important, students should have a better understanding of what it means to be an engaged citizen, of their own civic responsiblities, and of their own power to effect change. In the first week, students choose a controversial political issue to research in depth; they design multi-dimensional timelines of the issues and write pro and con arguments regarding a proposed legislative change regarding their issue. Students also participate in a number of interactive lessons, daily seminars, and meetings with representatives of the branches of government. Each group then designs a bill that relates to its chosen controversial issue and tries to push it through a session of Mock Congress that will convene at the end of the first week. In the second week, students travel to Washington, D.C. to familiarize themselves with the various branches of government through experiences. Based on their research during the first week of J-Term, they meet with lobbyists, journalists, elected officials, and members of think tanks relevant to their fields of research. Students close the course with a synthesis and reflection essay that challenges them to analyze both the socio-political and cultural contexts of their issue, as well as to analyze how a particular ethical theory best serves to evaluate the issue from a moral perspective. This course fulfills the Social and Cultural Analysis requirement and the Meaning, Ethics, and Social Responsibility requirement.

POLS 18000: WORKSHOP: 1 hour(s)

This workshop will provide the opportunity for students to examine a special topic in Political Science. Through readings, discussions and written assignments, there will be opportunities to evaluate the topic at issue. Workshops may be taken Pass/No Credit only. Students may take no more than nine workshops for credit toward graduation. Workshops can be used as elective credit only. (For PGS students only.)

POLS 20000: POLITICS OF JOURNALISM:CA 3 hour(s)

This course will provide students with an opportunity to study the effect of messages, information, and rhetoric from the popular press, and to learn how these messages influence political activity in this nation. The course will also show how what you watch, who presents it, and where it is presented can influence cultural and social attitudes. The goal is that, by the end of this course, students will: understand the various ways, whether verbal or visual, that messages are communicated through the press; understand the influence of business and economic considerations on news coverage, with a special focus on rational choice theory; understand the relationships between government policy, elected officials, activists, and the press; and understand how they can become more active in the ways they process political messages and information. This course fulfills the Social and Cultural Analysis requirement.

POLS 20100: POLITICS OF JOURNALISM 4 hour(s)

This course will provide students with an opportunity to study the effect of messages, information, and rhetoric from the popular press, and to learn how these messages influence political activity in this nation. The course will also show how what you watch, who presents it, and where it is presented can influence cultural and social attitudes. The goal is that, by the end of this course, students will: understand the various ways, whether verbal or visual, that messages are communicated through the press; understand the influence of business and economic considerations on news coverage, with a special focus on rational choice theory; understand the relationships between government policy, elected officials, activists, and the press; and understand how they can become more active in the ways they process political messages and information.

POLS 20200: POLITICS OF HUMAN RIGHTS:ES 4 hour(s)

This course provides a broad introduction to the politics of human rights. It examines several aspects of the relationship between politics and human rights, including the nature of contemporary human rights problems, issues, and discourse. First, it focuses on the philosophical and historical evolution of the concept of “human rights.” What are “human rights,” from where are human rights derived, are human rights universal or culturally-based, and how has the concept of human rights evolved over time? Secondly, it examines the effectiveness of various political actors, institutions, mechanisms, and conventions designed to protect human rights both domestically within countries and transnationally across borders. Third, it looks at specific case studies of human rights and their violation in different parts of the world including the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Some of these case studies may include genocide, torture, forced disappearances, and gender discrimination. A central premise of the course is that human rights cannot be separated from politics, and that human rights abuses and responses to them are best understood by examining the temporal and spatial political context in which they occur.

POLS 20500: WORLD GEOGRAPHY:CA 3 hour(s)

A basic course, organized to develop knowledge and an understanding of the physical factors of the environment and man's adjustment to them. World patterns of land forms, climate, soils, vegetation, etc., are studied in relation to their influence on the economic and cultural activities of man. Special emphasis will be placed on certain regions and on recent economic, cultural and political changes in those areas, and the significance of these changes to world economy and world peace. This course fulfills the Social and Cultural Analysis requirement.

POLS 20900: POLITICAL PARTIES & INTEREST GROUPS:CA 4 hour(s)

This course examines factions (political parties and interest groups), the unsavory effects of which the Founders sought to mitigate through their architecture of republican government. The course considers a wide variety of materials in seeking to understand how factions have come into being, how they have evolved, how they are organized, how they adapt and maintain themselves, how they choose their issues and tactics, whom they represent, and how they relate to each other. The central question is whether the effects that parties and interest groups have on the American polity and public policy are corrosive or salutary, and what, if anything could be done to improve their functioning.. This course fulfills the Social and Cultural Analysis requirement.

POLS 21000: STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT 4 hour(s)

A survey of governmental structures and processes at the sub-national level in the United States.

POLS 21600: THE AMERICAN PRESIDENCY 4 hour(s)

This course is an examination of the role of the presidency in the American constitutional system, and the changes that time and the divergent personalities of the presidents have brought about. Another version of this course is offered for three (3) credit hours as 21610. Prerequisite: A high school course in American Government.

POLS 21610: THE AMERICAN PRESIDENCY 3 hour(s)

This course is an examination of the role of the presidency in the American constitutional system, and the changes that time and the divergent personalities of the presidents have brought about. Another version of this course is offered for four (4) credit hours as 21600. Prerequisite: A High School Course in American Government.

POLS 22310: COMPARATIVE POLITICS 4 hour(s)

This course provides an introduction to comparative politics—the study of domestic political ideas, institutions, processes, and outcomes within and across countries. The first half of the course will be devoted to the methodological approaches and conceptual themes required for analyzing domestic politics within and across various cases. The second half of the course will apply these approaches and conceptual themes to the study of the domestic politics of select countries from various regions of the world including potentially South America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia through pair-wise comparisons. These empirical cases will span the range from totalitarian/authoritarian regimes to various types of democratic ones, and communist economic systems to more market-oriented ones. The purpose of the pair-wise comparisons will be to explain the contrasting political and/or economic conditions of the countries under examination by focusing primarily on the interplay of their comparative state formation, nature of society, dynamics of governance, and evolving political economy. This course is designed to furnish students with the analytical, conceptual, and theoretical tools necessary for studying the domestic politics and societies of various countries in a comparative descriptive and explanatory context. Fills both Cultural Analysis and Experiencing the World.

POLS 22800: INTERNATIONAL LAW 3 hour(s)

This course presents an analysis of the process by which international law is formed. Topics will range from regional developments and international treaties to the contributions of such modern philosophers as Hugo Groties. The role of international law in the twentieth century (since World War II) will be examined.

POLS 22900: INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION:ES 3 hour(s)

This course presents an analysis of the development of general functions and characteristics of international organization in the world arena. Specifically, the course will examine the role of the United Nations and regional organizations as political institutions in changing systems: the rise of the Third World; the cold war; and the post-cold-war world. This course fulfills the Meaning, Ethics, and Social Responsibility requirement.

POLS 23100: INTERNATIONAL POLITICS:CA 4 hour(s)

This course provides an introduction to the process and structure of international relations. The basic goals are to introduce the student to the domain of international politics and to provide familiarity with the major theoretical overviews. Students will develop the capacity to think about international phenomena beyond the level of specific events. This course fulfills the Social and Cultural Analysis requirement.

POLS 23200: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS OF SOUTH ASIA:CA,EW 3 hour(s)

South Asia – which is comprised of eight different countries (India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Maldives) – is home to over one-fifth of the world’s population. The region has consistently been described as “the most dangerous place on earth” because the confluence of nuclear-armed powers, enduring rivalries, potentially weak states, and cross-border terrorism. This course seeks to examine the international relations of South Asia (e.g., the politics between South Asian states and other world powers including the United States and China) through the analytical lens of the prevailing theories of international politics including (neo) realism, (neo) liberalism, and social constructivism/critical theory. While the primary empirical focus of the course is on the politics between South Asian states and the role of other international actors in the region, the domestic politics of South Asian states will also be examined in relation to the construction of identities and interests relevant to their foreign policies. Thus, the overall analytical goal of this course is to provide students with a critical understanding of both the international relations of South Asia and also the dominant theories in the field used to explain state behavior in foreign relations. This course will count toward the International Relations requirement for the political science minor and major. This course fulfills the Social and Cultural Analysis and the Experiencing the World requirement.

POLS 23400: POLITICS OF DEVELOPING AREAS:CA,EW 1 - 4 hour(s)

This course explores the unique political and socioeconomic challenges faced by “developing” (or Third World) countries in an increasingly globalized world. Developing countries–which encompass much of Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East–are home to over 80% of the world’s population, but produce only about one-fifth of the world’s wealth. Violent conflict and poverty are endemic in these countries, in comparison to developed countries. Most “developing” countries were also, at one time, colonial possessions of European powers and gained independence only in the early and/or middle 19th-century. This course specifically seeks to analyze the interrelated challenges of establishing a stable and effective state, integrated society, and prosperous economy faced by these countries, especially in an international system dominated by major “developed” powers. It will examine the theoretical literature related to issues of institutional development, national integration and economic development, and will look at specific case studies to vividly illustrate the conceptual themes and debates on the topic. These cases will also include “developing” countries currently moving from “third world” to “second world” status. Thus, the course will integrate theory with empirics, and will also point toward possible policy implications regarding general themes of political and economic development in the Third World. This course fulfills the Social and Cultural Analysis requirement and the Experiencing the World requirement.

POLS 23600: ANARCHY:IM 3 hour(s)

The purpose of the course is to examine how contemporary International Relations scholars have analyzed the concept of global anarchy, and then to compare that analysis with the treatment of anarchy by early modern contract theorists such as Locke, Hobbes and Rousseau, as well as 19th and 20th Century pro-anarchy theorists. Through this analysis, students will develop a more informed appreciation of 1) how international relations are carried out, 2) how and why domestic structures of hierarchy are created, 3) the potential for a global structure of hierarchical authority to be created, and 4) the costs and benefits of anarchical vs. hierarchical social structures. This course fulfills the Interpretive Methods requirement.

POLS 24100: THE TRANSATLANTIC RELATIONSHIP:EW 4 hour(s)

The Transatlantic Relationship constitutes one of the central aspects of contemporary international order. During the semester we will explore the relational history between various sets of states in Europe and North America; we will examine the history and present reality of the NATO alliance; we will consider the evolving political/military capacity of the European Union; and we will see how these various relations and institutions are influencing U.S. and European activities not only in Europe, but also in Iraq, in Afghanistan, and elsewhere. This course fulfills the Experiencing the World requirement.

POLS 26200: POLITICS OF SEX: 3 hour(s)

Sex, Gender and Sexuality are the cornerstones of human nature and yet we seldom have a sophisticated understanding of how these various factors are influenced by government and laws. In this course we will discuss the ways in which our understanding of politics, and our understanding of sexuality, influence how we live our lives in the U.S.

POLS 27400: MODERN POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY 4 hour(s)

A study of the history of modern political philosophy from Machiavelli to the present.Readings will be from the original texts by the seminal philosophers of liberalism, romanticism, Kantian ethics, Marxism and contemporary anti-rationalist thought.

POLS 27900: SELECTED TOPICS IN POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY 3 hour(s)

Taught in a seminar format, a close examination of one selected work from the tradition of political philosophy.

POLS 28000: SEMINAR 1 - 4 hour(s)

An introduction to selected topics of current interest in Political Science.

POLS 28100: INDEPENDENT STUDY 1 - 4 hour(s)

POLS 29100: GARFIELD CENTER FOR PUBLIC LEADERSHIP 1 hour(s)

This course will be comprised of activities which are engaged in each semester by the Garfield Center for Public Leadership. These activities may include such things as seminar planning and preparation, research activities, paper writing, crisis simulations, and group meetings/discussions. Garfield Scholars Only.

POLS 29800: FIELD EXPERIENCE 1 - 4 hour(s)

POLS 30100: OZ:THE PRE-INVASION 1 hour(s)

Throughout Australia’s history, its residents, as well as the land and surrounding ocean, have been subject to various “invasions” – actual, metaphorical, and perceived. These include: invasive animal and plant species forever changing the landscape of the continent; environmental and human threats to the Great Barrier Reef; native lands being removed from the Aboriginal people; and most recently, changes in political policies and military presence in response to China’s increased influence and probable future dominance in the oceanic region. In many ways, Australia’s history reflects our American history, but with notable differences in sociocultural and political responses. This course serves as a pre-requisite to INTD 30130 “Invading Oz,” a study-abroad trip to Australia offered in the subsequent 3-week term, and begins students’ examination of the similarities and differences between Australia and the United States. This course is cross-listed with PSYC 30100.

POLS 30160: 1 hour(s)

Kiwi Contentment (New Zealand Prequel): Survey studies and cultural analyses indicate that in recent years New Zealanders routinely rate as being among the happiest people in the world. In this course, we will conduct an interdisciplinary examination of human happiness at two levels of analysis: individual and societal. We have identified the following key themes, around which the course will revolve: 1) the pivotal role of fairness in determining the effectiveness of the relationship between individual and societal wealth and happiness; 2) the role of social connections in determining the happiness of individuals, as well as that of their country; and 3) the relationship between individual/self-focus, materialism, and happiness. We will examine how New Zealand differs from the United States in these respects, despite having substantial overlap in key values: both are wealthy, democratic, market-oriented societies that cherish the concept of freedom, yet the two countries have taken very different trajectories since the late 1970s. This course serves as a prerequisite to INTD 30150 “Going to the Godzone,” a study-abroad trip to New Zealand offered in the subsequent 3-week term, and begins students’ examination of the similarities and differences between New Zealand and the United States.

POLS 30600: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS OF SOUTH ASIA:CA,EW 3 hour(s)

South Asia – which is comprised of eight different countries (India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Maldives) – is home to over one-fifth of the world’s population. The region has consistently been described as “the most dangerous place on earth” because the confluence of nuclear-armed powers, enduring rivalries, potentially weak states, and cross-border terrorism. This course seeks to examine the international relations of South Asia (e.g., the politics between South Asian states and other world powers including the United States and China) through the analytical lens of the prevailing theories of international politics including (neo) realism, (neo) liberalism, and social constructivism/critical theory. While the primary empirical focus of the course is on the politics between South Asian states and the role of other international actors in the region, the domestic politics of South Asian states will also be examined in relation to the construction of identities and interests relevant to their foreign policies. Thus, the overall analytical goal of this course is to provide students with a critical understanding of both the international relations of South Asia and also the dominant theories in the field used to explain state behavior in foreign relations. This course will count toward the International Relations requirement for the political science minor and major. This course fulfills the Social and Cultural Analysis requirement and the Experiencing the World requirement.

POLS 31400: PUBLIC POLICY MAKING 4 hour(s)

This course offers an analysis of various elements of American domestic public policy; e.g., progressive taxation, welfare, anti-trust enforcement, and the politics of regulatory agencies. Also listed as Economics (31400).

POLS 31600: COMPARATIVE ELECTIONS 3 hour(s)

While America spends millions of dollars to implement, explain (and sometimes even hinder) how citizens vote, have you ever wondered how voting works in other countries? This course will provide a world tour of elections systems in first and second world democracies that are functioning as of 2012-2013. How does voting, campaign advertising and even candidate selection differ based on culture, fiancés and even differing institutions around the world? In this course we will review electoral systems in Mexico, South Africa, Japan and England and how these systems compare to the United States.

POLS 31700: COMPARATIVE FOREIGN POLICY 4 hour(s)

Comparative analysis of the foreign policies of representative world powers, including comparative methods of foreign policy analysis, and the world roles, foreign policy objectives, foreign policy-making and implementation process, foreign policies of such states as the Soviet Union (Russia), France, Germany, Britain, Japan, China, Egypt, and India.

POLS 31900: THE AMERICAN FOUNDING:IM,CA 4 hour(s)

In this seminar, we will perform an examination of the intellectual history of the American founding. We will read and analyze some statements by academic historians as well as important state papers and writings by the first generation of American statesmen. This course fulfills the Interpretive Methods requirement and the Social and Cultural Analysis requirement.

POLS 32000: ETHNICITY, NATIONALISM, AND POLITICAL VIOLENCE:CA 3 hour(s)

Why are individuals often willing to fight, kill, and possibly even die on behalf of a political or ethnonationalist cause? This is the main question this course seeks to answer. In trying to solve this puzzle, we also explore answers to a number of corollary questions such as: What is the nature of ethnicity? How is ethnicity politicized into nationalism? Why does nationalism often lead to political violence? What are the dynamics of political violence and how do we study them? This course seeks to answer these questions both conceptually and within a comparative empirical framework. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanidng and critically assessing competing descriptive and explanatory theories for these phenomena. These include primordialism and instrumentalism for ethnicity; rational-choice, social constructivism and socio-psychological theories for nationalist mobilization; and inductive, deductive and interpretivist approaches to the study of political violence including terrorism, insurgency, and ethnic riots. In addition, we will also analyze the comparative origins, dynamics, and trajectories of several violent ethnonationalist movements within the context of the thematic readings. The primary goal of this course is to provide students with a critical understanding of the complex phenomena of ethnicity, nationalism and political violence, and to spark their intellectual curiosity into areas for future descriptive and explanatory research. This course fulfills the Social and Cultural Analysis requirement.

POLS 32500: Course Description: INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM:CA 3 hour(s)

The attacks of September 11, 2001 and ongoing events have forced Americans to confront the phenomenon of international terrorism in a much more regular and engaged manner. Terrorism has gone from being a marginal security concern for most Americans to becoming one of the most pressing issues of our day, both nationally and internationally. Yet, in reality, “terrorism” has been a persistent and widespread phenomenon throughout the world well before the events of 9/11. It has deep historical roots, and has been an integral part of human political behavior and interaction. This course seeks to analyze the phenomenon of “terrorism” in a highly-analytical and academic (as opposed to normative) manner. The course itself is divided into three interrelated sections: 1) definitional conceptualizations of “terrorism,” 2) the descriptive nature of “identity,” and 3) the causal basis for “political violence.” Thus, the course contains a blend of theory (both explanatory and analytic), methodology, and empirics to help students better understand and grasp the multi-faceted complexity of “terrorism” and its wider implications. The primary goal of this course is to provide students with a critical and rich understanding of the phenomenon of “terrorism,” and to spark their intellectual curiosity for future research on the topic.

POLS 33000: AMERICAN FOREIGN POLICY 3 hour(s)

A study of major foreign policy issues which have confronted the United States since World War II and of the process of foreign policy formation and implementation. This course is also offered in a 4 credit hour format as POLS 33010.

POLS 33010: AMERICAN FOREIGN POLICY 4 hour(s)

A study of major foreign policy issues which have confronted the United States since World War II and of the process of foreign policy formation and implementation. This course is also offered in a 3 credit hour format as POLS 33000.

POLS 33500: TOWARDS A GLOBAL STATE 3 hour(s)

In various regions of the world, states appear to be combining themselves together into larger, regional-scale political entities. This course will examine the common motivations for integration in these various regions, focusing particularly on the rationale of increasing state size in order to increase military power. Building upon this analysis of the individual regions, consideration will then be given to whether these motivational trends suggest that a supra-regional, global state structure is likely to come into being in the future.

POLS 33700: THE ART OF WAR:ES 3 hour(s)

This course considers the topic of war from a philosophical perspective, with the idea being that an understanding of war is essential for understanding human life in its social context. This course examines such questions as: What is war? Is war between states inevitable? Are interpersonal human relations always a version of war? This course fulfills the Meaning, Ethics, and Social Responsibility requirement. This course was previously numbered POLS 237 or 23700. Another version of this course is offered for 3 credit hours as POLS 33710.

POLS 33710: THE ART OF WAR:ES 4 hour(s)

This course considers the topic of war from a philosophical perspective, with the idea being that an understanding of war is essential for understanding human life in its social context. This course examines such questions as: What is war? Is war between states inevitable? Are interpersonal human relations always a version of war? This course fulfills the Meaning, Ethics, and Social Responsibility requirement. This course was previously numbered POLS 237 or 23700. Another version of this course is offered for 3 credit hours as POLS 33700.

POLS 33900: URBAN ECONOMICS AND POLITICS 4 hour(s)

Application of economic principles to urban spatial patterns, economic development and public policy in housing, transportation, pollution and other contemporary urban problems. Prerequisites: Economics (201 or 20100) or permission of the instructor. This course is also offered in a 3 credit hour format as Political Science 33600. Also listed as Economics 33900.

POLS 34400: CONSTITUTIONAL LIBERTY/RIGHTS 4 hour(s)

A study of recent developments in American Constitutional Law in the areas of civil liberties and the equal protection of the laws. The aim is to interpret the meaning of the nationalization of the Bill of Rights and the judicialization of the broad issues of liberty and equality.

POLS 34500: THE COURT AND CONSTITUTIONAL GOVERNMENT:IM,ES 4 hour(s)

The history of American constitutional law from the Constitutional Convention through contemporary cases. Federalism, definition and separation of powers, and the power to regulate commerce, civil liberties, and civil rights will be emphasized. This course fulfills the Interpretive Methods requirement and the Meaning, Ethics, or Social Responsibility requirement. Prerequisite: Political Science 109 or 10900.

POLS 34600: ANCIENT FORESTS AND GREAT TREES 1 hour(s)

Ninety-eight percent of the world’s old-growth forests are gone. Whether humans presently living on the Earth are aware of it or not, we are witnessing what ultimately may come to be known as The Age When the Ancient Forests Disappeared. For a panoply of human-caused reasons, forests everywhere are in mortal peril. The course will conduct an interdisciplinary exploration of the subject at two levels of analysis: biological and societal. The following key dimensions of this theme will benefit from these distinct perspectives: 1) the way that the ancient forests of the world came into being and to function in their mature state; 2) the threats – nearly all of which are the product of human activity – that now imperil these ancient forests; 3) what might be done – by citizens, interest groups, and policymaking bodies at different levels of government – to ensure that what remains of our planet’s ancient forests are kept from oblivion. This course serves as a prerequisite to “Taking to the Trees” (INTD 30320), a study away trip to the Pacific Northwest and West Coast in the subsequent three-week term, and begins students’ examination of ancient forests and great trees.

POLS 35100: POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY FOR A DANGEROUS WORLD 4 hour(s)

This course examines the political theories of Thucydides, Cicero, and Machiavelli. The purpose of this course is to study how these three theorists explain states' efforts to obtain internally stable political regimes amidst their struggles with other states for survival. Not only will the theories of Thucydides, Cicero, and Machiavelli be examined individually, but the connections between their thories will simultaneously be explored. These three theorists are important to study as an ensemble because they take a pre-modern approach (as opposed to modern) to considering questions of international order, and thereby differ with the domestic-policy focus of other classical theorists such as Plato and Aristotle. However, they also differ from modern scholars of international politics, who are interested in a different set of questions than are the pre-modern theorists. This course was previously POLS 251 or 25100.

POLS 35110: POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY FOR A DANGEROUS WORLD 3 hour(s)

This course examines the political theories of Cicero, and Machiavelli. The purpose of this course is to study how these theorists explain states' efforts to obtain internally stable political regimes amidst their struggles with other states for survival. Not only will the theories of Cicero and Machiavelli be examined individually, but the connections between their thories will simultaneously be explored. These theorists are important to study as an ensemble because they take a pre-modern approach (as opposed to modern) to considering questions of international order, and thereby differ with the domestic-policy focus of other classical theorists such as Plato and Aristotle. However, they also differ from modern scholars of international politics, who are interested in a different set of questions than are the pre-modern theorists. A four-credit hour version is POLS 35100.

POLS 37300: CLASSICAL POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY 4 hour(s)

A study of the origin of political philosophy. Readings will be mainly from Plato and Aristotle, centering on their discussions of the nature of political justice and its relation to the just life.

POLS 37500: POLS 37500: CAMPAIGNS & ELECTIONS 3 hour(s)

The purpose of this course is to investigate the entire world of campaigns and elections in the United States. This will include, but is not limited to, basic theories of electoral behavior, campaign strategy and the beliefs and attitudes of political consultants.

POLS 37800: SCOPE AND METHODS 3 hour(s)

This course provides students with an opportunity to learn the methodological approaches they should employ in constructing research projects, such as their Capstone or Honors project, while also providing them with the guidance and instruction they need as they move from blank page to viable project. The course will review the proper creation of bibliographies, abstracts, literature reviews, and research methods in both qualitative and quantitative research.

POLS 37900: LOGIC & SCOPE OF POLITICAL INQUIRY:MM 4 hour(s)

This course critically analyzes the logic and scope of inquiry in political science specifically and the social sciences in general. The central questions driving this course are how can we study politics, and how do our choices of approach, method and modeling affect our empirical understanding of the phenomenon under examination? In other words, why is the study of politics called political "science," and is there anything "scientific" about it? This course will examine the epistemological foundations of the major analytical traditions in the field by analyzing their contrasts, complementarities, and functions. Some of these debates will include the following: explanatory versus interpretive, large-n versus small-n, quantitative versus qualitative, inductive versus deductive, and comparative versus case-studies. In addition to these debates, this course will also examine the implications and utility (both strengths and weaknesses) of using theories, models and paradigms in general for political science inquiry. In fact, the course will analyze the main analytical approaches and models used in the four major subfields of political science including classical versus modern interpretive approaches in political philosophy, behavioral versus institutional models in American politics, rationalist versus culturalist models in comparative politics, and (neo)realist versus (neo)liberal models in international relations. Students who take this course will become much more conscientious social scientists in terms of how the approaches and models we use for analysis affect our understanding of the political and social worlds. This course fulfills the Modeling Methods requirement.

POLS 38000: SEMINAR 1 - 4 hour(s)

Includes various topics or upper level specialty courses.

POLS 38100: SPECIAL TOPICS 1 - 4 hour(s)

POLS 47900: SELECTED TOPICS IN POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY 3 hour(s)

Taught in a seminar format, a close examination of one selected work from the tradition of political philosophy.

POLS 48000: SENIOR SEMINAR 1 - 4 hour(s)

POLS 48100: INDEPENDENT RESEARCH 1 - 4 hour(s)

POLS 48200: ADVANCED INDEPENDENT RESEARCH 1 - 4 hour(s)

POLS 49800: INTERNSHIP 6 hour(s)

POLS 61000: MODEL U.N. 1 hour(s)