Courses

This course provides an analysis of the relationship of government policies and economic development in selected Asian, African, and Latin American countries. Topics include the role of leadership and public policy; challenges of development; obstacles to democratization; and the interaction of domestic and global political/economic structures.

An examination of ethical issues that pertain to social justice, addressing such topics as the distribution of wealth, the difference between equality and equity, the effects of globalization, and the morality of war.

Examines the causes and consequences of globalization and the transitional institutions established to cope with this process. The course examines the meaning of global governance and how this differs from governance of domestic societies. It also identifies the significant international institutions involved in global governance and assesses their contribution. The role of various international governmental and non-governmental organizations are studied in relation to such issues as global trade, the environment, human rights, economic development, and international migration.

A study of the globalization of the world economy and the political factors that shape this process. Students become familiar with the recent history of international trade, global economic relations, and the role of various players in foreign economic policy making. Using case studies of representative governments, students explore models of fiscal and monetary policy and types of trade protection. Other topics include political factors affecting emerging and transitional economies, role of trade groupings, impact of multinational corporations, negotiations in the World Trade Organization, and the problems related to global industries such as airlines or oil.

An examination of foundational ideas and problems in political life and thought. Both classical and contemporary texts are used. Concepts treated include the state, society, the citizen, democracy, liberty, equality, authority, obligation, and disobedience.

This course provides students with an overview of important themes in Canadian law: its sources, theories of jurisprudence, federalism and the courts, and how the legal framework and the Supreme Court decisions shape public discourse in Canada on political issues. Through the examination of milestone court cases, particularly Supreme Court decisions since the Charter of Rights and Freedoms (1982), the symbiotic relationship between the judiciary and the legislative branches of government are established.

The history of British Columbia from its earliest beginnings to the late 1980s. The province's move from regionalism, to provincialism, to internationalism by examining many of the social, cultural, political, and economic forces Canada. Specific aspects of BC's history that particularly enlighten us about the character of the region, its unique place in Canadian history, and how these events have shaped the Province today change which shaped the West Beyond the West in Canada.

Provides the student with a detailed examination of the political issues that divide and unite Canadians. Course topics encompass the discussion of political structures including regionalism, federalism and elections; political actors including the Executive in Canada, political parties, the media, and citizen engagement; constitutional politics including Western alienation, Quebec separatism, patriation of the constitution and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms; and key elements of Canadian political culture including political ideologies, bilingualism, multiculturalism, and Indigenous reconciliation.

An introduction to American politics, including the major branches of government: the presidency, the Congress, and the Supreme Court. The dynamics of American political institutions and their interaction. The prime emphasis is on national politics, particularly the interaction of the executive and legislative branches, including presidential decision-making.