PSC 107, Introduction to Positive Political Theory
Stu Jordan
Spring 2007
This course introduces students to some of the major topics studied in Positive Political Theory (PPT). In addition, students will gain entry-level competence in the major analytical tools employed in PPT--decision theory, social choice theory, and game theory. The course covers four prominent applications of PPT: preference aggregation and voting, electoral competition and electoral systems, legislative voting and organization, and separation of powers.Readings:
There are two required books, both available at the university bookstore, or through any on-line bookseller:Requirements:In addition, there is a book excerpt to be read as background before the first day of class. Copies of this reading are available on reserve at Rush Rhees library.
- Shepsle and Boncheck (1997) "Analyzing Politics". W.W. Norton and Co.
- Dixit and Nalebuff (1991) "Thinking Strategically". W.W. Norton and Co.
How to Succeed in this Class:Each exam counts towards 30% of your grade. Problem sets account for 10%.
- Exams. There are 3 in-class exams, scheduled February 19, March 28, and May 2. No make-up or late exams will be offered. There is no final exam.
- Problem Sets. There are 3 problem sets handed out during the semester. The deadline for each problem set is listed on the syllabus. You are encouraged to collaborate with other students on problem sets, but each student must turn in their own work in order to get credit. Note that problem sets are due at the beginning of the lecture on the due date. Because the answers to the problem sets are reviewed during that lecture, late problem sets are not accepted.
Schedule:First of all, this document and all problem sets will be posted at the course website: http://mail.rochester.edu/~sjordan/teaching/intro_ppt/index.html. You should use the website to make sure you are aware of all due dates.
Second, because of its reliance on mathematical tools, PPT is a practical subject that is best learned by doing. Therefore, the best preparation for the exams is to work hard on the problem sets. Note that the lecture before each exam will be devoted to going over the answers to the problem sets. Come to these lectures prepared to clear up issues that you do not understand.
The course meets Mondays and Wednesdays 12:30 to 1:45. In what follows "SB" refers to Shepsle and Bonchek "Analyzing Politics", and "DN" refers to Dixit and Nalebuff "Thinking Strategically".