Dr. Michael W. Frank
POSC 3181 - 3 hrs.
Semester II, 2008-2009
Why is turnout higher in some states than in others?
Why do we hear about ballot initiatives in states like California, but not Indiana? Why do some states limit participation in primaries to citizens registered with a party, while others conduct open primaries? Why do some states have no income tax and others no sales tax? Why does Nebraska have a unicameral legislature? Why is gay marriage permitted in some states but prohibited in others? These questions and a host of related ones point to the tremendous diversity of political institutions, processes, and policies that exist across the states.This course offers a comparative analysis of state government. The course is divided into four sections. We will begin by examining political culture with the intention of using cultural differences across states to explain the diversity of political, institutional, and policy environments in which they operate. Our attention will then turn to the political and institutional environments. We will examine state elections, the roles played by parties and interest groups, the structures of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of state governments, and the administrative structures of the states. We will then examine the policy environment in which states operate. Indeed, we will focus on some of the most pressing policy issues facing the states and identify the ways in which states have attempted to deal with them. Finally, we will focus on the nature of our federal system and intergovernmental relations, looking specifically at the relationship of the state governments to the national government and the relationships among the states.
Take some time to familiarize yourself with this web site. The links to the left provide you with some basic information about the course: the texts, the course objectives, the requirements, and the class schedule. You will also find information about my policies, how I grade, how to contact me, and what I expect in terms of your writing.
If you are an athlete who has athletic events that conflict with this class, please come see me during the first week of classes so that I am aware of them and you understand how that might affect your performance in the class.
If you have a special problem that might affect your performance in the class, please come see me during the first week of classes. Appropriate arrangements can be made to work closely with the Office of Disabled Student Services or a tutor.
Last Modified: 01/13/09