This seminar considers a number of controversies in American politics that can be studied with data. Topics include liberal bias in the media, the effect of capital punishment on crime, and the relationship between money and elections, among others. The course will be a small seminar and will use a discussion format. Each student will be expected to read the assigned material before class and to take turns summarizing and critiquing particular readings. Grades will be based on presentations, class discussions, and a final research paper. PSC 200 or its equivalent is a prerequisite.

This seminar considers a number of controversies in American politics that can be studied with data. Topics include liberal bias in the media, the effect of capital punishment on crime, and the relationship between money and elections, among others. The course will be a small seminar and will use a discussion format. Each student will be expected to read the assigned material before class and to take turns summarizing and critiquing particular readings. Grades will be based on presentations, class discussions, and a final research paper. PSC 200 or its equivalent is a prerequisite.