The Political Science Department announces two new courses for Spring 2018.
POLS 4415/5415: Religion and Global Politics
Dr. Brandon Kendhammer
Description: This course examines the impact of religious values, beliefs, and organized faith groups on global politics. It considers how religious laypeople and leaders impact political processes in domestic politics and international relations, as well as how faith communities compete and coexist in the political sphere. Its approach is both contemporary and historical, as well as comparative. Cases might include the impact of religion on global and national law, the role of religious activists in governmental and non-governmental organizations, the relationship between individual and collective religious values and national political outcomes, and the impact of secularism on politics. The focus is global, although U.S. cases may be considered in comparative perspective. The course is taught by Dr. Brandon Kendhammer, Associate Professor of Political Science. Meeting times are Tuesday/Thursday 3:05 to 4:25 p.m.
POLS 4650/5650: Global Media Politics
Description: This course studies mediated communication in global politics, including both the impact of mass media on the foreign policies of states and the more recent use of social media by state and non-state actors. Readings and discussions address the role of mediated communication in public opinion, political mobilization, citizenship, identity, global justice, and democratic deliberation. The course uses historical and contemporary case studies germane to the study of international politics, including major wars, revolutionary movements, breaches of state secrecy and cybersecurity, Internet freedom, and efforts to promote global political dialogue. Students consider both tendencies of mediated communication to sow enmity and conflict and opposing trends toward universal connectivity and transnational citizenship. The course is taught by Dr. Andrew Ross, Associate Professor of Political Science. Meeting times are Wednesday from 3:05 to 5:50 p.m.
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