PLSC 3020 - The US Congress and the Legislative Process

5 credit hours
The legislative branch is the most democratic of all the parts of our federal and state government, but it also tends to be the most despised of the institutions. This class will explore the dichotomy between being the body closest to the people as well as being its least-liked. We do so in order to clutivate a greater understanding in what Congress really is, why it does what it does, and how an individual could (or could not) effect action within the body. To achieve this end we will study the theory and research on congressional structures and legislator psychology. However, we will also strive to “walk a mile in their shoes” with a simulated Senate.