Political Science: General Information
Political Science is an academic discipline that includes the study
of political institutions and process, theory and philosophy, comparative
systems, international relations, as well as public policy, that dates
back to before Plato. Artistotle described it as "the master
science," because the political realm is all pervasive.
Las Positas College Department of Political Science focuses on both
domestic and international governments and politics.
Why is political science a required course for California college
students? Because we live in a "democracy"; we need to understand
how we can affect public policy; how governments work, particularly
our own; and we need to understand how we interact with the nations
of the world.
American Government at LPC (Poli 007)
is the most popular class as it helps fulfill the History and Institutions
requirement for the State of California. This course covers the structure
and functions of the American national, state, and local governments
with emphasis on the development of our republican structure and democratic
institutions.
California State and Local Government (Poli
12) teaches the organization and operation of government
and politics at the state, county and municipal level, including public
policy issues.
Comparative Governments (Poli 20)
compares and contrasts our system with others throughout the world.
Political Theory (Poli 25) introduces
many of the ancient and modern theorists and theories of government.
International Relations (Poli 30)
exames how we interact with governments around the world by studying
the political, social and economic relationships that exist. At LPC,
we have many opportunities for students to become engaged through
our on-going programs with the Northern California World Affairs Council,
(itsyourworld.org)
located in San Francisco.
The study of Political Science helps develop skills in writing and
communication, research and analysis, as well as independent and critical
thinking skills. A program of study in Political Science often leads
to law school, business and public administration careers, government
careers, journalism careers, international and trade organizations,
community organizing, electoral politics, interest group work, and
an active civic life!
