This course serves as an introduction to the basic institutions, actors, and processes of the U.S. political system. Particular attention is paid to the historical development of U.S. politics, but a focus on contemporary issues and problems is also central. Students taking this course should emerge with a clear understanding of the basic features of the U.S. political system, a sense of how that system has changed since its inception, and a developed critical lens through which the problems and issues central to U.S. politics today can be viewed. As such, students completing this course should be well prepared for further study of U.S. politics, but also be more knowledgeable in order to get involved on their own as political actors.
Science and technology play a tremendous role in shaping modern society, yet for many they are largely unexamined forces. Who decides what should be studied? Who decides what a “fact” is and what isn’t? How are new technologies developed? What impact do they have on our lives? This course is designed so that you can apply new concepts to emerging issues and practice critical thinking in analyzing the impact of techno-science on society. By the end of the term you should have a good understanding of several theories and approaches explaining the social production of science and technology, understand changes over time in the way people think about science and technology, be able to communicate with others about current issues.
This course introduces undergraduate students to the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in shaping public policy decisions, programs, and institutions. Through a policy-oriented lens, students will explore how AI influences agenda setting, policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation across key domains such as criminal justice, healthcare, social welfare, and urban governance. Emphasis will be placed on public sector use cases, equity implications, and regulatory challenges. Students will engage with learning materials to critically assess opportunities and risks associated with algorithmic governance, automated decision-making, and digital surveillance in democratic institutions.