Introduction to Political Science

Instructor: John Strangelove

Email: hobbes@roussea.edu
Class Location: [Your Classroom Location]
Class Time: [Your Class Time]

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts and practices in political science, with a particular focus on international relations and comparative politics. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and interactive simulations using Statecraft International Relations Lite and Statecraft Gov Lite, students will explore key political theories, institutions, processes, and issues that shape our world.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will:

• Understand the basic principles and concepts of political science.
• Analyze the role and functions of governments and international organizations.
• Evaluate different political systems and their impacts on society.
• Apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios through simulations.
• Develop critical thinking and analytical skills in the context of political science.

Required Texts and Materials

• Statecraft International Relations Lite (Simulation Package)
• Statecraft Gov Lite (Simulation Package)
• [Any Required Textbooks]
• Supplemental readings provided throughout the course

Grading Criteria

• Participation and Attendance: 15%
• Simulation Performance and Debriefing: 25%
• Midterm Exam: 20%
• Research Paper/Project: 20%
• Final Exam: 20%

Course Schedule

Week 1: Introduction to Political Science

• Course overview and expectations
• Introduction to key concepts: politics, power, and authority
• Reading: Chapter 1 from [Your Textbook]

Week 2: Political Theories and Ideologies

• Classical and contemporary political theories
• Major political ideologies: liberalism, conservatism, socialism, etc.
• Reading: Chapter 2 from [Your Textbook]

Week 3: Comparative Politics

• Different types of political systems: democracies, autocracies, and hybrid regimes
• Case studies of various countries
• Reading: Chapter 3 from [Your Textbook]

Week 4: Introduction to Statecraft Simulations

• Overview of Statecraft International Relations Lite and Statecraft Gov Lite
• Setting up and familiarizing with the simulation platforms
• Reading: Simulation manuals and guides

Week 5: The Structure of Government

• The functions and organization of governments
• Federal vs. unitary systems
• Reading: Chapter 4 from [Your Textbook]

Week 6: Political Institutions and Public Policy

• The role of political institutions: legislatures, executives, and judiciaries
• Policy-making processes
• Reading: Chapter 5 from [Your Textbook]

Week 7: International Relations Theories

• Realism, liberalism, constructivism, and other IR theories
• Applying theories to historical and contemporary events
• Reading: Chapter 6 from [Your Textbook]

Week 8: Launching Statecraft International Relations Lite

• Introduction and objectives for the simulation
• Simulation setup and initial strategies
• Assignment: Statecraft IR Lite Turn 0

Week 9: Global Issues and International Organizations

• Globalization, international trade, and economic policies
• The role of international organizations: UN, NATO, WTO, etc.
• Assignment: Statecraft IR Lite Turn 1
• Reading: Chapter 7 from [Your Textbook]

Week 10: Simulation Debrief and Analysis

• Debriefing the Statecraft International Relations Lite simulation
• Analyzing outcomes and strategies
• Connecting simulation experiences to theoretical concepts
• Assignment: Statecraft IR Lite Turn 2

Week 11: Domestic Politics and Governance

• Political culture and socialization
• Political participation and elections
• Assignment: Statecraft IR Lite Turn 3
• Reading: Chapter 8 from [Your Textbook]

Week 12: Launching Statecraft Gov Lite

• Introduction and objectives for the simulation
• Simulation setup and initial strategies
• Assignment: Statecraft Gov Lite Turn 0

Week 13: Political Economy and Development

• The relationship between politics and economics
• Development theories and policies
• Assignment: Statecraft Gov Lite Turn 1
• Reading: Chapter 9 from [Your Textbook]

Week 14: Simulation Debrief and Analysis

• Debriefing the Statecraft Gov Lite simulation
• Analyzing outcomes and strategies
• Connecting simulation experiences to theoretical concepts
• Assignment: Statecraft Gov Lite Turn 2

Week 15: Research Paper/Project Presentations

• Presentation of research papers/projects
• Peer feedback and discussions
• Assignment: Statecraft Gov Lite Turn 3

Week 16: Review and Final Exam

• Course review and Q&A session
• Final exam preparation
• Final Exam

Policies and Expectations

• Attendance and Participation: Regular attendance and active participation are crucial for success in this course.
• Academic Integrity: Students are expected to adhere to academic integrity policies. Plagiarism and cheating will not be tolerated.
• Late Assignments: Assignments submitted after the deadline will incur a penalty unless prior arrangements are made.
• Communication: Students should regularly check their email and the course website for updates and announcements.