M1 American Civilization (2019-2020)

COURSE DESCRIPTION & AIMS:

The course aims at providing students with the key elements to comprehend American Politics, and the main intellectual, social, and political movements and ideas that shaped 20th and early 21^st Century America at home and its behavior abroad. Some key issues in US society are also to be dealt with. Students will be provided with basic knowledge through the study of secondary and primary sources. The final aim is to enhance students’ ability to get autonomy in critical reading, analysis, and synthesis of relevant historical and political material.

A series of short research papers will be given as assignments to students (pair works). The research topics will not be limited within the program of this year. Those short research assignments aim at consolidating the students' background knowledge in US history, politics, society, and culture.

3 hours/ week: a lecture (1h30) and a tutorial (1h30)

MASTER 1/ SEMESTER 1: “American Politics”

The US System of Government – The Idea of Democracy – The Constitution – Federalism – The Three Branches - Checks and Balances – The Law-Making process - Elections
The Role and Weight of Interest Groups in US Politics.
Political and Ideological Movements: Radicalism, Liberalism, Conservatisms, Libertarianism, etc…

MASTER 1/ SEMESTER 2: “US Domestic Issues”

African Americans in US History: Slavery, Segregation, Civil Rights, and the African American quest for equality; Contemporary Challenges.
Classes, Identity, Ethnicity, and Other Contemporary Debates in the United States of America.

EVALUATION: - 1 achievement test per semester

- 2 short tests + 1 written (research) assignment + participation (readings & discussion)