Scope and Methods of Political Science

6 credits · Undergraduate

(3 hrs Seminar/Discussion) The course offers an analysis of the interrelationship among philosophy, theory and method in contemporary Politics. Emphasis in the course will be placed on the development of theoretical principles of political inquiry and the critical analysis of a variety of theoretical approaches commonly employed in Politics, such as behaviouralism, systems theory, class analysis, socialization theory and others. Restrictions: Honours Form Required. Students may not hold credit for this course and POL-4246. Requisite Courses: One 3 credit hour course in Area 2, Political Thought, or permission of the instructor [prerequisite(s)]. POL-4301 (3 or 6) Administrative Foundations of the Public Sector (3 hrs Seminar/Discussion) This course is an examination of the theoretical basis for the administrative state, including such problems as the relationship of political values to administrative decisions, the role of the career civil service in governmental policy formation, the relationship between administrative officials and private interest groups, and the protection of individual rights against administrative abuses. Attention is given to techniques and institutions designed to achieve democratic control of administrative action. Formerly titled: Administrative Theory. Restrictions: Honours Form Required. Requisite Courses: One 3 credit hour course in Area 3, Law, Public Policy and Administration or permission of the instructor [prerequisite(s)].