This course provides a basic introduction to politics and society in the United States of America. The United States is a democratic republic with a presidential system. Its society is a composition of diverse cultures from all around the world. Having the most powerful economy and military in the world, it must be understood and analyzed in the historical context by the students of world politics. In this course, we will explore the history, people, government, political system, society, religion, economy, and culture of the United States of America. Using these information, we will assess the position of the US in the contemporary world.
<aside> 📌 After taking this course, students are expected to:
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First half of each week’s class will be dedicated to the lectures by the instructor. In the second half, students will discuss the respective week’s topic using their readings and activities. Since class participation is an important part of students’ grading scheme, students are highly encouraged to ask and answer questions during the classes. The instructor will make use of multimedia, simulations and role playing to improve the lectures and transform them into a mutual exchange of knowledge and opinions.
If you need to discuss any matters related to the course or any other related matter, do not hesitate to stop by during the office hours of the instructor on Tuesdays between 10:00 and 12:00. If you cannot make it to the office hours of the instructor, please send an email to the instructor and ask for an appointment.
It is my philosophy that instructors should not dictate their own opinions and thoughts to students and inspire students to learn the necessary information by themselves. Instuctors must provide them a healthy environment to turn such information into knowledge. The students should be aware of the fact that merely listening to the lectures and studying their class notes just before the exams may be barely enough to pass the course but it won’t be enough to develop themselves to be knowledgeable persons, ready for postgraduation. Therefore they should finish the required readings and watch the multimedia sources and if needed, they should do their own research about related topics.
Academic Integrity Policy: Honesty and integrity are integral components of the academic process. Students are expected to be honest and ethical at all time in their pursuit of academic goals. Dishonesty will not be tolerated in this course. This includes, but is not limited to, cheating, plagiarizing, fabricating information or citations, facilitating acts of academic dishonesty by others, having unauthorized possession of examinations, submitting work of another person or work previously used without informing the instructor, or tampering with the academic work of other students. Students who are found to be dishonest will receive academic sanctions, such as an “F” grade on the assignment, exam, and/or in the course. They will also be reported to the Head of Student Affairs for possible further disciplinary action.