This course surveys the background, constitutional principles, organization, and operation of the
American political system. Topics include the U. S. Constitution, federalism, civil liberties, civil rights,
political parties, interest groups, political campaigns, voting behavior, elections, the presidency,
bureaucracy, Congress, and the justice system. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and
explain relationships among the basic elements of American government and function as more informed
participants of the American political system.