American Pres and Foreign Pol

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

This course will focus on the challenges and responsibilities that modern American presidents and their secretaries of state have faced with regard to the creation and execution of U.S. foreign policy. The course will provide an insider’s perspective on how major international events shape foreign policy, and explore the presidential decision-making process during crisis situations. The classes will examine the evolution of America’s leadership role in the world since the end of World War II. Students will also evaluate the effects that the Internet, the 24-hour news cycle, and instant communication between world leaders have on foreign policy. This course will cover current events, concentrate on unfolding international issues and conflicts, and engage in critical analysis of contemporary U.S. foreign policy. The course will also examine the impact of American domestic politics on presidents and their U.S. foreign policy decisions; the battle between isolationism and interventionism; and the struggle between global social justice concerns and political self-interests.