POL 550

Political Parties, Interest Groups, and Lobbying (online)

Political parties, interest groups, and the mass media have been characterized as the "transmission belts" that connect politicians to the public, as well as a vehicle for achieving political objectives. In this course, students will examine how these groups differ in their role and approaches and how they affect public opinion and political decision making. Topics include the history and development of political parties and interest groups, their relationship with governmental and non-governmental institutions, and how they have influenced and are influenced by an ever-changing political landscape.

Units: 3.0