A commonsensical survey of rational theories of politics, comprised of four segments: (1) individual choice, (2) group choice, (3) collective action, and (4) institutions. The underlying theme is that politics may be described and understood in terms of rational, goal-seeking behavior by citizens, politicians, bureaucrats, and interest groups in various institutional settings. Students are encouraged to think deeply and with sophistication about current events, history, and public life generally, as well as to analyze the...
Co-taught with Professor Jeffry Frieden, this seminar explores the role of political institutions in the formation, implementation, and regulation of economic policy. We examine research traditions in the positive theory of political institutions, and in comparative and international political economy, and apply them to several substantive issue areas.