PS 271 - Introduction to Political Behavior
Course Description:
The study of behavior in a political context; the analysis of basic behavioral
concepts used in political science such as political roles, group behavior,
belief systems, personality, power and decision-making.
Prerequisites/Co-requisites: PS
101 - American Government (recommended, not required)
Course Objectives:
The student should be able to
-
show familiarity with the everyday workings of the American political system.
-
analyze why and how people behave politically.
-
explain how a presidential campaign is run.
-
design and conduct a public opinion survey.
-
become involved in politics as a voter, worker, or a candidate for public
office.
-
form a habit of keeping up with current events.
Course Outline:
I. Introduction
II. Studying the American Electorate
III. Partisanship
IV. The Decline in Political Participation
V. Political Trust
VI. Incumbency & Congress
VII. The Meaning of Change in American Electoral Behavior
VIII. Research Methods
IX. Plunkitt of Tammany Hall Book
X. How to Run For Public Office
Sample Writing Assignment:
Anyone failing to go to Frankfort to the Legislature must write a paper
of at least five typed (double spaced) pages on the Kentucky State Legislature.
Footnotes and a bibliography from at least five printed sources must be
used, and they must be in correct format according to an acceptable standard.
Special emphasis must be placed on the issues for the special session.
Posted May 1996; revised August 25, 1998; June 18, 2003
http://www.bluegrass.kctcs.edu/LCC/HIS/271