American Politics: Midterm Election 2018

Pre-requisites for enrolment

None.

Content of Course

The following topics will be discussed:

1. Background and the Evolution of American Politics.

The separation of the branches of government, and the meaning of the Constitution in real terms from the Founding Fathers to the present day.

2. Political Parties and Elections: From the 2016 Presidential Election to the 2018 Midterms.

The roots of the modern two-party system; analysing the Democratic and Republican parties, their evolution, and how to win (or lose) elections.

3. Congress: Style and Substance.

The structure, culture and roles of Senate and the House of Representatives in the American Political System; what they are designed to do and their practical place in the machinery of government.

4. The Supreme Court: Guardian of the Constitution.

A discussion of the current make-up of the Supreme Court and its roles and responsibilities beyond party politics, showcasing landmark decisions and their impact on American life.

5. The Presidency: Leadership and Role in the Modern World.

Assessing the role, powers and limitations on the President of the United States, with the evolution of the office, a look at the current incumbent and some notable predecessors.

6. The Trump Presidency: America United?

Analysis of the current President and the tasks which face the country in light of his administration, including the impetus for social change and the role of the President as a unifying force across the political spectrum.

7. Current Issues in American Politics: Interest Groups, Gun Violence, Race, Faith, Sexuality and Gender.

We will look at some of the key fault-lines in American politics and how they have evolved to examine how fair and democratic America is in real terms.

Teaching method(s)

Each class will combine lectures and group discussion, encouraging a high level of student participation and interaction.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Understand the origins of the American political system;

• Discuss the constituent parts of the American political system and the relationship between these parts;

• Demonstrate an understanding of the processes at work in the American electoral system, particularly the relation-ship between presidential elections and midterms.

Sources

Core Readings

Essential:

There is no need for students to purchase a book for this course. Materials will be provided by the tutor or available online, with links and articles provided weekly in advance of each class.

Recommended:

• McKay, D., 2013. American Politics and Society. 8th ed. Oxford: Blackwell.

• Grant, A., 2004. The American Political Process. 7th ed. London: Routledge.

• McKeever, R. and Davies, P., eds. 2012. Politics USA. 3rd ed. Harlow: Longman.

Class Handouts

Weekly handouts of updated class notes, articles, book recommendations and web-links will be provided via email in advance of each class.

Queries

If you have questions regarding the course or enrolment, please contact COL Reception at Paterson's Land by email COL@ed.ac.uk or by phone 0131 650 4400.

Student support

If you have a disability, learning difficulty or health condition which may affect your studies, please let us know by ticking the 'specific support needs' box on your course application form. This will allow us to make appropriate adjustments in advance and in accordance with your rights under the Equality Act 2010. For more information please visit the Student Support section of our website.