American Government and Politics
本课程系统考察美国政治制度的结构、运作与变迁。课程内容涵盖宪法原则、三权分立、联邦制、选举制度、政党政治、利益集团、媒体与政治、公民权利与自由、公共政策制定等核心议题。学生将深入理解美国的立法、行政、司法三大分支的权力制衡机制，以及公众舆论、选举政治和社会运动对美国政治进程的影响。
This course systematically examines the structure, operation, and evolution of the American political system. Topics include constitutional principles, separation of powers, federalism, electoral systems, party politics, interest groups, media and politics, civil rights and liberties, and public policy making. Students gain in-depth understanding of the checks and balances among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, as well as the influence of public opinion, electoral politics, and social movements on the American political process.
学生选择一个当代美国政治争议性议题（如医疗改革、枪支管制、移民政策、堕胎权等），从制度、政治文化、利益集团、政党政治等多维度进行分析。要求梳理议题的历史脉络，分析相关政治行为体的立场和策略，评估政策结果，并对美国政治制度的运作特点进行反思。论文字数约2000字。
Students select a contemporary controversial American political issue (such as healthcare reform, gun control, immigration policy, or abortion rights) and analyze it from multiple dimensions including institutions, political culture, interest groups, and party politics. The paper should trace the historical trajectory of the issue, analyze the positions and strategies of relevant political actors, evaluate policy outcomes, and reflect on the characteristics of the American political system. Approximately 2000 words.