Time Schedule:
Darryl Norman Johnson
SIS 423
Seattle Campus
Develops familiarity with tools available to promote international objectives of the United States. International case studies selected to illustrate the diverse considerations inherent in the policy process and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the national institutions involved. Prerequisite: SIS 201.
Class description
This course assesses the formulation and execution of American foreign policy from the standpoint of senior policy officials. It addresses the roles of the President and cabinet officers, the Congress, the media and various interest groups. It seeks to balance discussion of historic context with consideration of real decisions and real controversies, starting with the origins of the Cold War and continuing to the Second Iraq War and the War of Terror. It examines in detail the most effective tools to accomplish the stated objectives in different crises: diplomatic persuasion, economic pressure/sanctions, information and assistance programs, covert action and military power. It weighs how human rights and values, democratization and free markets, domestic politics, free media and cultural exchanges affect the policy process. It assesses the importance of alliance relationships, the role of the UN and other multilateral institutions, NGOs and public opinion. The course is taught by the case study method. Students examine key foreign policy decisions since the end of World War II to understand how and why they were made as they were, and to probe realistic alternatives. They also examine how the foreign policy process, including the institutional framework, has evolved over that period. The instructor provides context and facilitates discussion.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
The course is taught by the case study method. Students examine key foreign policy decisions since the end of World War II to understand how and why they were made as they were, and to probe realistic alternatives. They also examine how the foreign policy process, including the institutional framework, has evolved over that period. The instructor provides context and facilitates discussion.
Recommended preparation
Prerequisite: SIS 201. Recommended: Junior standing and SIS 200, 201 and 202
Class assignments and grading
Grading based on participation, five 2-page case memoranda, and a final policy paper (10-12 pages).
See above.
