R. Reese, Cal Poly Pomona, Political Science Department

Social Science Synthesis (D4)

PLS 382: POLITICS, POLICIES, POP CULTURE

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course examines such political issues as voting behavior among youth and the significance of congressional oversight committees in monitoring youth behavior. The communication component will explore the impact of mass media institutions on society. More specifically, this component will examine the impact of film, television, music, and video games on youth behavior. The ethnic and gender studies component of this course will examine topics regarding race and gender. Black masculinity, female exploitation, and homosexuality will be discussed in the context of popular culture.

OBJECTIVES

At the end of this course students should:

1) Be able to examine the fusion of politics, public policies, and popular culture

2) Understand the regulatory function of Congress in monitoring lewd behavior

3) Have a broad perspective of contemporary issues in public policy

4) Be able to identify fundamental features of the policymaking proces

5) Have a substantial understanding of the causes and consequences of policy decisions

EVALUATION

I. --10% Class Participation (attendance, active participation in discussions…does not necessarily mean talking, but being alert and attentive--doing homework and participating in mock exercises)

II. --10% 5-6 Page Paper (double spaced)

III. --30% Midterm Exam

IV.-- 20% Group Project--Oral & Written Presentation (short documentaries)

V. --30% Final Exam

Film Reviews: Menace II Society, 8 Mile, 2 Pac Resurrection, Crash