GOVT314 - Public Opinion and Foreign Policy

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Academic Year 2003/2004

Public Opinion and Foreign Policy
GOVT 314 FA

The relationship between leaders and the public remains a core concern of democratic theorists and political observers. This course examines the nature of public views on foreign policy, the ability of the public to formulate reasoned and interconnected perspectives on the issues of the day, and the public's influence on foreign policy decisions. The main focus is on the United States, although comparative examples are included. The role of the media and international events in shaping public perspectives and public attitudes toward important issues such as internationalism and isolationism, the use of force, and economic issues will be considered. Finally, the public's influence will be examined across a range of specific decisions.

This course provides an intensive examination of a very specific area of research. As such, strong interest in learning about public opinion and foreign policy is recommended.

MAJOR READINGS

Richard Sobel, THE IMPACT OF PUBLIC OPINION ON U.S. FOREIGN POLICY SINCE VIETNAM, 2001
Douglas Foyle, COUNTING THE PUBLIC IN, 1999
Warren Strobel, LATE-BREAKING FOREIGN POLICY, 1997
Brigitte Nacos, ed., DECISIONMAKING IN A GLASS HOUSE, 2000

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Midterm, final, research paper.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

Adding your name to the enrollment request system is the only way to indicate interest for this course.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture/Discussion

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD Credit: 1 Gen Ed Area Dept: SBS GOVT Grading Mode: Graded

Prerequisites: GOVT155 OR GOVT151

SECTION 01

Instructor(s): Foyle,Douglas C.

Times: ..T.R.. 10:30AM-11:50AM; Location: JUDD214

Reserved Seats: (Total Limit: 18)

SR. major: 9 Jr. major: 9

SR. non-major: 0 Jr. non-major: 0 SO: X FR: X

Special Attributes:

Curricular Renewal: Speaking, Writing

Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-19-2004