Time Schedule:
Timothy M Jones
BIS 280
Bothell Campus
Studies interaction between U.S. governmental institutions at all levels and civil society. Examines a variety of theoretical viewpoints and the relationships between private and public institutions, behaviors, and traditions.
Class description
The focus of this course is the 2008 general election, which will be held on November 4th, 2008. We will follow and critically examine the U.S. presidential race, the Washington state governor’s race, as well as some of the more important Congressional and legislative district races that will be taking place this year. Unless a recount is needed (as was the case during the 2004 Washington state Governor’s race), the various races will all be decided mid-way through the quarter, which gives us the rest of the quarter to put them in perspective. Topics to be addressed in this course include: how voters choose whether and for whom to vote; how the shape of government institutions and electoral rules influence the electoral process; the role of parties, interest groups, and the media in the electoral process; and how the 2008 election compares to prior U.S. elections and as well as recent elections in other countries.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
There are no prerequisites or background necessary for success in this course.
Class assignments and grading
