Voting and Elections

What is a fair electoral system? How have systems of voting and elections changed over time? What possibilities for reform exist? This course challenges students to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, and abuses of different electoral systems, past and present, and to consider proposed improvements. Topics may include representation, gerrymandering, disenfranchisement, voter suppression, fraud, and reforms such as ranked choice voting. The course will involve a blend of mathematical analysis, historical context, and political theory.