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American Politics (POLS30030)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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This subject examines the key actors, ideas, interests and institutions in USA politics, including the Constitution, the President, Congress, the bureaucracy, political parties and ideologies, the courts, elections, the federal system, interest groups, the policy making process and political culture. It includes an examination of theoretical debates about the nature of US democracy, key controversies in US political history, such as the civil rights movement, as well as contemporary political debates and developments, such as the role of religion in US politics and the issue of political polarisation.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Demonstrate a critical understanding of the key institutional arrangements and actors of the American political system, in particular the three branches of US federal government: the Congress, the President and the Supreme Court;
  • Demonstrate a critical understanding of the key issues that shape American politics;
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the Constitution of the United States and how far it bounds American political discourse;
  • Demonstrate a critical understanding of how the American political system as a whole responds and adapts to social, cultural, and security challenges, including the differing roles of the various major political institutions.

Last updated: 19 September 2024