OBJECTIVE

The main objective of this course will be to help the student better understand the political world. The course attempts to link the central analytic concepts of political science that have emerged over decades of research to the realities of the political world in the early twenty-first century. Using contemporary and some historical evidence, the book emphasizes empirical research that illuminates the processes and structures of politics. The level of analysis ranges from the individual’s political beliefs and actions through the politics of groups and states to the dynamics of the international system. This course asks the student to assess whether it is possible and useful to develop generalizations about political phenomena. It combines attention to systematic descriptive analysis—the what questions—with efforts to explain underlying patterns—the why and how questions. And students are continually reminded that they must consider the important normative questions that are embedded in most issues about politics. Many topics are also presented in a manner that encourages the student to think like a political scientist—to structure questions and assess evidence in order to make inferences.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Attendance: (100 points)
Attendance is mandatory and will count as part of grade. You will start with 100 attendance points as a part of your total points for the course, each unexcused absence will subtract 5 points from your total toward the calculation of your final grade.

Exams: (200 points)
There will be four (4) exams each worth 50 points based on what we have read, discussed and covered in class

Required Course Book:
Danzinger, James N., Understanding the Political World: A Comparative Introduction to Political Science (Available in the UH Manoa bookstore)

Grading:
Grading works based on points you earn from your exams and attendance and breaks down as follows. There is no curve, and you do not compete with each other head on.

A range = 300 – 260pts
B range = 259 – 220
C range = 219 – 180
D range = 179 – 140
F = 139 and below

COURSE SCHEDULE

*The Fourth Exam will be given during scheduled time of exam week and cover chaptersÕ 13-15, Sai article and classroom notes.