POLS 115

Democratic Theory

Introduction to basic questions of democracy. Draws on classical and contemporary writings to explore what democracy means and various forms of democratic government, politics, and culture: direct, representative, liberal, republican, pluralist, elitist. Specific topics may include: definitions of democracy, justifications for democracy, arguments for increasing or limiting democratic participation, tasks of political representatives, democratization of social institutions, and the relationship between globalization and democracy.

Units: 3.0