Academic Calendar 2009 Search Office of the Registrar Western Homepage
Academic Calendar 2009 UNDERGRADUATE COURSE INFORMATION Political Science (SS)
INTRODUCTION
UNDERGRADUATE SESSIONAL DATES
STUDENT SERVICES
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
STUDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES
FACULTIES
UNDERGRADUATE COURSE INFORMATION
FACULTY MEMBERS
AFFILIATED UNIVERSITY COLLEGES
GLOSSARY
NEW MODULES/PROGRAMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS




Political Science (SS)

Note:  In order to find a course in the new 4 digit numbering system using an old 3 digit number, please refer to the conversion list below. Before registering for courses with the new 4 digit numbering system, please ensure that you have not previously taken the course in its 3 digit form.

Click here for conversion list of former 3-digit course numbers.

Political Science 1020E - Introduction to Political Science
A study of principal concepts, ideas and analytical methods of modern political science, with emphasis on the political systems of Canada and other selected countries.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2102A/B - Capitalism and Democracy
A conceptual and historical examination of 'capitalism' and 'democracy' and of various understandings of the relationship between them. The course will examine: the relationship of capitalism and democracy to such ends as freedom, equality and justice; the economic, political and social aspects of capitalism and democracy.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 2103A/B - Current Issues in Canadian Politics
An examination of selected issues in Canadian politics. Each year the course will allow for inquiry into three or four issues of current interest, to be chosen by the instructor. In each area, the focus will be on understanding the status quo, and then analyzing proposals for change.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 2230E.
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 2104 - The United Nations in the New Millennium
The course examines the United Nations' contributions to the resolution of diverse global problems. The course will assist the student to understand how the United Nations operates and to evaluate current United Nations policies and activities on a wide range of contemporary issues, including peace and security, economic development, human rights, and environmental protection.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2133A/B - The Provinces in the Canadian Federation
An examination of the role and place of the provinces within the Canadian federal system. The course provides an introduction to federal-provincial relations in Canada.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 2130, 2230E, 2234E, the former 212F/G
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 2135A/B - Canada Abroad
An analysis of significant factors in the determination of Canadian trade, defence and foreign policy; a comparison with similar determinants in other nations, where such comparisons are meaningful; the interplay of domestic and foreign considerations in the determination of national goals.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 2137 - The Politics of the Environment
An examination of human impacts on the earth's ecosystems, and the political responses to these impacts, with particular attention to the effects of industrial technologies and economic patterns, and the underlying values that support these. This course will draw upon concepts from economics, geography, and biology, as well as political science.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2190 - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2191A/B - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 2192A/B - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 2193 - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2200F/G - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 2201F/G - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 2202E - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2204E - Socialist Revolution in Theory and Practice
This course studies radical political thought and revolutionary practice from Marx to Mao, and examines the causes and consequences of radical politics in developed and developing countries in the twentieth century. It is a course in Marxist theory and anti-imperialist politics.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2205E - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2211E - Business and Government
A review of the relationship between business and government, emphasizing their respective responses to problems of economic and social change. The course will focus primarily on Canada.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2230E - Canadian Government and Politics
An examination of selected problems in Canadian government and politics, such as federalism, political parties and pressure groups.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 2103A/B, 2130, 2133A/B
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 1020E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2231E - International Relations
This course surveys contemporary world politics and examines contending theories used by scholars and policymakers to make sense of international affairs. It also provides the conceptual tolls and theories to interpret the international system.
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 1020E  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2234E - Comparative Provincial Politics
The development of provincial and regional politics and their impact on national and provincial policies. The structure of government and alternative approaches to defining the system of government in Canada form significant components of the course.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 2133A/B
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 1020E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2235E - The Politics of the Environment
An examination of human impacts on the earth's ecosystems, and the political responses to these impacts, with particular attention to the effects of industrial technologies and economic patterns, and the underlying values that support these. This course will draw upon concepts from economics, geography, and biology, as well as political science.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 2137
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2236E - Local Government
The structure and political processes of local government, including such subjects as provincial-municipal relations, finance, administration, and principles of urban and regional planning.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2237E - Introduction to Political Theory
An examination of central themes and issues in the history of political thought from ancient to modern times.
Antirequisite(s): Philosophy 2800F/G, 2801F/G, 2802E.   
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 1020E.   
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2240E - An Introduction to Third World Politics
A comparative analysis of social change and political process in Third World countries. The course focuses on the changing socio-economic and political factors which create and perpetuate poverty and inequality in Third World countries and illustrates, with country studies, these factors and the range of popular responses to them.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2244E - American Government and Politics
A study of the American Constitution, institutions of government and political processes.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 2144
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2245E - Introduction to Comparative Politics
Examines theoretical approaches to the study of comparative politics. The course introduces students to the methodology of comparative politics through the study of both developed and developing societies.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 1020E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2246E - Public Administration
The basic principles of public administration in the modern state, including organization, procedures and the relation of administration to policy making.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 2146
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 2286F/G - Policy Analysis
A survey which briefly reviews policy-making processes, and then concentrates on the analysis of policy outcomes, through current examples and the literature (primarily Canadian) on social indicators, policy planning, implementation, and evaluation.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
All Political Science courses at the 3000-level, offered on the main campus, are restricted to honors students or honors specialization students.  Each year the department will designate specific 3000-level courses that will be available to students registered in the Political Science Major module.  Consult the department website or the lecture timetable.
Political Science 3200E - Understanding September 11th
In what ways were the attacks of September 11th significant? This question is examined primarily using the 2001-2002 responses to the event of international relations theorists.  Associated themes include "Terrorism", "Anti-Americanism", "American Exceptionalism", "Imperialism", "Legitimacy", "Democracy", "Globalization" and "International Law".
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 393E if taken in 2006-07 and 2007-08.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3201F/G - Issues in International Law
This course explores the political implications of international law. It examines competing approaches and considers the nature of  international law. International law is discussed in the context of contemporary issues, including dispute settlement, terrorism,  humanitarian intervention, international impunity, the law of the sea, and human rights.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 3330E, 3345E, 390F if taken in 2006-07, 415E if taken in 2007-2008.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3202F/G - Gender and the Politics of Social Policy: Comparative Perspectives
This course examines social policy in numerous states through the lens of gender, and discusses their differential impact on women and men, especially relating to power and political structures. Key issues interrogated include political representation, sexual violence, beauty, war, religion, work and their links with class, ableism, racism and heteronormativity.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 391G if taken in 2002-03, 2003-04, 2004-05, 2005-06, 2006-07 and 391F if taken in 2007-08.
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 1020E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3203F/G - Critical Approaches to Global Security
This course interrogates global security issues through critical approaches, including feminist, Marxist and Gramscian, post-modern, environmentalist and post-colonial. It examines key dominant issues, such as nuclear weapons, but also alternative issues, such as racism in security policies, indigenous peoples’ security, masculinity and warfare, and capitalism and the military-industrial complex.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 3355F/G.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3313E - Ancient and Modern Political Responses to the Problems of Wealth and Poverty
A historical and philosophical study of the concepts of ‘wealth’, ‘poverty’ and related ideas in Western political thought starting with Homer and the Bible and ending with 21st-century arguments.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 202E if taken in 2003-04, 2004-05, 2005-06, 2006-07  
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2237E  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3314E - Environmental Politics in a Global Age
This course explores the theory and practice of global environmental governance. It offers a comprehensive overview of existing international policy on various ecological issues such as climate change. Through classroom simulations of global negotiations, students will analyze the political, economic, and social factors that shape outcomes in environmental politics.
Antirequisite(s): Global Environmental Politics offered as the former Political Science 455G in 2005-06 and 455F in 2006-07, Political Science 3379F/G   
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3316F/G - Political Parties
An analytical study of political parties. Topics include: the historical development of political parties; theoretical approaches to political parties; the role of political parties in the electorate and in government; political parties and representation. Emphasis will be placed on Canadian parties and cross-national comparisons.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3338E
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E or 2234E or 2244E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3317F/G - Interest Groups and Social Movements
An analytical study of interest groups and social movements. Topics include: theoretical approaches to interest group formation; the role of groups and movements in the policy-making process; their effectiveness as agents of democratic representation. Particular attention will be paid to the role of interest groups in Canada.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3338E
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E or 2234E or 2244E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3321F/G - Politics of India
An introduction to the politics and history of the world's largest functioning democracy. India's experience provides insight into the political process of a poor, developing country with a long history of colonialism that successfully constructed a constitutional government, republican in principle and parliamentary in institutional terms.
Antirequisite(s):  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3322F/G - Latin America in Global Perspective
An introduction to the political economy of Modern Latin America examines how the continuing interactions between foreign and domestic economic forces have shaped Latin American politics. It explores what is distinctive in the region about the present dynamics and processes associated with globalization.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3323F/G - The Politics of Latin America
Major themes have dominated discussions of the politics of Latin America, including populism, revolutionary struggle, military rule, democracy and participation, social movements and the quest for meaningful citizenship. A number of country-case studies highlight continuities and changes in the contemporary politics of the region.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3324F/G - Introduction to Research Methods in Political Science
This course introduces students to a range of methodological approaches to questions in political science. Students will become familiar with qualitative and quantitative data sources and ways of using each to address political issues.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in Honors Political Science, Honors Specialization in Political Science, or Major in Political Science.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial hour, 0.5 course
back to top
Political Science 3326E - Canadian-American Relations
This course examines the Canadian-American relationship by looking back to how it developed and ahead to what it might become, especially after NAFTA. Topics include communications, culture, trade and investment, immigration, security, the environment and extra-continental relations. Approaches include economic history, political economy, political integration and public choice.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3367F/G  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3328F/G - Political Development in the Muslim World
This half-course in comparative politics introduces the Muslim world through a few select case studies of Muslim majority countries of Asia and Africa, and explores the challenges, difficulties and problems of "old societies and new states" making transition to democracy and meeting the demands of globalization.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2245E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3329F/G - The Politics of the Middle East
This half-course in comparative politics introduces the Middle East in world politics and explores the issues relating to political and economic development, war and peace in the region through the second-half of the twentieth century to present times.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 2243E (Main Campus), Political Science 2143E (King's College), and Political Science 2243E (King's College)
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3331F/G - Courts and the Constitution
This course will provide an overview of Canada’s judicial system and constitution. The course will focus on the impact of judicial decisions on the federal system, the shift to a constitutional discourse based on rights, and issues relating to the judiciary such as the rule of law and judicial independence.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 212F/G, 214F/G  
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3332F/G - The Political Significance of the Charter
This course will examine and assess the Charter’s implications for the Canadian political process. The course will focus on judicial interpretation of the Charter, the respective roles of Parliament and the judiciary in the political process, and Charter litigation commenced by competing social interests.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 403F/G
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3333E - Canadian Foreign Policy
An examination of the development and character of Canadian external policy.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2231E or the former Political Science 250E or International Relations 2701E and either Political Science 2230E or 2234E.   
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3334E - Contemporary Political Theory
A seminar on key themes, problems, beliefs and approaches in recent political theory.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2237E.   
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3335E - Political Leadership in Canada
This course focusses on the office and powers of the Prime Minister of Canada. The course will review literature on political leadership in Canada, trace the evolution of the office, evaluate cabinet government, and examine styles of leadership.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E or 2234E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3336F/G - Elections and Voting
This course examines the role of elections in maintaining democratic governance from theoretical and empirical perspectives. Topics to be covered include: electoral systems; the legal framework governing election campaigns; the role of parties and the media in election campaigns; and the social, psychological and economic influences on voting behaviour.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E or 2234E or 2244E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3340F/G - The Rise and Fall of Communism in the USSR and Eastern Europe
Communism had a great impact on the politics and history of Europe and parts of Asia in the twentieth century. This course explores the form of communism which turned the collapsing Russian empire into the USSR, spread to Eastern Europe after World War Two and eventually collapsed in 1989-91.
Antirequisite(s): History 3419F/G.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3341F/G - The Post Communist Transformations
The collapse of communism in Europe had a profound impact on countries where the ideology had dominated. It also ended the bipolar international system and ushered in a new era in international relations. This course examines domestic, regional, international and transnational dimensions of these transformations.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3342F/G - The New Europe
This course explores the transformation of both attitudes and institutions which have followed the end of the Cold War. It looks at debates surrounding the evolving agenda of institutional enlargement in the EU, NATO, CSCE-OSCE and the creation of new institutions like the CIS, GUUAM, CEFTA.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3343F/G - European Union: The Politics of Integration
This course will survey the sources in history of European integration, the institutions and policy-making approaches that have resulted from these developments, and the extent to which the European Union has moved in a state-like or democratic direction and will do so in the future.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3344F/G - Western European Politics: States, Nations, and Regimes
This course provides a detailed introduction to Western European politics, with an emphasis upon Britain, France, Germany, and Italy. Topics include: state and nation formation, early experiences of autocratic and parliamentary rule, the sources and nature of post-WWII democracies, and the recent resurgence of nationalism and regionalism.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 2248E.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3346E - International Justice
A seminar course on contemporary theoretical issues of justice between states. The framework will be provided by the competing demands of political realism, state sovereignty, nationalism, and cosmopolitanism. Issues to be discussed may include the global distribution of wealth, intervention, crimes against humanity, cosmopolitan democracy, human rights, and environmental degradation.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3393E, 3391F/G, 4414F/G when offered as Selected Topics: International Justice.
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2237E and enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Honors Politics programs or 3rd or 4th year Honors Specialization in International Relations module    
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3348F/G - Contemporary Intergovernmental Relations in Canada
This course will describe, analyze and evaluate interactions between federal, provincial and local governments in Canada. The course will focus on the processes of interaction and the policy impacts of these relationships in the contemporary period.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 347E
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E or 2234E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3351E - Theories of the State
A seminar on theories of the nature and role of the modern state. Topics for discussion may include theories of state formation, pluralist, individualist and neo-Marxist views of the state, and the question of state autonomy in relation to economic and social formations.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2237E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3352E - Advanced International Politics
A seminar course treating theoretical aspects of international politics in the light of substantive material. The seminar will consider a selection of normative doctrines, conceptual frameworks, and theoretical propositions concerning various modes of international action and interaction, organization, and integration and evaluate these in application to contemporary world politics.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3353E - Canadian Defence and Security Policy
This course overviews the historical and strategic development of Canadian defence policy. It explores conceptual and theoretical frameworks useful for understanding security policy and focuses on the range of international security issues now confronting Canadian decision-makers.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3354E - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Politics, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Politics programs.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3359E - Feminism and Political Theory
An examination of feminist critiques of political thinkers from Plato to Marx and a discussion of feminist proposals for a political theory that addresses the question of women's position in contemporary social and political life.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2237E or permission of Department.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3363F/G - Urban Political Analysis
An introduction to the structures and actors that shape the politics of urban issues in large North American and West European cities. Students apply concepts learned to an in-depth study of a city or cities of their choice.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3368E
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 course in Political Science at the 2200 level
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3364F/G - Issues in Urban Governance
A thematic analysis of current policy problems and responses in large North American and West European cities. Issues include globalization and economic development, suburban sprawl, the challenge of social diversity and local environmental problems.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3368E
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 3363F/G
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3365F/G - Political Economy - North South
This course examines the nature of relations between developing and industrialized states with special focus on such issues as development, aid, trade, investment, food and agriculture.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3358F/G, 3357E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3366E - International Conflict Management
An examination of theories and strategies of international conflict and conflict management, including the causes of war, arms control, and various methods of reducing or eliminating conflict.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3367F/G - Political Economy: North America
An examination of the impact of North American economic and social integration on Canada/U.S. relations. Consideration is given to the applicability of various theories of political integration and economic interdependence to the case of Canada and the United States.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3370F/G - The Politics of Western Canada
An analysis of the political institutions and governmental processes within the four Western provinces of Canada.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E or 2234E or 2236E or permission of Department.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course
back to top
Political Science 3371F/G - The Politics of Quebec
An advanced study of Quebec politics, emphasizing the relevance of the economy, political parties, ideologies, language issues and nationalism.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E or 2234E or 2236E or permission of Department.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3372F/G - The Politics of Ontario
An advanced course dealing with the politics and government of Ontario. Specific issues will be studied as an illustration of the governmental process and politics of the province.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E or 2234E or 2236E.   
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3373F/G - The Politics of the Atlantic Provinces
An analysis of the political institutions and government processes within the Atlantic provinces.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E or 2234E or 2236E or permission of Department.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3387F/G - Current Research in Public Policy
A seminar devoted to the theory and methodology of public policy analysis and evaluation, this course will review briefly current approaches and techniques, before concentrating on the analysis of policy outcomes in such fields as regional development, natural resources, and secondary industry. Students will undertake some primary research.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2286F/G and one other honors politics course.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3388E - International Human Rights
This course will provide an overview of the topic of human rights, from its origins to its 21st century reality, to its various conceptions, theoretical notions, and instruments. It will look at issues of concern, abuses and potential solutions.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 2219E, 209E offered 2001 to 2004 at Huron.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3390F/G - Special Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Politics, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Politics programs.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3391F/G - Special Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Politics, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Politics programs.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3392E - Selected Topics in Political Science

Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Politics, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Politics programs.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3393E - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Politics, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Politics programs.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 3396F/G - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Politics, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Honors programs.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3397F/G - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Honors Politics or permission of the Department for students not registered in Honors programs.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 3398F/G - First Nations Political and Legal Issues
Political and legal issues are inseparable in contemporary examinations of land use, self-determination, governance, individual and community rights. This course will examine the legal institutions and practices of traditional First Nations cultures as well as contemporary practice.
Antirequisite(s): First Nations Studies 3722F/G  
Prerequisite(s): First Nations Studies 2218F/G or 2901E or Anthropology 2218F/G or History 2209E or 2201E or 2205E or 2207F/G or Political Science 2103A/B or 2230E or 2234E or the former 214F/G or Law 1101 or Women's Studies 3360.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
All Political Science courses at the 4000-level, offered on the main campus, are restricted to honors students or honors specialization students. 
Political Science 4200F/G - Political Theory and Modernity
What makes a political theory or a set of political practices ‘modern’? Can the ‘modern’ in politics be plausibly and usefully distinguished from the ‘pre-modern’ and the ‘postmodern’? Is political 'modernity' over? Is it on the way out? Or is it here to stay?
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 4437E, 413F if taken in 2004-05, 2005-06, 2006-07, 413G if taken in 2007-2008.
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2237E and one additional course in political theory.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4201F/G - The UN and Global Governance
The seminar examines current issues before the United Nations and assesses the organization's contributions to the resolution of diverse global problems. It assesses the UN's objectives, structure and decision-making procedures and evaluates current UN policies and activities on a range of contemporary issues. Current proposals for reform are assessed.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 3345E, 417F if taken in 2006-07, 415E if taken in 2004-05, 2005-06, 2007-2008.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4202F/G - Religion and Politics in Comparative Perspective
This course studies the interaction between religion and politics in Canada, the United States and Latin America. More specifically, the course examines the political relationship between church and state, and the religious foundation of political culture in these three cases.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 460G if taken in 2004-05, 2005-06, 2007-08
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2245E.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4203F/G - Social Diversity, Gender and the Law
This course assesses the Canadian legal system's potential to address inequalities based on group differences such as race, ethnicity, religion, Aboriginality, socioeconomic class and sexual identity. Particular attention is paid to the internal tensions that often arise where women's equality rights and the rights claims of minority social groups conflict.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4401F/G - American Foreign Policy
Contemporary theories and models of foreign policy decision making will be used to explain U.S. political, economic and security relations. Selected case studies will highlight the many domestic and external factors thought to be responsible for influencing America's conduct in the international community.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4404F/G - Globalization and National Sovereignty
The course is aimed to assess the impact of global interactions on the viability of the nation state. Some sessions will review global flows of capital, goods, services, technology, migration and communications and assess their effects on the capacity of national governments to exercise traditional instruments of national policy. Others will examine the extent to which these developments require a reconsideration of conventional theoretical perspectives on the state and international relations.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4405E - Legislative Politics
An introduction to the issues and debates relating to the place of legislatures within the political system. Among the main topics are the role of legislatures, their representative ability, legislative careers, parliamentary versus presidential systems and legislative reform. Emphasis will be placed on experience in Canada and the US.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E or 2234E or 2244E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 4406F/G - The European Welfare State
Is the European welfare state on the way out, or are the reports of its death greatly exaggerated? This seminar will deal with the status of the contemporary welfare state, within the context of its history, social and ideological foundations, and relationship to questions of citizenship, economic development, and European integration.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4408F/G - International Security
This course overviews current threats to international security such as nuclear weapons proliferation, terrorism, environmental degradation, and ethnic conflict. It also considers various approaches to alleviating these problems including UN peace support operations, regional alliances, espionage, arms control, and disarmament.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4409F/G - The United States and the Middle East
The course explores the complex relationship between the United States and the Middle East, particularly since the establishment of Israel and the making of new states in the region. It will focus primarily on how the United States views and came to occupy a defining role in the region's politics.
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4410F/G - Power, Politics and Subjects: An Examination of Key Questions
The focus of this course is the tradition of 20th century "critical theory", influenced by the so-called linguistic and cultural turns in the social sciences. Key questions to be explored are: What is power? What is the terrain of the "political"? Who are the subjects of political domination/political change?
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2237E and one additional political theory course or permission of the instructor.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4413F/G - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Honors Politics.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4414F/G - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Honors Politics.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4415E - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Honors Politics, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Politics programs.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 4416E - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Honors Politics, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Politics programs.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 4417F/G - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Honors Politics or permission of the Department for students not registered in Honors Politics.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4419F/G - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Honors Politics, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Politics programs.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4425F/G - Indigenous Politics in Kanata/Canada
This course introduces students to Indigenous politics and the politics of colonization before and since the invasion of Kanata/Canada. It examines the political structures of colonization, reactions to colonization, and contemporary struggles for decolonization.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 417G taken in 2003-04
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 2230E or 2234E
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4426F/G - Genocide
The course examines the theoretical and methodological issues related to the topic of genocide and considers empirical cases of genocide and genocidal acts, such as "ethnic cleansing." The course begins by looking at the definition of genocide, then moves to discuss more recent cases of genocides and genocidal acts.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 413G taken in 2003-04, 459F taken in 2005-06 or 2006-07   
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 3388E   
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4427F/G - Transitional Justice
This course aims to critically examine a number of the approaches to and difficulties with efforts in transitional justice and post-conflict social reconstruction.
Antirequisite(s): Selected Topics course Justice After Atrocity offered as the former Political Science 414G taken in 2003-04, 456G in 2004-05, 461G in 2005-06 or 2006-07   
Prerequisite(s): Political Science 3388E   
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4440F/G - Dilemmas of the Post Communist World: Between Past and Future
This course looks at the states referred to as "new democracies" and "post-totalitarian states". It will encourage students to look back and forward simultaneously, to explore how different states within the post communist world have such divergent transformation trajectories. The material is approached from a multi-disciplinary perspective.
Antirequisite(s): History 4417F/G  
Prerequisite(s): History 4415E or Political Science 3340F/G or 3341F/G, or permission of instructor.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4455F/G-4464F/G - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Honors Politics or permission of the Department for students not registered in Honors Politics.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4479E - Honors Seminar
A fourth year honors seminar dealing with selected issues in political science. The topics may vary from year to year. Students should consult the Department.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Registration in fourth-year of an Honors Political Science module and written Special Permission of the instructor
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 seminar hours, 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 4485E - Selected Topics in Political Science
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the Department.
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 4490E - Thesis
Written Special Permission of the instructor and a minimum 80% average in third year. Thesis is to be submitted by April 15 of the fourth year.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s):  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 1.0 course.
back to top
Political Science 4901A/B - Advanced Local Government
An advanced survey of central topics in the study of local government. Topics include urban reform movements, metropolitan and regional government, special-purpose bodies, and finance.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Diploma Program in Public Administration or permission of Department.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4902A/B - The Policy Process in Local Government
After an introduction to policy analysis, there is an examination of the factors which help determine local government decisions about policies, development expenditures, and taxes. The scope for local government to frame its own economic policies and address social, economic and environmental problems is analyzed.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Diploma Program in Public Administration and Political Science 4901A/B or permission of Department.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4903A/B - Organizational Behavior in a Local Government Environment
An introduction to current theoretical perspectives and research findings in the field of organizational behavior, with emphasis on topics relevant to the administration of local government organizations. Topics examined include organizational structure, power, council-staff relations, and working with stakeholders.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Diploma Program in Public Administration or permission of Department.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4904A/B - Local Government Management
An examination of issues arising in local government administration in a changing environment, using case analyses and seminars. Topics addressed include labor relations, human resource management issues, and the implementation of organizational change.
Antirequisite(s):
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Diploma Program in Public Administration and Political Science 4903A/B or permission of Department.  
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 2 hours, 0.5 course.
back to top
Political Science 4931E - Research Report
Antirequisite(s):
Corequisite(s):
Pre-or Corequisite(s):
Extra Information: 1.0 course.
back to top
Academic Calendar 2009 UNDERGRADUATE COURSE INFORMATION Political Science (SS)
Decision Academic