(Set) Democracy and Its Alternatives & Understanding the US Government

Explore the nature of democracy, and consider its possible future, in this eye-opening two-course set. Start with Democracy and Its Alternatives, in which you’ll develop a deeper understanding of how democracy has functioned across history and compare it to alternative forms of government. Then, in Understanding the US Government, explore the many institutions and intertwined political features that have developed as the theory of government designed in 1789 was put into practice.

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Tocqueville and the American Experiment

Was the greatest book on U.S. democracy ever written crafted by a Frenchman visiting this country some 175 years ago? Why would such a book be relevant in today's ever-changing political landscape? Professor William R. Cook of the State University of New York, Geneseo, leads a 24-lecture, spirited exploration of Alexis de Tocqueville and his unique observations of this young nation that resulted in Democracy in America.

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The Modern Political Tradition: Hobbes to Habermas

Liberty. Democracy. Rights. Community. Without even realizing it, we all use the fruits of political philosophy. The question is, are we using them well? The Modern Political Tradition: Hobbes to Habermas is your opportunity to navigate the labyrinth of Western political and social theory. Guided by award-winning Professor Lawrence Cahoone of the College of the Holy Cross, these 36 eye-opening lectures reveal how political philosophers, in responding to the societal problems and changing conditions of their day in revolutionary ways, created virtual blueprints of action for leaders to implement—for good or ill. You’ll gain not only the tools necessary to comprehend the omnipresent language of politics, but a thorough understanding of the wellspring of thought that has emerged over centuries of political philosophy.

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Democracy and Its Alternatives

Political science, history, and current affairs rolled into one, Democracy and its Alternatives investigates democratic government in theory and practice. With political scientist Ethan Hollander as your expert guide, you will explore democracy from all available angles with a robust toolbox of political philosophy, world history, international relations, individual case studies, and carefully constructed thought experiments.

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Understanding the US Government

By gaining a clear grasp of political institutions, we’re better equipped to engage with government and politics. In this course, you’ll explore essential topics such as how the federal bureaucracy is organized, the intricacies of Congress and the legislature, the operations of the Supreme Court, the challenge of campaign finance, the media and politics, and America’s deep political polarization.

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