Time Schedule:
Mark A. Smith
POL S 555
Seattle Campus
Examination of current topics in the theory and practice of American politics. Content varies according to recent developments in the field and research interests of the instructor.
Class description
Description: Religion in American politics and history. Covers the founding era, religion freedom across American history, the culture war in American politics today, political conflict over moral issues, religion in the party system, and the experiences and political orientations of Catholics, evangelical Protestants, and black Protestants. We will read and engage the work of political scientists, historians, and sociologists.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Texts: Waldman, Founding Faith; Sehat, The Myth of American Religious Freedom; McGreevy, Catholicism and American Freedom; Greeley/Hout, The Truth about Conservative Christians; Noll, God and Race in America; Putnam/Campbell, American Grace; Layman, The Great Divide; Luker, Abortion and the Politics of Motherhood; and a collection of articles and book chapters.
Class assignments and grading
Assignments: 2 papers.
Grading: Papers: 90 %; Class participation: 10 %.
