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Public Opinion and Foreign Policy
GOVT314 SP

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 considered across a range of specific decisions.

MAJOR READINGS

Herbert Asher, POLLING AND THE PUBLIC: WHAT EVERY CITIZEN SHOULD KNOW, 3RD EDN. 1995 Daniel Hallin, THE "UNCENSORED WAR": THE MEDIA AND VIETNAM, 1986 John Mueller, POLICY AND OPINION IN THE GULF WAR, 1994 Richard Sobel, ed. PUBLIC OPINION IN U.S. FOREIGN POLICY: THE CONTROVERSY OVER CONTRA AID, 1993

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Computer-aided learn exercises. Media poll analysis (5-6 pages). Research paper (15-18 pages). Registrar scheduled final exam.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

The course will count toward the international politics, public policy, and the American politics concentrations. Unless preregistered students attend the first class meeting or communicate directly with the instructor prior to the first class, they will be dropped from the class list. NOTE: Students must still submit a completed Drop/Add form to the Registrar's Office.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture/Discussion

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

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

Prerequisites: NONE

Last Updated on MAR-24-2000

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