Professional Degree courses in Dentistry, Education, Law, Medicine and Theology (MTS, MDiv)
6000-6999
Courses offered by Continuing Studies
9000-9999
Graduate Studies courses
* These courses are equivalent to pre-university introductory courses and may be counted for credit in the student's record, unless these courses were taken in a preliminary year. They may not be counted toward essay or breadth requirements, or used to meet modular admission requirements unless it is explicitly stated in the Senate-approved outline of the module.
Suffixes
no suffix
1.0 course not designated as an essay course
A
0.5 course offered in first term
B
0.5 course offered in second term
A/B
0.5 course offered in first and/or second term
E
1.0 essay course
F
0.5 essay course offered in first term
G
0.5 essay course offered in second term
F/G
0.5 essay course offered in first and/or second term
H
1.0 accelerated course (8 weeks)
J
1.0 accelerated course (6 weeks)
K
0.75 course
L
0.5 graduate course offered in summer term (May - August)
Q/R/S/T
0.25 course offered within a regular session
U
0.25 course offered in other than a regular session
W/X
1.0 accelerated course (full course offered in one term)
Y
0.5 course offered in other than a regular session
Z
0.5 essay course offered in other than a regular session
Glossary
Prerequisite
A course that must be successfully completed prior to registration for credit in the desired course.
Corequisite
A course that must be taken concurrently with (or prior to registration in) the desired course.
Antirequisite
Courses that overlap sufficiently in course content that both cannot be taken for credit.
Essay Courses
Many courses at Western have a significant writing component. To recognize student achievement, a number of such courses have been designated as essay courses and will be identified on the student's record (E essay full course; F/G/Z essay half-course).
Principal Courses
A first year course that is listed by a department offering a module as a requirement for admission to the module. For admission to an Honours Specialization module or Double Major modules in an Honours Bachelor degree, at least 3.0 courses will be considered principal courses.
An introduction to the study of politics. The course focuses on ideas (including politics, power, democracy, justice, freedom), ideologies (including liberalism, conservatism, socialism, feminism), institutions (including the nation-state, constitutions, legislatures, executives, the judiciary), political mobilization (participation, elections, parties, interest groups), and research skills, emphasizing Canadian, comparative, and international examples.
An introduction to the study of politics. The course focuses on ideas (including politics, power, democracy, justice, freedom), ideologies (including liberalism, conservatism, socialism, feminism), institutions (including the nation-state, constitutions, legislatures, executives, the judiciary), political mobilization (participation, elections, parties, interest groups), and research skills, emphasizing Canadian, comparative, and international examples.
An introduction to the study of politics. The course focuses on ideas (including politics, power, democracy, justice, freedom), ideologies (including liberalism, conservatism, socialism, feminism), institutions (including the nation-state, constitutions, legislatures, executives, the judiciary), political mobilization (participation, elections, parties, interest groups), and research skills, emphasizing Canadian, comparative, and international examples.
This introduction to politics emphasizes how people and the state use power to achieve political aims. Students will learn essential concepts (power, authority, democracy, freedom) and influential ideologies (liberalism, conservatism, socialism, feminism, nationalism), explore our institutional landscape (legislatures, executives, the judiciary) and agents of change (parties, media, interest groups).
This introduction to politics emphasizes how people and the state use power to achieve political aims. Students will learn essential concepts (power, authority, democracy, freedom) and influential ideologies (liberalism, conservatism, socialism, feminism, nationalism), explore our institutional landscape (legislatures, executives, the judiciary) and agents of change (parties, media, interest groups).
This course introduces students to the study of global politics. Drawing on a range of perspectives, the course examines the most significant issues in global affairs such as war, peace, terrorism, security, diplomacy, nationalism, global justice, global environment, globalization, global governance, poverty, development, human rights, gender, and inequality.
This course introduces students to the study of global politics. Drawing on a range of perspectives, the course examines the most significant issues in global affairs such as war, peace, terrorism, security, diplomacy, nationalism, global justice, global environment, globalization, global governance, poverty, development, human rights, gender, and inequality.
This course provides a beginner with a political science approach to Canada. The class introduces important aspects of Canadian politics and governance, focusing on Canada’s political and legal system, its Indigenous foundations, its political, social, and economic characteristics, and key policy debates.
This course is designed to address a series of overarching questions about law, governance and public policy. Students will learn a variety of theoretical and methodological approaches to study law and public policy, with a focus on the application of these debates to contemporary social and political issues.
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.
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.
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.
A study of the factors governing international relations: the United Nations; the foreign policies of such countries as the USA, Russia, UK, France, China and Canada.
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.
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.
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.
This course critically discusses the history and development of globalization and the cultural, social, religious and political impacts of an interconnected world. Topics include: global financial crisis and governance; global production and trade; rising fundamentalism and religious backlash; cultural homogeneity and westernization; global social movements and protest; global environmental issues.
Lectures focus on international security issues including biological weapons, conventional warfare, environmentally-caused conflict, nuclear terrorism, and on the causes of global violence including forced migration, population growth, poverty, and underdevelopment. We discuss using deterrence, diplomacy,
peacekeeping, and international organizations, like the UN and NATO to avert global violence.
This course explores politics and popular culture through (and in) film, television, as well as digital and print media (advertisements, blogs etc.). The course will acquaint students with some major political theories, as well as examine selected issues such as capitalism, urbanism, consumerism, war, terrorism, transhumanism, technology and science.
This course explores politics and popular culture through (and in) film, television, as well as digital and print media (advertisements, blogs etc.). The course will acquaint students with some major political theories, as well as examine selected issues such as capitalism, urbanism, consumerism, war, terrorism, transhumanism, technology and science.
This course is designed to introduce students to the complex relationship between politics and media in different political systems. It explores how media systems operate and how they influence politics. Topics range from ownership structures (who owns the media and why it matters), to elections, infotainment, social media, and propaganda.
Television is one of the means by which the pulse of politics and society is measured by political actors. This course will critically examine politics and television, focused on Canada and the US politics-focused shows. It will consider three types of political shows: political satire, political comedy, and political drama.
On 24 February 2022 Russia escalated and launched a full-scale war against Ukraine. This course gets behind the headlines and explores the what, why, and how of this brutal, unprovoked war in modern Europe. Themes include hybrid warfare, disinformation, geo-politics, international law, humanitarian impact, and more.
The basic principles of public administration in the modern state, including organization, procedures and the relation of administration to policy making.
This course introduces students to interdisciplinary studies of transitional justice and post-conflict reconstruction, with emphasis on questions of conflict. Students will examine key concepts and explore theoretical problems in confronting and seeking solutions to the aftermath of large-scale events of social violence, including war, genocide, and authoritarian rule.
This course examines the politics of economic issues. It focuses on the competition between free market and interventionist economic ideas and how businesses, unions, think tanks and lobby groups seek to influence government policy across various issue areas such as taxes, spending, trade, finance, regulation, the environment, recessions and competitiveness.
This course surveys the various ways leadership has been defined and treated theoretically and explores real world cases concerning how leaders exercise leadership, particularly in complex or challenging conditions. The course illustrates why and how some leaders are important, unpredictable and creative agents with much capacity to influence political outcomes.
This course examines the politics of economic issues. It focuses on the competition between free market and interventionist economic ideas and how businesses, unions, think tanks and lobby groups seek to influence government policy across various issue areas such as taxes, spending, trade, finance, regulation, the environment, recessions and competitiveness.
This course addresses core social policy debates (in areas such as health, education, immigration, among others), how the state marshals resources to create and administer these programs and how citizens mobilize to have their preferences heard.
A lecture course on the political dimensions of human rights. The course begins by examining the meaning and interpretations of human rights, and then discusses the application of the human rights discourse in real world situations both within states and at the international level.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3388E.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level.
Examines the interrelationship between politics, government and the media in Canada. The principal themes of the course include: the political history of the media in Canada; ideology and the media; the political economy of the Canadian media; State regulation of the media; politics and the news; and the political effects of the media.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level, or permission of the Department.
A study of the political, economic, and social issues related to development and underdevelopment, including development strategies, global institutions, foreign aid, state building, and democratization. The focus will be on Africa, Asia, and Latin America, supplemented by attention to specific national and regional case studies.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 2225E.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level.
Extra Information: 2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial hour.
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 tools and theories to interpret the international system.
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 tools and theories to interpret the international system.
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 tools and theories to interpret the international system.
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 tools and theories to interpret the international system. This is a 1.0 unit condensed course, meeting for 3 hours, twice weekly, for a total of 6.0 hours/week.
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) at Huron: Political Science 2294G if taken in 2019-20, Political Science 2295F/G if taken in 2021-22 or 2022-23.
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) at Huron: Political Science 2294G if taken in 2019-20, Political Science 2295F/G if taken in 2021-22 or 2022-23.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level or permission of instructor.
An examination of central themes and issues in the history of political thought from ancient to modern times. This is a 1.0 unit condensed course, meeting for 3 hours, twice weekly, for a total of 6.0 hours/week.
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.
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.
This course explores many of the inner workings of government. Students will be introduced to selected research and issues in public administration and public policy in the context of Canada’s federal system. Topics include the politics-administration interface, intergovernmental relations, representative bureaucracy, the policy process, and citizen engagement, among others.
This course explores many of the inner workings of government. Students will be introduced to selected research and issues in public administration and public policy in the context of Canada’s federal system. Topics include the politics-administration interface, intergovernmental relations, representative bureaucracy, the policy process, and citizen engagement, among others.
This course introduces students to the study of public policy and governance. Examining the core concepts of the public policy cycle, policy instruments and program evaluation, the course explores challenges of cross-sector collaboration, multi-level governance, citizenship engagement, and leadership accountability.
This course focuses on the participation and subordination of women in the processes of politics and examines ways of achieving greater equality for women in political life and society.
This course focuses on the participation and subordination of women in the processes of politics and examines ways of achieving greater equality for women in political life and society.
A comprehensive survey of the principal issues, perspectives and debates in the field of global political economy. Topics include the emergence of economic globalisation and its consequences for the environment, labour, democracy, international conflict and poverty. Alternatives to contemporary economic globalisation and contending approaches to international development are also considered.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level.
This course focuses on how women participate and effect political change. It examines women's subordination and the wide-range of emancipatory struggles women have undertaken to achieve equality.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Sciences course(s) at the 1000-level or GSWS 1020E or registration in Honours Specialization or Major modules in Social Justice and Peace Studies.
This course focuses on how women participate and effect political change. It examines women's subordination and the wide-range of emancipatory struggles women have undertaken to achieve equality.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Sciences course(s) at the 1000-level or GSWS 1020E or registration in Honours Specialization or Major modules in Social Justice and Peace Studies.
This course considers the operation of Canada's health care system and the public-policy initiatives designed to address the political and economic challenges of delivering health care services in Canada.
A course that compares government policies for families in North America, Europe, and other parts of the world. Policies for child care, parental leave, income support, pensions and other areas are considered. Course shows how international comparisons can lead to better family policies in Canada and elsewhere.
An examination of government policies affecting families in Canada. Areas of family policy considered include child care, parental leave, income support, tax benefits, and pension arrangements. Course reveals the importance of government for Canadian families and their successful development.
An introduction to Chinese Government and Politics with reference to the historical evolution of the political system, ideology, institutions and political processes.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level, or permission of the Department.
This course examines policy making and public administration in Canada and the United States. Comparing institutions, processes, and cultures, the course surveys a range of policy fields including economic development, social welfare, health care, and public security. Theoretical approaches are supplemented with insider perspectives from policy participants.
A course which employs the theory of games to depict and resolve political situations involving an absence of cooperation. The prisoner’s dilemma, chicken, stag hunt, and the ultimatum game are some of the games applied to such key events as trade disputes, nuclear threats, and the provision of public goods.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level or permission of instructor.
An introductory course which examines the key dimensions of political leadership: nature and significance of leadership, power and leadership, historical and modern approaches to political leadership, skills and competencies of leadership, and political leadership in practice.
Within the context of contemporary politics and global terrorism, this course explores how fear has become an integral aspect of our political discourses, security apparatuses, social and cultural narratives, and our constructions of Self and Other.
An introductory course that examines the differing conceptions of leadership, the use of power in the exercise of leadership, and the skills and competencies associated with successful leaders. Also considered is the significance of leadership and its application in the past and present.
An introduction to the key theoretical frameworks and political debates in the study of genocide and other mass crimes of the state. The course provides a conceptual and historical overview, exploring cases of genocide and mass violence over the past century, their causes and consequences, and international responses.
A course which investigates items in political science that are counter to common sense or elude explanation. Items that are considered include the decline of crime, the election of the unelectable, that failing is good, and other paradoxes in politics.
This course introduces students to basic concepts and methods of research design in political science. Students will learn about how the scientific method of research can be applied to the study of human behaviour, adopting both qualitative or quantitative methods of analysis.
This course introduces students to basic concepts and methods of research design in political science. Students will learn about how the scientific method of research can be applied to the study of human behaviour, adopting both qualitative or quantitative methods of analysis.
This course examines the causes and consequences of the current conflict in Ukraine. By looking at Russian and Ukrainian history, placing it in international context and exploring concepts such as state, empire, nation, and the role of mass media, it provides a larger framework for understanding what is happening today.
This course examines the politics of economic issues. No prior economics training is required. It focuses on the competition between free market and interventionist economic ideas and how businesses, unions, and lobby groups seek to influence government policy on issues such as taxes, regulations, recessions, trade, finance, diversity, and labour.
This course examines the politics of economic issues. No prior economics training is required. It focuses on the competition between free market and interventionist economic ideas and how businesses, unions, and lobby groups seek to influence government policy on issues such as taxes, regulations, recessions, trade, finance, diversity, and labour.
Canada is a country fraught with highly competitive and divergent interests and yet it continues to exist, somehow resisting the forces that should fragment and destroy it. What explains this situation? In this course, we survey the institutional and non-institutional forces that drive cooperation and conflict in Canada.
This course provides an introduction to the complexity of the international system. It considers how actors act and interact, and how the structures created at the international level mediate those relationships. The course focuses on the evolution of these interactions, with attention to the tensions between state and non-state actors.
This course provides an introduction to the complexity of the international system. It considers the ways in which actors are able to act and interact with one another, and how the structures that have been created at the international level mediate those relationships. The course focuses on the evolution of these interactions, paying careful attention to the tensions between state and non-state actors.
This course explores ‘race’ as a stigmatizing force in Canadian politics and how laws and policies are constructed on the bedrock of whiteness. It examines how the racialization of Indigenous peoples, ethnoracialized groups and ethnoreligious minorities shapes contemporary controversies in the realms of law, public policy, policing and criminal justice.
This course explores ‘race’ as a stigmatizing force in Canadian politics and how laws and policies are constructed on the bedrock of whiteness. It examines how the racialization of Indigenous peoples, ethnoracialized groups and ethnoreligious minorities shapes contemporary controversies in the realms of law, public policy, policing and criminal justice.
This course offers a topical survey of a very diverse field. It will address: (i) what is the purpose of the state? (ii) what is freedom and what are the limits of liberty? (iii) what is equality and should we pursue it? (iv) what is justice and how is it best achieved?
This course applies the concepts justice, equality, and liberty to relevant contemporary political issues including multiculturalism, race and sex, global justice, climate change, historical injustice, and immigration. The focus will be on teaching you how to critically review arguments and develop your own views of these matters.
This course introduces American politics by focusing on the Constitution, the institutions of the United States’ government and the processes and bodies that determine public policies. We will cover the Constitution and the major components of the U.S. political system including elections, voters, political parties and the branches of government.
This course sets out the major themes, concepts, and approaches used in comparative politics. It undertakes systematic comparisons of political developments and institutions while providing students with an introductory look at the character of national political life in a variety of areas of the world.
This course sets out the major themes, concepts, and approaches used in comparative politics. It undertakes systematic comparisons of political developments and institutions while providing students with an introductory look at the character of national political life in a variety of areas of the world.
This course explores many of the inner workings of government. Students will be introduced to selected research and issues in public administration in the context of Canada’s federal system. Topics include the machinery of government, the politics-administration dichotomy, intergovernmental relations, representative bureaucracy, accountability, and ethical dilemmas, among others.
This course introduces students to selected theories of the policy process in the context of Canada’s federal system. Students will acquire the knowledge and tools to examine government action or in-action in any policy area. An important skill set for active and informed citizenship.
This course explores issues inherent to regions facing the aftermath of large-scale events of social violence, including war, genocide, and authoritarian rule, with an emphasis on questions of justice and post-conflict reconstruction. Students will examine specific cases of recent attempts to establish just responses to conflict within affected communities.
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".
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.
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.
Africa is growing in importance in International Relations. The place of Africa in world politics will be examined using the writings of prominent (mostly African) international relations theorists. As part of this, we will examine the ideas of 'Africa', the state, power, imperialism, legitimacy, institutions, and colonialism.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3390F if taken in 2012-13 or 2013-14.
Policy makers in business and government have a need to understand political risks faced in the various countries where they operate. This course uses contemporary cases to evaluate the major theories of political risk assessment to provide students with the tools needed to understand this increasingly important industry.
This course explores the politics of gender, race, class and sexuality in global contexts by introducing students to the political history of women's movements, feminist political debates, political theories of gender inequality, and critical analyses of gender representations in political and social media.
This course explores international climate change negotiations, the evolution of multilevel climate governance, and the factors that shape policy outcomes. Topics include: history of climate negotiations; negotiating positions of key countries and their domestic policy; global political dynamics and policy debates; and the role of leadership, norms, discourse and persuasion.
This course explores the dynamics of foreign policy creation with emphasis on the Canadian context. We will examine who creates foreign policy, how it is implemented, and critically assess policy documents and outcomes. This will include discussion of issues such as counterterrorism, humanitarianism, militarization, trade, financial governance and bilateral negotiations.
This course will critically assess the state of Canadian-American relations through different perspectives, issues and policy debates. Topics include theories and arguments related to North American integration and divergence from local, regional and global perspectives; economic and political integration; and developments in defence, security, environment, culture and labour.
This course examines recent attempts to make sense of the idea of human rights. What are human rights? How are they justified? What do human beings have rights to? What is the point of a theory of human rights? How are human rights related to the goal of distributive equality?
Historically, most political regimes have been authoritarian, and there is no sign of authoritarianism’s disappearance. This course addresses the sources of authoritarianism, the varieties of authoritarian regime, the institutions and practices supportive of dictatorship, the causes of authoritarian decline and failure, and the authoritarian impulses residing within some democratic regimes.
This course surveys classic works in the history of political theory. Key themes include the bases of political authority and political obligation, the nature and defence of individual rights, the idea of a social contract, the meaning and status of equality, and the critique of liberal democracy.
This course focuses on three areas: democracy, development, and society, using a comparative lens (e.g., Why are some countries more democratic than others?). The course also studies how institutions and political processes affect these three areas.
This course examines two inter-related topics central to modern political theory and modern societies: first, equality and inequality; second, violence. Readings include canonical statements (Rousseau, Marx, Fanon, Arendt), contemporary treatments and case studies. These include the purpose of equality, the distribution of wealth, the psychology of violence and its justifications.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level and 3rd or 4th year standing in any module/program, or permission of the Department.
This course addresses immigration, refugee and multiculturalism policy and their social and political consequences in Canadian civil society. Students will learn about the evolution of these policies, covering topics such as public opinion, media, humanitarian intervention and Canada's role in the global migration community.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level and 3rd or 4th year standing in any module/program, or permission of the Department.
This course addresses the evolution and current state of the Canadian legal system with an emphasis on the Canadian constitution, criminal code and administrative law. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship between different levels of governments, governments and citizens, and legal relationships between citizens.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 credit at the 1000 level from Political Science, Sociology, Economics, or Social Justice and Peace Studies, or permission of the department.
The formation of political identities is explored in the context of cultures, ideologies, discourses, and narratives in a globalizing world. Investigating citizenship, political participation, engagement in social movements and political protest, the course focuses on hybrid, fragmented, and multiple identities and their political consequences, notably attempts to construct singular identities.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Sciences course(s) at the 1000-level plus 1.0 course in Political Science at the 2200-level, or permission of the department.
The formation of political identities is explored in the context of cultures, ideologies, discourses, and narratives in a globalizing world. Investigating citizenship, political participation, engagement in social movements and political protest, the course focuses on hybrid, fragmented, and multiple identities and their political consequences, notably attempts to construct singular identities.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Sciences course(s) at the 1000-level plus 1.0 course in Political Science at the 2200-level, or permission of the department.
An introduction to the role of masses in political life. Topics include agitation, propaganda, protest, social movements, symbolic politics and mobilization. Ethnic discrimination, nationalism, political terror and political violence are explored through the psychology of ethnocentrism, xenophobia, authoritarianism, dogmatism and racism.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
The political dimension of the social policy debates of recent decades, the challenges of public policy formulation and evaluation, and the experience of Canada and other countries in the social policy field will be examined.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 3309E.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level, or Social Work 1021A/B and Social Work 1022A/B.
This course critically analyzes informal governance, laws, practices, processes, and norms, covering key global issues including peace, war, economy, gender, race, environment, internet, and health. It also investigates everyday practices of states, non-state actors, and informality in major international organizations, such as the UN, EU, AU and ASEAN.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level and 3rd or 4th year standing in any module/program, or permission of the Department.
With a critical focus on conceptions of citizenship and bordering practices, this course explores how contemporary domestic and global politics relate to questions of identity, belonging, territory, and
sovereign power.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 2297F/G.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Sciences course(s) at the 1000-level plus 1.0 course in Political Science at the 2200-level, or permission of the department.
An examination of the relationship between civil society, community and democracy. This seminar focuses on if and how grassroots collective participation creates and/or enhances democratic spaces and practices.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year in either Political Science, Politics and International Relations, or Social Justice and Peace Studies, or Permission of the Department.
An examination of protest movements and unconventional politics with reference to competing theories regarding their formation and activities. Focus will be on the creation of shared identity, solidarity, and cultural and political principles.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year in either Political Science, Politics and International Relations, or Social Justice and Peace Studies, or Permission of the Department.
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.
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.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year in either Political Science, Politics and International Relations, or Social Justice and Peace Studies, or Permission of the Department.
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.
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.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year in either Political Science, Politics and International Relations, or Social Justice and Peace Studies, or Permission of the Department.
This course undertakes a comparative examination of liberal and republican theories of freedom and justice before turning to various critical theories of society. Students will assess the nature of our "situated freedom." Are our society's institutions and rules responsive and changeable, or is freedom significantly limited by social control?
Women continue to be underrepresented in civic leadership. This course offers a unique experience for students who identify as women and are interested in becoming engaged in civic leadership and community building. Students are paired with a female civic leader to learn about the opportunities and barriers facing women.
Extra Information: 2 hours. Limited enrolment. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the course. Priority will be given to students registered in Political Science, Politics and International Relations or Social Justice and Peace Studies at Kings; or Political Science or Leadership Studies at Main campus. Application and interview are required. Check deadlines with your Program Coordinator/Chair.
Women continue to be underrepresented in civic leadership. This course offers a unique experience for students who identify as women and are interested in becoming engaged in civic leadership and community building. Students are paired with a female civic leader to learn about the opportunities and barriers facing women.
Extra Information: 2 hours. Limited enrolment. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the course. Priority will be given to students registered in Political Science, Politics and International Relations or Social Justice and Peace Studies at Kings; or Political Science or Leadership Studies at Main campus. Application and interview are required. Check deadlines with your Program Coordinator/Chair.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in Honours Political Science or Politics and International Relations, Honours Specialization in Political Science or Politics and International Relations, Majors in Political Science or Politics and International Relations.
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.
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.
For women’s and minority movements equal political representation has been a significant goal. However, attaining equal representation has been elusive and complicated with significant implications for citizenship and political power. This course examines the complexities of insuring the representation of diversity in political institutions.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year in either Political Science, Politics and International Relations, or Social Justice and Peace Studies, or Permission of the Department.
This course provides an overview of the global food system, from production (agriculture) to consumption (diets). By exploring issues such as agricultural trade liberalization, global food governance, global food corporations and decolonization in food, this course provides an issues-based approach to the politics of food in the world today.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in third or fourth year of Politics and International Relations, Political Science, Sociology, or Social Justice and Peace Studies, or permission of the department.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This course critically situates the role and place of public opinion within the politics of advanced industrial democracies. Topics include defining the concept of public opinion; considering the individual and group sources of opinion; and evaluating the relationship of public opinion with public policy, media and various contemporary issues.
This is a course which examines the role and influence of policy and political advisors to government leaders operating largely within the Canadian context. The theme of the course is that a great deal of power is wielded by appointed officials residing close to those with formal authority.
A course for students wishing to work in government or pursue careers that require a close appreciation of the operation of government. Course examines the responsibilities of public servants and their relationships with other actors in the political process. Focus is on Canada, but other countries are considered.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A study of the principles and operations of international and regional associations such as the UN and NATO. An introduction to international law, emphasizing its relevance to the resolution of conflicts between nations.
A study of the principles and operations of international and regional associations such as the UN and NATO. An introduction to international law, emphasizing its relevance to the resolution of conflicts between nations.
An overview of theories that try to explain action and non-action in global environmental politics as well as the issues that are driving the global environmental crisis. The course offers conventional and critical theoretical views, and explores issues such as corporate governance, social movements and mechanisms of change.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in third or fourth year of Politics and International Relations, Political Science, Social Justice and Peace Studies, or permission of the department.
This course offers a thorough examination of federalism. It devotes significant attention to the Canadian case, but it sets Canadian federalism securely within a broader comparative context. The course will explore federal theory, federal institutions, and the implications of federalism for political actors, intergovernmental negotiations, and crucial public policy outcomes.
This is a course which considers the origins and operation of federalism in Canada. The course centres on the interactions of federal and provincial governments in the making of policy and highlights the challenges and changing nature of intergovernmental relations.
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.
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.
This course offers a comprehensive overview and understanding of the field of “Security Studies,” as well as a critical exploration of specific topics, debates, and issues in contemporary security theory and governance.
An examination of theories of the state and democracy, and the mediating role of law in relations between groups, individuals and the state. Issues discussed include the justifiable limits on state interference in the lives of citizens, the viability of democratic decision-making, internal nationalist, ethnic, religious and linguistic divisions, and multiculturalism.
This seminar course examines the main issues and theoretical debates surrounding contemporary economic globalisation. It analyses the implications of a globalising economy for environmental protection, labour, inequality, democracy, and international peace. The rise of resistance movements and proposals for alternatives to globalisation's current form are also considered.
A study of the politics of economic relations, including relations among the advanced industrialized countries, the integration of former centrally-planned economies into the world market economy, and relations between developed and developing countries.
A study of the politics of economic relations, including relations among the advanced industrialized countries, the integration of former centrally-planned economies into the world market economy, and relations between developed and developing countries.
A seminar course that examines the theoretical debates and issues surrounding economic development. It surveys the main theoretical approaches that seek to explain the causes of underdevelopment and the development strategies they advocate. Case studies include micro-credit, fair trade, foreign aid, child labour, gender and development, and foreign debt.
An introduction to the politics of contemporary Africa, with emphasis on the legacies of colonialism and leadership and governance trends. The course uses theoretical literature on Africa's politics and development, as well as focused case studies, to explore issues including conflict, China in Africa, development aid, women in politics, and HIV/AIDS.
This course looks critically at the role of media as a contributor to and conduit of the political process. It examines the impact of media type and journalistic practices on the distribution of information and political behaviour. Both traditional and new media will be examined in depth.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3384F/G, Political Science 4208F/G or the former Political Science 3350E.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level and 3rd or 4th year standing in any module/program, or permission of the Department.
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): At least 1.0 2200-level Political Science course.
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.
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.
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.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in third or fourth year of Politics and International Relations, Political Science, Social Justice and Peace Studies, or Economics, or permission of the department.
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.
A study of principles and operations of international law, global organizations and regional groupings, emphasizing their relevance to conflict resolution and the creation of prosperity in the 21st century. Cases include the United Nations, World Trade Organization, European Union, African Union, International
Criminal Court, International Monetary Fund and World Bank.
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.
A comprehensive overview of the major issues, actors, ideas, institutions, and interests that constitute the global politics of the environment. The course covers the major worldviews of global environmental politics, the relationship between the global economy and the global environment, and the various approaches to managing global environmental change.
This course will be concerned with the phenomenon of ethnic conflict and conflict resolution. It will examine the numerous theories of ethnicity and ethnic conflict resolution, and will apply these to various examples of ethnic conflict throughout the world.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level and 3rd or 4th year standing in any module/program, or permission of the Department.
An analysis of China's international relations after the Cold War by focusing on the impact of the international environment, the domestic determinants of its foreign policy, changing security concerns, and the patterns of its interaction with other global powers and international organizations.
An analysis of Japan's international relations after the Cold War by focusing on the impact of the international environment, the domestic determinants of its foreign policy, changing security concerns, and the pattern of its interaction with other global powers and international organizations.
This advanced seminar course examines how neoliberalism became so dominant in the global political economy and considers alternative explanations for the global spread of neoliberalism, including the roles played by global economic competition, military and economic power, policy learning, international institutions, think tanks, economists, consultants and transnational advocacy groups.
An examination of how surveillance has become ubiquitous and taken for granted in contemporary society. Beyond general themes of surveillance studies, such as control, visibility, classification, authentication, etc., this course focuses on the role of surveillance in social sorting and (in)security in society.
This course examines the ways that political issues are addressed within popular culture as well as the impact of popular culture on politics. Studying different forms and expressions, including literature, television, film and music, students will investigate how political issues are interpreted within popular culture, and assess the implications for civic education and political change.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
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 Indigenous cultures as well as contemporary practice.
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 Indigenous cultures as well as contemporary practice.
Reading and discussion of selected topics in Political Science.
Prerequisite(s): Third or fourth year standing in an Honours Specialization or Honours Double Major in Political Science, Politics and International Relations, or permission of the instructor.
A one term seminar half course surveying the public policy and foreign policy challenges facing Canada as an Arctic nation. Among the topics to be covered are competing national sovereignty claims, the Arctic Council, resource politics, Aboriginal Peoples, and the nature of territorial government.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
A one term seminar half course surveying the public policy and foreign policy challenges facing Canada as an Arctic nation. Among the topics to be covered are competing national sovereignty claims, the Arctic Council, resource politics, Aboriginal Peoples, and the nature of territorial government.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science or Politics and International Relations, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
A course for students who aspire to work in government as public servants and advisors or who seek careers in the private sector which require a close understanding of the operation of government. Focus is on Canada, but other countries are considered.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year in either Political Science, Politics and International Relations, or Social Justice and Peace Studies, or Permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year in either Political Science, Politics and International Relations, or Social Justice and Peace Studies, or Permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year in either Political Science, Politics and International Relations, or Social Justice and Peace Studies, or Permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year in either Political Science, Politics and International Relations, or Social Justice and Peace Studies, or Permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year in either Political Science, Politics and International Relations, or Social Justice and Peace Studies, or Permission of the Department.
This course examines the past, present and future of Indigenous politics in Canada and around the world. It explores political, social, economic and historical issues in comparative perspective, though with a particular focus on Canada. Topics include colonialism, residential schools, self-determination and reconciliation. A goal is to examine diverse voices.
A course that examines societal concerns and possible remedies. Concerns include pay gaps, unavailable child care, student debt, the social media, challenged families, overwhelmed health care systems, and courts dividing in a way that frustrates the making of sound legal decisions affecting social issues.
Prerequisite(s):Political Science 2237E or Political Science 2537F/G, AND enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science or International Relations, or permission of the Department for students not registered in those programs.
An experiential learning class in campaign and election management using a current election as a case study. For the first half, students will work with an election campaign. The second half will examine the election outcome as a product of the campaign and the ballot structure.
Antirequisites: Political Science 4486F if taken in 2018-2019, Political Science 3315F/G if taken in 2019-2020, Interdisciplinary Studies 3991Y if taken in 2021-2022.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in third or fourth year, or permission of the Department.
An experiential learning course about Rwanda that provides students with a comprehensive overview of themes in contemporary debates about peacebuilding and reconciliation. The course combines classroom preparation in Rwanda’s history, politics, and culture, with field-study travel that brings the scholarly issues to life.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3394F, Political Science 3395G, if taken in 2017-2019.
This course traces the colonial lineage of political science and political studies through a decolonial reading of key texts. With an emphasis on the role of the academy in imperialism, racism, settler colonialism and hierarchies of intersectionality, this course examines the subfields of political science and forms of decolonial mobilization.
This course examines the most current and relevant issues political theorists are thinking about including gentrification, housing rights, historical injustice, sexism, climate change, affirmative action, and animal rights. The focus will be on developing an understanding of how to develop students’ views of these matters.
Antirequisite(s): the former Political Science 3334E.
This course will examine immigration policy and governance with a primary focus on Canada, but in comparison with other countries. Topics include immigration policy, refugee resettlement and asylum claims, temporary foreign workers, access to citizenship, and anti-immigrant sentiment.
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):Political Science 3412F/G if taken in Summer Distance Studies 2023; the former Political Science 3366E.
This course provides an overview of the topic of human rights, from its origins to its 21st century reality, to its various conceptions, theoretical notions, and instruments, looking at issues of concern, abuses and potential solutions.
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.
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.
This course will focus on the politics of race in the North American context with a view to assessing how, when and with what impact the politics of race and the institutionalization of whiteness have informed and continue to inform social, economic and political life.
The objective of this course is to introduce political science students to key ideas in cognitive science that have a bearing on the ways in which we study and explain political phenomena.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 4414F/G if taken in 2010-11 or 2011-12.
A seminar on the main approaches to, and debates about, issues of global justice in contemporary political theory. Topics may include cosmopolitan ethics, the causes of global inequality, social and economic rights, and ideas of global citizenship and national responsibility.
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 3396F/G if taken in 2004-05; the former Political Science 3397F/G if taken in 2006-07; the former Political Science 4463F/G if taken in 2010-11 or 2011-12.
Democracy is a central concept in politics. Different theoretical understandings of 'democracy' will be examined, and discussed with reference to current and practical political issues involving Canada and the United States. Related ideas include legitimacy, representation, capitalism, imperialism, liberalism, republicanism, and the state.
Does the government control the media - or do the media control the government? Do the news media educate or manipulate the citizenry? This course looks at the relationship between politics and media, and explores how media, civic engagements, and politics are intertwined, drawing on examples from around the world.
Antirequisite(s):Political Science 3360F/G, the former Political Science 3350E, or the former Political Science 4460F/G if taken in 2013-14 or 2014-15.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Honours Double Major or Honours Specialization in Political Science or permission of the Department.
This course provides an advanced introduction to some of the practical skills involved in political campaigns including lobbying/advocacy campaigns by businesses and NGOs and election campaigns. It focuses on developing specific skills related to strategy, tactics and communications using case studies and practically-oriented assignments.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 4417F if taken in 2014-15.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in Main Campus 3rd or 4th year Political Science Honours Specialization.
This course explores how globalization and the rise of the post-industrial economy are transforming North American and European cities, and compares how policy-makers respond to the resulting challenges. Topics include ethno-cultural diversity, social inequality and segregation, and the changing character and functions of downtown business districts and suburbs.
The purpose of this course is to introduces students to multilevel governance (MLG): public decision-making which involves governments at various levels and non-governmental actors. The course will look at forces conducive to this kind of decision-making structure, and in the general patterns and dynamics that it manifests.
Designed to critically assess political perspectives on contemporary issues related to the politics of cyberspace and cyber-governance, this course explores theoretical perspectives on cyberpolitics. A range of theories are examined such as decision-making procedures, the role of corporate, public and personal issues, including fake news, hacking, and international legal norms.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
Political corruption has attracted intense and growing interest in recent decades. This seminar provides a critical look at the spread of corruption across the globe, the state of our knowledge about corruption and its causes, and the performance of various national and global campaigns against corruption.
This seminar explores the welfare state as a multifaceted phenomenon, which has assumed qualitatively different forms in different places. More recently, welfare states around the world have been subjected to significant pressure, and the causes, extent, and character of change will be subject to detailed debate.
This course presents a deep treatment of the subject of women’s political leadership. The main case under study is Canada. However, reference to women’s leadership in other states helps frame the Canadian experience. A variety of methodological approaches will be engaged, including institutional, behavioural and comparative analysis.
The focus in this course is about how theories of psychology apply to explain people’s political attitudes and behaviours, in particular, how people receive, process, and use information they receive to develop, change or maintain their political attitudes and make political decisions.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
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.
The course explores contemporary international diplomacy. Topics include: foreign policy institutions, treaty-making processes, diplomatic protocol, logistics of negotiations and their influence on political outcomes, and the role of power, strategy and cultural differences. Students engage in realistic classroom simulations of multilateral negotiations, role-play diplomats and gain practical bargaining experience.
This course investigates network-centric warfare and the changing nature of 'war' from a theoretical standpoint. Students will examine the concept of 'terror' both as an historical phenomenon, and as part of a new kind of globalized phenomenon within the context of the 'global war on terror'.
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.
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.
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.
Bodies are at the core of our families, economies, and social and political institutions. This seminar course examines how social, economic, and political practices reflect habitual and legal patterns of bodily regulation and control and how individuals and movements seek to alleviate the oppressive effects of this power.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in year three or four of an Honours Specialization or Honours Double Major in Political Science, Politics and International Relations or Social Justice and Peace Studies or permission of the department.
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.
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.
This course examines threats to democratic regimes. Why do some democracies succeed while others fail? We explore theory and specific countries to address topics include the state of global democracy, the definition and measurement of democracy and the influences of economics, institutions, militaries, society and international actors on democratization.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
This course addresses the negotiation, contestation, implementation, and enforcement of international trade law. Particular emphasis will be placed on the relationship between international trade law and negotiations and ostensibly non-trade areas including health, development, aid, environment, food safety, agriculture, water, and democracy.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in year three or four of Honours Specialization or Honours Double Major in Political Science, Politics and International Relations, Economics, Sociology or Social Justice and Peace Studies or permission of the department.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
Exploration of the exciting field of international negotiation. Students will get the opportunity to hone their diplomatic skills and to examine negotiation of peace agreements that fundamentally changed the modern world. Cases are drawn from peace talks that ended deadly wars in Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe and
Middle East.
This course deals with the relationship between nationalism and conflict in societies that have historically been divided along ethnic and/or religious lines, and have experienced separatist claims, rebellion, and/or secessionist conflicts. It will also consider the challenges posed for conflict resolution and management in such societies.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year in any program at King’s.
This course deals with the problems and prospects of achieving sustainable peace and democracy in divided societies. Topics include consociational power-sharing, federalism, and other forms of territorial and non-territorial autonomy for ethnic communities. The course will also examine the involvement of third parties as mediators and guarantors of peace accords.
Prerequisite(s): 1.0 Political Science course(s) at the 1000-level and 3rd or 4th year standing in any module/program, or permission of the Department.
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.
This course aims to critically examine a number of the approaches to and difficulties with efforts in transitional justice and post-conflict social reconstruction.
This course places students with agencies and organizations in the community in order to complement classroom learning with experienced-based knowledge of how influence is exercised in public life. Students will work to satisfy both specified learning objectives and placement job requirements.
The aim of this course is to engage senior undergraduate students in analytical discussions about the institutional, political and legal origins and manifestations of the world's very first permanent international criminal court, and the role members of global civil society play in supporting the ICC.
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3395G if taken in 2023-24; Political Science 3395F if taken in 2020-21, 2021-22 or 2022-23.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the instructor for students not registered in Political Science programs.
This is a seminar course on regional politics in the Asia-Pacific region with a focus on governance issues and security-related topics in East and Southeast Asia
Antirequisite(s): Political Science 3394G if taken in 2021-22 or 2022-23.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the instructor for students not registered in Political Science programs.
This course addresses the creation and evolution of core areas of Canadian public policy including social, resource and fiscal policy. Emphasis will be placed on theories of policy creation and evolution, as well as policy evaluation. Students will explore how partisan interests, focusing events and the federal
arrangement impact policymaking.
Political communications is the study of purposeful communications around politics, including messaging by, to, and about politicians, political elites, and members of civil society. In this seminar, students will cultivate skills in crafting, critically analyzing and formally evaluating the efficacy and utility of political
communications.
This course examines the phenomena of postmodernism and postmodernity and their consequences for politics. Major themes include: debates on the nature of modernity and postmodernity; power; truth; reality; capitalism; Marxism; liberalism; feminism. Students will assess the value of postmodern thought and whether it can construct political projects worthy of support.
Prerequisite(s):Political Science 2237E and third or fourth year standing, or permission of the Department.
This course examines the nature of power, emphasizing the place and role of elites within the power structures of specific countries and institutions. Major themes include the following: theories of power; pluralism and neo-pluralism; elite theory; hegemony and class rule; corporate power; how the media
challenge or perpetuate elite views.
Prerequisite(s):Political Science 2237E and third or fourth year standing, or permission of the Department.
Utilizing various critical feminist approaches, this course examines the gendered effects of war and conflict, gendered constructions of political identity, and the gendered aspects and implications of international governance
Antirequisite(s): The former Political Science 3354F/G.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the instructor for students not registered in Political Science programs.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science, or permission of the Department for students not registered in Political Science programs.
Topic and course description will be available at time of registration.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in third or fourth year of an Honours Specialization or Honours Double Major in Political Science, Politics and International Relations, or permission of the department.
Topic and course description will be available at time of registration.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in third or fourth year of a Political Science module, Politics and International Relations, or permission of the Department.
Topic and course description will be available at time of registration.
Prerequisite(s): Enrolment in third or fourth year of a Political Science module, Politics and International Relations, or permission of the Department.
Individual reading and research at an advanced level under faculty supervision. Experiential learning in the community may form part of the course. Students are responsible for arranging independent study credit with an individual faculty member.
Prerequisite(s): Written permission of instructor and department and a minimum 80% average the previous year.
Individual reading and research at an advanced level under faculty supervision. Students are responsible for arranging independent study credit with an individual faculty member.
Prerequisite(s): Written permission of instructor and department and a minimum 80% average the previous year.
Individual reading and research at an advanced level under faculty supervision. Students are responsible for arranging independent study credit with an individual faculty member.
Prerequisite(s): Written permission of instructor and department and a minimum 80% average the previous year.
Prerequisite(s):Political Science 2237E or Political Science 2537F/G, AND enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science or International Relations, or permission of the Department for students not registered in those programs.
Prerequisite(s):Political Science 2237E or Political Science 2537F/G, AND enrolment in 3rd or 4th year Political Science or International Relations, or permission of the Department for students not registered in those programs.
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.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Diploma Program in Public Administration or permission of Department.
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.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Diploma Program in Public Administration and Political Science 4901A/B or permission of Department.
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.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Diploma Program in Public Administration or permission of Department.
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.
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Diploma Program in Public Administration and Political Science 4903A/B or permission of Department.