Course Topics

1. Basic design of the American constitutional system and political parties

The origins of American political parties; the American two-party system; the party structures and functions

Tuesday, March 10

2. Permeability and stability of the party system

Alignments and realignments, their stability and change; party identification

Tuesday, March 10

3. The challenges for third parties

Third parties, their successes and failures; Ralph Nader, Ross Perot; independent candidates

Thursday, March 12

4. The Tea Party as a faction

Republican Party and its development; party platform; grass root movement; Tea Party

Thursday, March 12

5. Nominations and candidates: the role of parties

State and local nominations; presidential nominations; money, media, minions

Tuesday, March 17

6. Polarization in the electorate

Issues and values; polarization and dysfunctional government

Tuesday, March 17

7. Elections of 2010, 2012, 2014: lessons the parties learn

Thursday, March 19

8. Looking forward to 2016; final test

Thursday, March 19