The department studies government, public law, and politics of the national, state and local levels, and among states in international relations. Its course offerings are divided into four fields: American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory. These fields permit two undergraduate majors. The government major emphasizes American politics and political theory, while the foreign affairs major emphasizes comparative politics and international relations. Both degree programs require study in all four of the department's fields; at the same time, they are designed to allow each student latitude in selecting of courses that meet specific interests.
The department's orientation is toward developing a critical understanding of the practical and theoretical dimensions of national and international governmental processes and institutions, as well as providing students with the necessary analytical and methodological skills. Rather than narrow specialization or vocational training, the department's programs are designed to prepare students for teaching and research, public service at all levels of government, and for other careers in fields such as business, foreign affairs, journalism, and public affairs.
Faculty With more than thirty-five faculty members, the department offers students access to a diverse group of internationally recognized scholars and teachers. The group includes a former Vice President of the American Institute of Iranian Studies, who now serves as a consultant to the White House, Departments of State and Defense and United Nations Secretariat, a vice president of the Rockefeller Foundation, who holds nine honorary doctorates, a recipient of Fulbright, Rockefeller, N.E.H. and American Council of Learned Societies fellowships, and a Rhodes Scholar, who is a frequent political commentator on "Face the Nation" and "Nightline." The faculty has published numerous influential books.
Students More than 650 students are currently seeking a degree in one of the two majors available in the Department. This large number means that introductory lecture courses are large (200-plus students). These courses are designed to give students an overview of a large topic ("National Government of the United States"). After these large courses, the student can pick from upper level courses and seminars which focus on more specific topics: Virginia Government and Politics, Japan in World Affairs, or Marxist Theories. Upper-level courses average thirty to forty students; seminars are limited to fifteen students. The department offers approximately 100 courses each year. In courses with large enrollments, teaching assistants lead discussion sections, which are limited to twenty students. Advanced students may enroll in graduate course work or pursue independent study topics.
Most students who receive a degree in government and foreign affairs go immediately into the work force. Corporations from around the country come to the University to recruit students. An increasingly large percentage of students, however, goes on to graduate work. Law is the most popular option, at Virginia's law school or other top schools such as Harvard and Stanford. Others choose graduate work in international relations, foreign affairs, or business.
Special Resources Internships: Several internship programs are available to students through various research centers located within the University. These include the Center for Middle East Studies, the Center for Slavic and Russian Studies, and the Miller Center for Public Affairs. In addition, there also are internships available through state agencies and in Washington, D.C. These are to be approved by the Internship Coordinator at the Center for Public Service, then approved by the Undergraduate Advisor.
Requirements for Major Students planning to major must see an Associate Undergraduate Advisor regarding admission and assignment to a faculty advisor. Prerequisites: Completion of at least three credits of work in this Department with no grade below "C" and a cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 2.0 are prerequisites for majors in Government or Foreign Affairs.
Government The major concentration in Government requires 30 credits of coursework, as specified below, including the three prerequisite hours. No more than nine credits taken at the 100 level may be counted toward the major. At least fifteen credits of course work in the department must be earned at the 300 level and above. At least six of these must be earned at the 400 and 500 levels.
The Government concentration requires the following minimum distribution of courses among the four fields:
I. American Politics - three credits
II. Comparative Politics - three credits
III. International Relations - three credits
IV. Political Theory - three credits
We strongly encourage majors to take this distribution requirement by the end of their third year.
V. Choice of GFAP or GFPT track -- students choosing the GFAP track must take nine additional credits in GFAP; students choosing the GFPT track must take nine additional credits in GFPT.
The remaining nine credits required for the Government major may come from departmental offerings in any of the four fields, depending upon student interests and objectives.
In addition to the 30 credits required in the Department of Government and Foreign Affairs, 12 credits of courses in closely related disciplines such as history, philosophy, the social sciences, and, in appropriate cases, in other related subjects, are required, no more than six credits of which should be taken at the 100 and 200 levels. The other six credits should be in advanced courses. The students should seek to construct their related course "package" in such a way that it contributes to their major subject field in as direct a fashion as possible, and to have this list of courses approved by their major advisor. Foreign Affairs The major concentration in Foreign Affairs requires 30 credits of coursework, as specified below, including the three prerequisite credits. No more than nine credits taken at the 100 levels may be counted toward the major. At least fifteen credits of coursework in the department must be earned at the 300 level and above. At least six of these must be earned at the 400 and 500 levels.
The Foreign Affairs concentration requires the following minimum distribution of courses among the four fields:
I. American Politics - three credits
II. Comparative Politics - three credits
III. International Relations - three credits
IV. Political Theory - three credits
We strongly encourage majors to take this distribution requirement by the end of their third year.
V. Area Courses -- six credits in a pair of courses which specialize in one area of the world, of which three should be in Comparative Politics and three in International Relations. Area courses may deal with all or part of Latin America, Western Europe, the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, Africa, or Eastern Europe and Russia.
VI. Six additional credits in either International Relations or Comparative Politics.
The remaining six credits required for the Foreign Affairs major may come from departmental offerings in any of the four fields, depending upon student interests and objectives.
In addition to the 30 credits required in the Department of Government and Foreign Affairs, 12 credits of courses in closely related disciplines such as history, philosophy, the social sciences, and in appropriate cases, in other related subjects, are required, no more than six credits of which should be taken at the 100 and 200 levels. Students should seek to construct their related course "package" in such a way that it will contribute to their major subject field in as direct a fashion as possible, and to have this list of courses approved by their major advisor.
In order to assist students in selecting departmental and related courses which meet their interests, the department has outlined several clusters of courses on forms available in the department office.
Both Majors A grade of C or better is necessary in any course counted toward the major. Students who earn a grade of C- or lower in three courses in the Department or who drop below a 2.0 GPA in the Department will not be allowed to continue as a major.
The 18 credits offered to fulfill the basic field requirements of the major must be taken in this department. Ordinarily, six of the remaining nine credits required for the major may be transferred from other institutions, with the approval of the departmental Undergraduate Advisor. Such approval is not automatic. In order to be counted toward the major, work done elsewhere must be of a suitable nature and quality and must be offered in compliance with departmental rules available from the Undergraduate Advisor. Students already enrolled at the University of Virginia who wish to take courses at other institutions (including foreign ones) must obtain advance approval from the Dean of the College and, for courses to be counted toward the major, from the departmental Undergraduate Advisor as well. Students who transfer to the University may transfer the three credits for the required prerequisite and up to six of the nine credits not specified as fulfilling basic field requirements for the major after proper validation.
Under no circumstance may advanced placement credit count toward fulfilling the major.
Requirements for Minor A minor program in Government and Foreign Affairs shall consist of at least 15 credits of course work taken at the University in at least two of the four fields of the Department, with a grade of C or better. At least nine credits must be in one field. Of the 15 credits, no more than six credits may be taken at the introductory (100) level. At least three credits must be taken at the 400 or 500 level. No Advanced Placement credit is allowed for a minor.
Students taking the minor in Government or Foreign Affairs should fill out a minor application in the Department's academic office (Cabell 240). At the beginning of their last semester before graduation, students should receive a PACE form which serves as the degree application. The PACE form must have a departmental advisor's signature. Students taking the minor program have access to the Undergraduate Advisor and may attend departmental guest lectures and informal seminars. The Department's rules for satisfactory standing apply.
Honors Program The Bachelor of Arts with honors, high honors, or highest honors may be awarded to students who follow a special course of study during the third and fourth years. It combines Honors seminars and a thesis with independent and ungraded study in this department and others. Written examinations are given at the end of each year and a general oral examination is conducted by an independent examining committee at the end of the fourth year. The John White Stevenson Prize may be awarded annually for the best Honors thesis.
Students of unusual academic distinction and promise may be selected for participation. They should consult with the department's Honors Program Advisor at the time of declaring a major. Before admission to Honors study, they should complete with superior grades at least three courses distributed among the fields of American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory.
The Distinguished Majors Program Students of high academic achievement are eligible for the Department's Distinguished Majors Program. Students completing the program graduate with distinction, high distinction, or highest distinction. A prerequisite of three credits of course work in the Department and departmental and University GPA's of 3.4 or above are required for admission. Students wishing to apply should submit an application form, a statement of interest in the DMP, a copy of their current transcript, and two sealed letters of recommendation from faculty members. Students may apply in the second semester of their third year. Application deadline is February 1.
In addition to the prerequisite, a DMP student is required to take 30 credits in the Department. These must include at least 15 credits at the 400 and 500 levels. These courses must also satisfy the general departmental distribution rules. The DMP student is also required to write a thesis of high quality for which six credits may be earned as part of the 33 credit total. Students complete their theses while enrolled in GFAD 496, which is a year-long course. Thesis work is done under the supervision of an individual faculty advisor.
Departmental recommendations for levels of distinction, high distinction, and highest distinction are based on (1) the quality of the student's thesis; (2) overall work in the major field of study; and (3) the student's overall College record.
Conferences and Special Activities Students and faculty of the department meet frequently in informal and off-the-record conferences throughout the session at which discussions are led by visiting authorities from government, business, and educational institutions. Speakers of distinction are also brought to the Grounds by student organizations, including those consisting primarily of students in the department. Field trips are organized when appropriate to study the operation of government and international relations at first hand in nearby Richmond, Washington, and the United Nations.
The Quincy Wright Library (Cabell Hall 211) is the Department's special reference collection. It is available to undergraduates as a supplement to their explorations in Alderman and Clemons Libraries.
Additional Information For more information, contact
Larry Sabato
Director of Undergraduate Advising
Department of Government and Foreign Affairs
240 Cabell Hall
Charlottesville, VA 22903
(804) 924-3604
Government and Foreign Affairs faculty
Senior staff members are University faculty who frequently teach courses in their respective fields. The Center employs both work-study students, who serve as office staff, and graduate research assistants, who gain firsthand experience in research and government by participating in Center projects. The Center's publications program makes readily available a wealth of data on Virginia to supplement students' coursework in political science, economics, history, and sociology. Besides its central offices in Charlottesville, the Center maintains a Southwest Virginia office in Wise County and a Richmond office.
Additional Information For more information, contact
Kenneth W. Thompson
Director of the Miller Center
2201 Old Ivy Road
Charlottesville, VA 22903
(804) 924-7236
GFAD 496 - (6) (Y)
Thesis for Distinguished Majors Program
Students must be previously admitted into the Department's
Distinguished Majors Program.
GFAP 227 - (3) (Y)
Public Opinion and Political Behavior
The nature of public opinion and its relationship to politics
and public policy.
GFAP 266 - (3) (Y)
Ideas, Institutions, and Public Policy
Examines and critically assesses the ideas, institutions, and
public policies that constitute the foundation and have influenced
the development of liberal democracy in the United States.
GFAP 321 - (3) (Y)
Political Parties and Group Politics
An introduction to the roles of parties, interest groups, public
opinion, and elections in democratic government.
GFAP 322 - (3) (Y)
President and Congress
The political bases, structures, and functions of Congress and
the institutionalized Presidency, and their interaction in political
leadership and policy making.
GFAP 331 - (3) (IR)
American Presidency
Prerequisite: Two courses in GFAP, or permission of instructor
An examination of the power, purposes, and problematics of the
Presidency as a role of national leadership in the American and
political constitutional system. While the emphasis is on the
modern presidency (1933-present), attention is given to the historical
development of the presidency.
GFAP 335 - (3) (Y)
American Congress
Prerequisite: Two courses in GFAP, or permission of instructor
Focuses on the contemporary organization and workings of the United
States Congress. Special attention is paid to elections, the committee
system, political parties, staff, and the law-making process.
The role of Congress in the national policy making system is also
treated.
GFAP 336 - (3) (Y)
Gender Politics and Public Policy
Prerequisite: One course in GFAP,
Women's Studies, or the equivalent
Examines the ways in which gender affects political participation
and the development of relevant public policies. Also examines
the suffrage movement, ERA, and other more contemporary issues.
GFAP 341 - (3) (Y)
State and Local Politics
Prerequisite: One course in GFAP or permission of instructor
Investigates the political dynamics of subnational political institutions,
parties, and elections. Issues considered may include state parties
and elections, intergovernmental relations and institutional powers,
representation and democracy in federal systems, and subnational
policy processes.
GFAP 344 - (3) (Y)
Urban Politics
Prerequisite: Any course in GFAP, GFCP, or
Economics
An analysis of the structure, politics, and problems of American
cities. The meaning and scope of "urban crisis" receive
extensive attention. The growing ties between the federal government
and cities, central city-suburban conflict, machine politics,
and welfare and housing policies are other topics given special
treatment.
GFAP 351 - (3) (Y)
Minority Group Politics
Prerequisite: Any course in GFAP or permission of instructor
Examination of the problems and politics of minority groups in
the United States. Both the theoretical and practical aspects
of minority group politics are treated, including their comparative
experience in the U.S.
GFAP 355 - (3) (Y)
Gender Politics
Prerequisite: Two social science courses or permission of the
instructor
Examines the legal and political status of women, and the politics
of changes in that status. How are gender identities forged, and
how do they affect law, public policy, political rhetoric, and
political movement? The course explores, more generally, the clash
between "difference" and "equality" in democratic
societies, using gender as a case-study.
GFAP 361 - (3) (S)
Introduction to Public Administration
Prerequisite: GFAP 101, GFCP 101 or permission of instructor
The role of public administration in contemporary government,
with emphasis upon administrative structure, control, and relations
with other branches of government.
GFAP 381 - (3) (Y)
Constitutional Interpretation: Separation of Powers and Federalism
Prerequisites: Two courses in GFAP or permission of instructor
The legislative, executive and judicial branches and the functional
and territorial distribution of powers as reflected by Supreme
Court decisions. The nature of the judicial process. (No CR/NC
enrollees.)
GFAP 382 - (3) (Y)
Constitutional Limitations: Civil Liberties and Civil Rights
Prerequisites: Two courses in GFAP or permission of instructor
Judicial construction and interpretation of civil rights and liberties
reflected by Supreme Court decisions. Line-drawing between rights
and obligations. (No CR/NC enrollees.)
GFAP 412 - (3) (IR)
Electoral Behavior and Political Participation
Prerequisite: GFAP 227
Seminar surveying current theories and research on electoral behavior,
including political participation, partisanship, voting behavior,
and the impact of electoral institutions.
GFAP 424 - (3) (S)
Seminar: Special Topics in American Politics
Prerequisite: One course in GFAP or permission of instructor
An intensive study of a selected issue in American government
or American political development.
GFAP 430 (3) (Y)
Political Analysis
Prerequisite: One course in GFAP or permission of instructor
Seminar examining basic issues in the design, execution, analysis
and interpretation of political research. Familiarizes students
with practical tools, such as quantitative analysis and computing
skills, which enable them to carry out an original research project.
GFAP 434 - (3) (IR)
American Political Leadership
Prerequisite: GFAP 101 or permission of instructor
Theory and practice of political leadership at the national level
of government with comparisons to state, local, and foreign government.
Includes leadership in different institutional and policy settings,
techniques of leadership, types of leaders, bargaining among leaders,
experience of specific leaders, and conditions and opportunities
of leadership.
GFAP 436 - (3) (Y)
Campaigns and Elections
Prerequisite: Enrollment limited; permission of instructor required
Concentrates on a review and analysis of the techniques and technologies
of modern American election campaigns.
GFAP 438 - (3) (Y)
The Politics of the Policy Process
Prerequisite: GFAP 101 or permission of instructor
Focuses on cross-institutional and inter-level (federal/state/local)
public policy processes. Primary emphasis is on domestic policy
issues -- how they are defined and treated in government by executive
and legislative units. Interest group involvement is emphasized.
GFAP 471 - (3) (Y)
Values, Resources, and Public Policy
Prerequisite: Any course in GFAP, Economics, or Philosophy, or
permission of instructor
Seminar examining the political, economic, and ethical content
of enduring domestic policy issues.
GFAP 483 - (3) (Y)
First Amendment
Prerequisite: GFAP 382 or fourth-year undergraduate government
major
A seminar examining the constitutional law of the first amendment
to the Constitution of the United States from the founding to
the present. Supreme Court decisions and scholarly works are considered
and analyzed.
GFAP 484 - (3) (S)
Race and Constitution
Prerequisite: GFAP 381 or 382 or permission of instructor
Seminar examining the constitutional law of racial discrimination
in the United States from the founding to the present. Supreme
Court decisions and congressional civil rights acts considered.
(May not be taken on credit/no credit basis.)
GFAP 498 - (3) (S)
Senior Thesis
Prerequisite: Three courses in American politics and permission
of instructor
Allows especially motivated students to receive credit for supervised
work on a thesis in the area of American politics.
GFAP 526 - (3) (IR)
Special Topics in Public Policy or Public Administration
Prerequisite: Any GFA course or permission of instructor
An intensive analysis of selected issues in public policy or public
administration.
GFAP 543 - (3) (Y)
Intergovernmental Relations
Prerequisite: Six credits of American Government or fourth-year
standing
The contemporary relations of national, state, and local governments;
urban and metropolitan growth problems and their implications
for public policy and administration in relation to the federal
system.
GFAP 545 - (3) (Y)
Virginia Government and Politics
Prerequisite: Enrollment limited; prior permission of instructor
required
Virginia government at the state, county, municipal, and special
district levels. Considers legislative, executive, judicial organization,
intergovernmental relations, and structural and political arrangements
in the existing and emerging metropolitan areas.
GFAP 562 - (3) (IR)
Organization Theory and Administrative Behavior
Prerequisite: Any GFA course or permission of instructor
Principles of organization from scientific management theory through
contemporary theorists. Relationship of workers and management
to the organization with primary emphasis on government.
GFAP 592 - (3) (Y)
Judicial Policymaking
Prerequisite: Nine credits in American Government and permission
of instructor
Examines the structure and process of judicial policymaking, focusing
on agenda-setting, deciding cases and opinion writing, implementation,
compliance and impact. Particular attention is given to the United
States Supreme Court and its relationship to lower federal and
state courts and the political environment.
GFAP 594 - (3) (Y)
Administrative Law and Public Policy
Prerequisite: Any GFA course or permission of instructor
Examines the law-politics exchange in the American system of administrative
law.
GFAP 595 - (3) (S)
Selected Problems in American Politics
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor
Independent study under faculty supervision, for students who
are preparing for intensive research on a specific topic.
GFCP 201 (3) (Y)
The Politics of Advanced Industrialized Countries
A survey of politics in industrialized societies including Japan,
North America, and Western Europe. Focus is on the rise of social
movements in response to industrial and social change, the changing
bases of political parties and democratic rule, attempts to manage
increasingly international economies, and prospects for political
cooperation and integration.
GFCP - 212 - (3) (Y)
The Politics of Developing Areas
A survey of patterns of government and politics in non-western
political systems in which political elites, sources of political
power, national integration, economic development, foreign penetration,
and other topics are discussed.
GFCP 242 (3) (Y)
Politics of Modernity
An introductory survey of the key analytical concepts used by
Karl Marx, Max Weber, and Emile Durkeim in their analysis of how
the development of modern society has shaped the nature of modern
politics.
GFCP 311 - (3) (Y)
The Politics of Western Europe
Prerequiste: Some background in comparative politics and/or history
of Europe
A survey of recent developments in selected political systems
of Western Europe, as well as the European Union, with special
emphasis placed on the impact of political culture on governmental
institutions and political processes.
CFCP 313 - (3) (Y)
Political Economy of Development
Prerequisite: GFIR 205 or permission of instructor
Examines the political prerequisites (and impediments) to economic
development, focusing on agricultural exporters in the 19th century
and manufactured goods exporters in the 20th century. Draws on
empirical material from North and South American, Europe, Asia
and Africa.
GFCP 321 - (3) (Y)
Russian Politics
Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or
history of Russia
Analysis of the political system of the former USSR and Russia
from 1917 to the present. Focus is on evolution of the Soviet
state, modernization and social change, efforts to reform the
system, the collapse of the USSR, as well as the economic and
political transformation taking place in the newly independent
states.
GFCP 341 - (3) (Y)
Politics of the Middle East and North Africa
Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or history
of the Middle East
Introduction to contemporary political systems of the region stretching
from Morocco to Iran.
GFCP 351 - (3) (Y)
Chinese Politics
Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or
the history of China
A general introduction to Chinese politics in its societal context.
The course conveys a concrete appreciation of China's society and how it interacts with the political system. China's
changing role in Asia and the world is covered.
GFCP 363 - (3) (Y)
Politics in India and Pakistan
Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or
study of history and society in South Asia
This survey of political development in India and Pakistan
examines the process of nation-building, the causes of democratization
and authoritarian rule, the development of ethnic and religious
conflict, environmental politics, the political impact of cultural
globalization, and gender-related political issues.
GFCP 401 - (3) (IR)
Theories of Comparative Politics
Prerequisite: One course in GFCP or permission of instructor
Critical examination and analysis of the basic approaches to the
study of political systems.
GFCP 413 - (3) (IR)
Political Economy of Advanced Industrial Economies
Prerequisite: GFIR 205 or permission of instructor
Seminar examining how the U. S., Germany, and Japan politically
organize their major industries, and the economic consequences
of this regulation. It compares financial systems, unionization
and firms' internal organization, looking at relations between
firms and labor, labor and the state, and firms and the state.
GFCP 414 - (3) (IR)
Democracy and Dictatorship
Prerequistie: One course in GFCP or permission of instructor
This seminar surveys and critically evaluates theories of origins
of democratic and authoritarian governments, and the causes of
subsequent transitions to, and away from, democratic regimes.
GFCP 415 - (3) (Y)
Comparative Public Policy
A seminar focused on the question of why policies in areas like
social welfare, education, and trade differ across time and across
countries in the advanced industrialized nations.
GFCP 424 - (3) (S)
Seminar: Topics in Comparative Politics
Prerequisite: One course in GFCP or permission of instructor
An intensive analysis of selected issues and concepts in comparative
government.
GFCP 498 - (3) (S)
Senior Thesis
Prerequisite: Three courses in GFCP and permission of instructor
Allows especially motivated students to receive credit for supervised
work on a thesis in the area of comparative politics.
GFCP 501 - (3) (IR)
Comparative Political Systems of Northern Europe
Prerequisite: GFCP 201, 311 or permission of instructor
A comprehensive survey of selected political systems of Northern
Europe: such as the British Isles, the Low Countries, Germany,
or Scandinavia.
GFCP 502 - (3) (IR)
Comparative Political Systems of Southern Europe
Prerequisite: GFCP 201, 311
or permission of instructor
A comprehensive survey of selected political systems in Southern
Europe: such as France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.
GFCP 506 - (3) (Y)
Political Development and Developmental Politics
Prerequisite: One course in GFCP or permission
of instructor
Critical examination and analysis of the basic theories of political
development. Emphasis is on development of modern nation state
in Europe and the Developing World from 1400-2000.
GFCP 507 - (3) (Y)
Rational Choice in Comparative Politics
Prerequisite: Two courses in GFCP and/or economics, or permission
of instructor
An introduction to rational choice theory, one of the most important
recent approaches to studying politics. The course addresses the
challenge of applying both classic and newer theories to democratic
transitions and constitutions, elections and voting, coalitions,
social movements, and political reform.
GFCP 511 - (3) (Y)
Government and Politics of Western Europe
Prerequisite: Graduate status or permission of instructor
An in depth analysis of the institutional structures and policy
processes of selected political systems in Europe today. Special
attention is devoted to legislatures, political executives, administrative
bureaucracies and their interrelationships as they affect policymaking
and policy implementation.
GFCP 521 (3) (Y)
Soviet and Post-Soviet Politics
Prerequisite: Graduate status or permission of instructor
The political institutions and processes in the former Soviet
Union and its successor states from 1917 to the present. Focus
is on modernization, social change, changing structures and institutions,
political mobilization, political cultures, nationality issues,
and the problems of reform, system transformation and democratization.
GFCP 523 - (3) (Y)
Politics of Eastern Europe
Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or
history of Eastern Europe
Deals with the development of political institutions in Eastern
Europe since 1989. Emphasis is on comparative analysis of the
differing paths of development taken by the East Europe regimes.
Several weeks are devoted to the history of the region. This is
followed by an examination of the transitions, the development
of political parties, economic reforms, and institutional development.
The final two weeks are devoted to security issues, including
the Yugoslav conflict and the expansion of Western security arrangements
into Eastern Europe.
GFCP 525 - (3) (Y)
Politics of Economic Reform
Prerequisite: Previous course in GFCP,
GFIR, or Economics is
recommended
A wave of economic change has swept across countries from Argentina
to Zimbabwe over the last 15 years. The unfolding of these changes
has been structured and in turn has shaped the politics of the
countries in which they have occurred. This course aims to formulate
an analytical framework for understanding the politics of economic
reform. Readings cover cases in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and
Eastern Europe.
GFCP 531 - (3) (IR)
Politics of Latin America
Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or
history of Latin America
Constitutional, political, and administrative system of the major
countries of Latin America. The political implications of economic
development and social reform; nationalist theories of socio-political
development.
GFCP 533 - (3) (IR)
Political Parties and Movements in Latin America
Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or
history of Latin America
Origins, activities, and contemporary position of the major political
parties and movements in Latin America and Spain; their relationship
to economic development, social reform, and the conduct of government
in the principal Latin American states.
GFCP 536 - (3) (IR)
Role of the Military in Latin America
Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or
history of Latin America
The impact of the military on government and society, and the
conditions affecting military intervention against constitutional
governments and the circumstances in which military intervention
occurs and is likely to occur in Latin America and Spain.
GFCP 541 - (3) (Y)
Islam and Democracy in the Middle East
Prerequisite: GFCP 341 or equivalent
Prospects for democratic transitions in Middle Eastern states,
with emphasis on the role of Islamic political movements.
GFCP 551 - (3) (Y)
Politics of China
Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or
history of China
The structure and process of the Chinese political system with
special attention to political culture, socio-economic development
and political socialization.
GFCP 553 - (3) (Y)
Politics of Japan
Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or
history of Japan
Survey of contemporary Japanese society and political behavior
including such topics as political culture, interest groups, political
parties, parliamentary democracy, decision-making, and public
policy.
GFCP 563 - (3) (E)
Politics of Vietnam
Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or history
of Asia
A comprehensive introduction to Vietnamesepolitics, including
its domestic political development and its international relations.
Interest focuses on contemporary Vietnam, but the historical development
of Vietnamese politics is also considered.
GFCP 567 - (3) (IR)
Comparative Science and Technology Policy
Prerequisite: Graduate status or permission of instructor
An examination of the increasingly vital role played by science
and technology policy in promoting economic and social welfare.
Special attention is paid to government efforts to enhance domestic
scientific and technological capabilities. Comparison of the development
of the computer industry in the United States, Japan, South Korea,
Brazil and India is used to explore theoretical issues.
GFCP 581 - (3) (Y)
Politics of Sub-Saharan Africa
Prerequisite: Some background in comparative politics and/or
history of Africa
A survey of the principal topics in the study of government and
politics of sub-Saharan Africa. This includes: the colonial experience
and the rise of African nationalism; the transition to independence;
the rise and fall of African one-party states; the role of the
military in African politics; the politics of ethnicity, nation-building
and state-building; patromonialism and patron-client relations;
development problems faced by African regimes, including relations
with external actors; the political future of Southern Africa.
Not open to students who had GFCP 381.
GFCP 583 - (3) (Y)
Politics of South Africa
Prerequisite: GFCP 212, GFCP 581 or permission of instructor
Concentrates on the socio-political structures of white supremacy
and the political transition to majority rule. Special attention
is devoted to the confrontation between African and Afrikaaner
nationalisms, the consequences of economic growth on the patterns
of racial stratification, and the complicated process contributing
to the creation of the multi-racial democratic society.
GFCP 595 - (3) (S)
Selected Problems in Comparative Politics
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor
Independent study, under faculty supervision, for students who
are preparing for intensive research on a specific topic.
GFIR 201 - (3) (Y)
Evolution of International Relations
Considers the factors that determine continuity and change in
the international system. Emphasizes periods of conflict and change,
with case studies ranging from the Peloponnesian War to the contemporary
post-Cold War system.
GFIR 202 - (3) (Y)
Foreign Policies of the Powers
A comparative analysis of the content and definition of foreign
policies of select states in historical and contemporary periods.
GFIR 205 - (3) (Y)
Introduction to Political Economy
An introduction to core concepts in political economy, including
the institutional bases for states and markets, and the way these
interact through the exercise of exit, voice, and collective action.
Empirical material is drawn from the last five centuries.
GFIR 304 - (3) (O)
International Politics
Prerequisite: One course in GFIR or permission of instructor
Comparative analysis of major periods in international politics,
with emphasis upon the definitive traits of the contemporary era.
GFIR 305 - (3) (Y)
Philosophy of International Relations
Prerequisite: GFIR 101 or 201
or permission of instructor
The philosophical foundations of the study of international relations
as formulated by classical and contemporary thinkers.
GFIR 306 - (3) (Y)
Military Force in International Relations
Prerequisite: One course in GFIR or permission of instructor
Examines the threat and use of military force in international
relations. Topics include deterrence theory and recent critiques,
ethical and international legal considerations, domestic constraints,
and the postwar U.S. and Soviet experiences with the use of force.
GFIR 308 - (3) (Y)
International Politics in the Nuclear Age
Prerequisite: One course in GFIR or permission of instructor
Considers the impact of nuclear weapons on the relations among
states.
GFIR 311 - (3) (Y)
International Law: Principles and Politics
Prerequisite: One course in GFIR or permission of instructor
Addresses the following questions: What are "international
legal rules?" How do they originate? How do they evolve over
time? Of what political consequence are they? And, what is their
relationship to morality? Special attention is given to the international
legal rules governing territoriality, nationality, human rights,
and the recourse to armed force.
GFIR 321 - (3) (Y)
International Organizations
Prerequisite: One course in GFIR or permission of instructor
An introduction to the nature, functions, and significance of
international organizations in international relations. Special
attention is given to the United Nations.
GFIR 338 - (3) (Y)
Theories of International Political Economy
Prerequisite: GFIR 205 or permission of instructor
Examines international conflict and cooperation over economic
issues, using a variety of theoretical perspectives. A secondary
concern is the domestic sources of foreign economic policy and
the relationship between economic and military security. Issues
are drawn from the 19th and 20th centuries.
GFIR 340 - (3) (Y)
Foreign Policy of the United States
Prerequisite: Some background in the field of international relations
or in U.S. history
An analysis of major themes in American foreign policy, emphasizing
security issues, from World War I through the Nixon adminstration.
GFIR 341 - (3) (Y)
Contemporary U.S. Foreign Policy
Prerequisite: GFIR 340 strongly recommended, but open to students
with at least some background in the field of international relations
or in U.S. history
An analysis of contemporary American Foreign Policy, from the
Carter administration to the present. Issues include security
policies, the end of the Cold War, and America's role in the post-Cold
War period.
GFIR 351 - (3) (Y)
Western Europe in World Affairs
Prerequisite: Some background in the field of international relations
or in the history of Western Europe
The content and formulation of the foreign policies of the major
Western European countries in the twentieth century.
GFIR 355 - (3) (Y)
Russia/USSR in World Affairs
Prerequisite: Some background in the field of international relations
or in the history of Russia
A survey of the international relations of the Russian state,
looking at Imperial legacies, the Soviet era from 1917-85, the
Gorbachev era, and post-Soviet problems of Russian foreign policy.
GFIR 356 - (3) (Y)
Russian-American Relations
Prerequisite: GFIR 355 or 340 offer best background, but open
to students with at least some background in the field of international
relations or in the history of Russia
An analysis of Soviet-U.S. and Russian-U.S. relations, with a
focus on the post-1945 period. Cold War and contemporary issues
are examined.
GFIR 360 - (3) (Y)
Political Economy of Asia
An introduction to the political economy of East Asia, Southeast
Asia, and South Asia at three levels: first, the role played
by Asia in the global political economy, and vice-versa; second,
the regional interactions and patterns within Asia; and third,
the national political economies of the region.
GFIR 365 - (3) (Y)
International Relations of the Middle East
Prerequisite: Some background in the field of international relations
or in the history of the Middle East
Concentrates on the emergence of the contemporary inter-state
system in the Middle East; the important role played by outside
powers, especially the United States; the effect of the Cold War
on the region; the persistent conflict between Israel and its
Arab neighbors and the efforts to reach peace; and the difficulty
of constructing a stable order in the Persian Gulf.
GFIR 366 - (3) (Y)
Ideas, Institutions, and Public Policy
Alexis de Tocqueville's Democracy in America serves as the
primary text for an examination and critical analysis of the ideas,
institutions, and public policy decisions that constitute the
foundation and have influenced the development of liberal democracy
in the United States.
GFIR 375 - (3) (IR)
South Asia in World Affairs
Prerequisite: Some background in the field of international relations
or in the history of South Asia
International relations of India; factors that condition its foreign
policy. Relation between internal need for unity, stability and
development, and foreign policy. India as a regional power and
as a global leader of nonalignment.
GFIR 415 - (3) (Y)
Economics and National Security
Prerequisite: One course in international relations, history
or economics
The seminar explores the connections between economics and national
security from three angles. First, does economic interdependence
between nation-states foster a peaceful world, as liberals argue,
or does it increase the likelihood of war, as realists contend?
Second, what are the economic causes of the rise and decline of
great powers? Third, what are the economic roots of great power
imperialism against smaller states?
GFIR 421 - (3) (Y)
World Order
Prerequisite: Two courses in GFIR or permission of instructor
Seminar analyzing the problem of world order and examining various
theoretical approaches to its solutions.
GFIR 424 - (3) (S)
Seminar: Topics in International Relations
Prerequisite: One course in GFIR or permission of instructor
An intensive analysis of selected issues and concepts in international
relations.
GFIR 438 - (3) (Y)
America in a World Economy
Prerequisite: GFIR 205 or permission of instructor
Seminar focusing on politics of the international trade and monetary
systems, with special emphasis on third world industrialization,
trade conflicts between the U.S. and Japan, and the global debt
crisis.
GFIR 498 - (3) (S)
Senior Thesis
Prerequisite: Three courses in GFIR and permission of instructor
Designed to allow especially motivated students to receive credit
for supervised work on a thesis in the area of international relations.
GFIR 505 - (3) (Y)
Ethics and International Relations
Is ethical action in international affairs possible, or does the
absence of global moral concensus and central world government
doom states and citizens to the amoral pursuit of clashing national
interests? The course considers contrasting arguments by philosophers
and social thinkers (e.g., Thucydides, Machiavelli, Kant, and Weber)
as well as specific issues in contemporary international politics:
intervention and the use of force, human rights, alternatives
to the state system, and the moral responsibilities of leaders
and citizens.
GFIR 507 - (3) (Y)
Norms and Value Systems in International Relations
Prerequisite: Two courses in GFIR or permission of instructor
Analyzes the formation, operation, and effect of norms, values,
and "regimes" in international relations. Considers
topics such as human rights, the role of religion and ideology,
and the relationship of norms to international institutions.
GFIR 508 - (3) (IR)
American National Security Policy
Prerequisite: Two courses in GFIR or permission of instructor
An analysis of the changing definitions of national security by
U.S. administrations from World War II to the present.
GFIR 522 - (3) (IR)
Political Conflict Management in
International Organizations
Prerequisite: GFIR 321 or 421 or permission of instructor
The principles and methods involved in the management of political
conflicts by international organizations. Case studies of peaceful
settlement, peacekeeping operations, and sanctions. Special attention
is given to the political role of the Secretary General and the
problems of organizing international sanctions.
GFIR 538 - (3) (IR)
International Political Economy
Prerequisite: GFIR 205 or permission of instructor
An intensive analysis of concepts and selected issues, historical
and contemporary, to be found in the interfacing of politics and
economics in international relations.
GFIR 542 - (3) (Y)
Patterns and Processes of United States
Foreign Policy
Prerequisite: GFIR 340 and 341 are strongly recommended, but open
to students with at least some background in American government
or international relations
The politics of the American foreign policy process as illustrated
through comparative analysis of case studies.
GFIR 551 - (3) (IR)
Western Europe in World Affairs
Prerequisite: Two courses in GFIR or permission of instructor
The changing role of Western Europe in twentieth century international
relations; the loss of Europe's world hegemony and the shifts
of power among the states of Western Europe.
GFIR 555 - (3) (Y)
Russian/Soviet Foreign Policy
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor
A thematic analysis of Soviet and Post-Soviet Russian foreign
policy.
GFIR 562 - (3) (Y)
Latin America in World Affairs
Prerequisite: Some background in the field of international relations
and/or the history of Latin America
Relations of Latin-American states with each other, the United
States, Western Europe, and other states. Inter-American security,
Latin American relations with the Soviet Union and Cuba, and the
United States security doctrine.
GFIR 571 - (3) (Y)
China in World Affairs
Prerequisite: Some background in the field of international relations
and/or the history of China
International relations of China; conditioning historical, political,
economic, and social forces. Aims, strategy, and tactics of China's
foreign policy.
GFIR 572 - (3) (Y)
Japan in World Affairs
Prerequisite: Some background in the field of international relations
and/or the history of Japan
The international relations of Japan; domestic and foreign factors
and forces that condition its foreign policies. Political, economic,
military, and social problems resulting from contacts with China,
the Soviet Union, and the Western powers.
GFIR 582 - (3) (IR)
Africa and the World
Prerequisite: Some background in the field of international relations
and/or the history of Africa
Overview of the international politics of sub-Saharan Africa,
including inter-African relations as well as Africa's relations
with the major powers, and the international dimensions of the
Southern African situation. Alternative policy options open to
African states are explored. Attention to a number of case studies
which illustrate the policy alternatives.
GFIR 595 - (3) (S)
Selected Problems in International Relations
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor
Independent study, under faculty supervision, for students who
are preparing for intensive research on a specific topic.
GFPT 301 - (3) (Y)
Ancient and Medieval Political Theory
The development of political theory from Greek antiquity through
the Medieval period.
GFPT 302 - (3) (Y)
Modern Political Thought
The development of political theory from the Renaissance through
the nineteenth century.
GFPT 303 - (3) (Y)
Contemporary Political Thought
Prerequisite: One course in GFPT or permission of
instructor
The course of political theory from the late 19th century through
the present. This includes the major critical perspectives on
modern politics and culture (existentialism, feminism, post-modernism,
"critical theory") and explores the problems that have
preoccupied political theory in this period (alienation, language,
individualism and discrimination).
GFPT 305 - (3) (Y)
Survey of American Political Theory
A survey of the development of the American tradition of free
government with emphasis upon the major contributors and their
critics.
GFPT 403 - (3) (Y)
Democracy and Its Critics
Prerequisite: One course in GFPT or permission of
instructor
Seminar surveying of the major contributors to democratic theory,
of the central problems that any democratic theory has to answer,
and of the criticisms leveled at the various philosophical attempts
to give a firm ground for democratic practices.
GFPT 424 - (3) (Y)
Seminar: Topics in Political Theory
Prerequisite: One course in GFPT or permission of
instructor
Investigation of a special problem of political theory such as
political corruption, religion and politics, science and politics,
or the nature of justice.
GFPT 480 - (3) (Y)
Political Economy
Prerequisite: Previous coursework in the Department of GFA, economics,
or philosophy
Seminar focusing on historical and contemporary theorists who
relate politics and economics.
GFPT 498 - (3) (S)
Senior Thesis
Prerequisite: Three courses in GFPT and permission
of instructor
Designed to allow especially motivated students to receive credit
for supervised work on a thesis in the area of political theory.
GFPT 501 - (3) (Y)
Nature of Political Inquiry
Prerequisite: Only for undergraduates with permission of instructor
Important conceptual issues encountered in the scientific study
of politics.
GFPT 502 - (3) (Y)
Basic Problems of Political Philosophy
Prerequisite: GFPT 101 or GFPT 302 or permission of instructor
Examination of the character of political philosophy and its justification
under contemporary circumstances.
GFPT 503 - (3) (Y)
Marxist Theories
Prerequisite: GFPT 101 or GFPT 302 or permission of instructor
The basic political, sociological and philosophical ideas advanced
by Marx and Engels, and their historical backgrounds; the later
developments and varieties of Marxist thought in the twentieth
century, the principal critics, and chief debates.
GFPT 505 - (3) (Y)
Liberal Theories
Prerequisite: GFPT 101 or GFPT 302 or permission of instructor
The political and philosophical ideas of the thinkers who contributed
to the emergence of the modern liberal state.
GFPT 506 - (3) (Y)
Plato and Aristotle
Prerequisite: GFPT 101 or 301
The political and philosophical ideas of the founders of the tradition
of political philosophy.
GFPT 515 - (3) (Y)
Continental Political Thought
Prerequisite: One course in GFPT or permission of
instructor
A survey of the main currents of Continental political thought
from the eighteenth century through the present.
GFPT 595 - (3) (S)
Selected Problems in Theory and Method
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor
Independent study, under faculty supervision, for students who
are preparing for intensive research on a specific topic.