Introduction to Politics

Political science is concerned with how power is assembled, how and why political decisions are made, and the conditions of politics and government in different types of regimes. This course introduces students to major theories and themes and concepts in political science. The purpose of the course is to provide students with an introductory overview of important perspectives on political power and its sources, political systems and governance, democratic principles and institutions, as well as the sources of conflict and cooperation in domestic and international affairs. This course satisfies the Core Curriculum requirement in Social Sciences.

St. Mary’s College of Maryland reserves the right to provide some or all of the course content through alternative methods of course delivery, including remote methods of delivery, and it reserves the right to change the method of delivery at any time before or during the academic term, in the event of a health or safety emergency or similar situation when it determines, in its sole discretion, that such change is necessary and in the best interests of the College and the campus community.