POLI 252 - Race and Ethnicity in U.S. Politics

Examines the role of race/ethnicity in the American political system. Themes discussed include the social construction of race; the concept of racial hierarchy; racial/ethnic origins of political institutions (e.g., the Constitution); minority representation; the relationship among race, racism, and public/foreign policy; immigration and citizenship; and the role of race in campaigns. Assessment Level(s): ENGL 101 /ENGL 101A , READ 120 . Three hours each week. Formerly PS 210.

3 semester hours

Course Outcomes:
Upon course completion, a student will be able to:

Explain the nature of racial assignation.
Discuss the meanings and importance of race as a concept.
Define racism.
Analyze the system of racial/ethnic order in American politics.
Identify key events and actors that help produce this system.
Evaluate the past and contemporary impacts of racial hierarchy on the political system.
Identify the role of race in the creation and ongoing processes of prominent political institutions.
Discuss the scope and nature of minority representation in government.
Locate the nexus between racism and how policy is designed and carried out at home and abroad.
Examine key political events (past & present) that underscore this connection.
Analyze the relationship between ideas of race & ethnicity and beliefs about immigration.
Discuss the ongoing debates on illegal immigration.
Discuss the racial/ethnic implications inherent in citizenship and an “American” identity.
Analyze what it means to “play the race card” in politics.
Examine and discuss key historical examples of racial politics.
Explain how course material fits into the discipline of political science.
Distinguish among facts, opinions, and inferences.
Develop questions to clarify a problem, topic, or issue.
Organize thoughts and communicate them clearly and concisely in oral and written forms.

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