About This Course

This course examines the separation of powers among the three branches of government in the United States, the role of federal agencies, and the influence of voters and political parties on governance. It explores the complex interactions among Congress, the presidency, and the Supreme Court, along with the consequences of their actions and policies in both domestic and foreign spheres.

At a Glance

• Institution: HarvardX
• Subject: Social Sciences
• Level: Introductory
• Prerequisites: None
• Language: English
• Video Transcript: English
• Associated Programs: XSeries in U.S. Government
• Associated Skills: Understanding of Foreign Policies
ul>

What You'll Learn

• How influence from constituencies impacts Congress members' decisions
• The roots and ramifications of political polarization
• Structural challenges within Congress that hinder widespread legislative achievements
• Expansion of presidential power through executive orders
• The comparatively unlimited realm of foreign policy open to the president
• How federal agencies manage, promote, and justify their policies
• The impact of political dynamics on Supreme Court rulings

Course Syllabus

• Week 1: Congress & Constituency - Understanding the effects of constituency on legislative behavior.
• Week 2: Congress & Party - Exploring party roles and polarization, including a case study on the 2013 government shutdown.
• Week 3: Presidents & Domestic Policy - Analyzing factors that influence presidential success in domestic policy.
• Week 4: Presidents & Foreign Policy - Examining the powers of the presidency in foreign policy, including case studies on military decisions.
• Week 5: Federal Bureaucracy - Delving into the structure and accountability of the federal bureaucracy.
• Week 6: Judiciary & Supreme Court - Assessing the judicial power and political influences on Supreme Court decisions.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for anyone interested in American politics, governance, or public administration. It is particularly beneficial for students, professionals in political science, and public service workers seeking a deeper understanding of governmental operations and political systems.

Applying What You Learn

Knowledge gained from this course can be applied in multiple real-world contexts. These include careers in law, public policy, government service, and education, as well as informing personal and professional civic engagement. Students can also use this knowledge as a strong foundation for further academic studies in political science or related fields.