What is the Program of Study in Politics at Saint Anselm College?
Aristotle (384-322 B.C.)
Aristotle tells us that the science of politics is “the master science in the realm of action” because politics both makes use of and gives direction to other studies. As Aristotle explains, the student of politics is in the special position of examining both universal ideas of justice and particular applications of those ideals, of combining theory with practice.
We learn about politics by studying the world and reflecting on what we have observed; such study requires empirical training and statistical literacy as well as concern for the great questions of justice and power.
We seek to help students develop the research and organizational skills (including detailed observation and analysis of data, and precise and articulate writing) that are necessary for thoughtful contribution to public life.
In the end, the study of politics involves the study of human nature as that nature is developed and expressed in particular social settings. While our students examine citizenship in the United States and elsewhere, we also wonder about the limits of politics.
Following Aristotle, our courses therefore also emphasize that work and study in politics, the life of action, should ultimately point beyond itself toward contemplation of the divine.
The program of study offered by the Department of Politics seeks to pose both the significant theoretical and practical questions of political science, and rests upon two related bases.
The first of these is to provide training in the four subfields of political science, which include American Government, International Relations, Comparative Government and Political Theory. Second, departmental courses pay attention to the normative and philosophical dimensions of politics and public policy.
Four Reasons to Major in Politics at Saint Anselm College
Location
Mary McGrory of the Washington Post recently referred to Saint Anselm College as "the Benedictine College with a box seat on America's most riveting political theater." We are most certainly in an atmosphere conducive to the study of politics and government. Located in Manchester, New Hampshire, the largest city in the state with the first-in-the-nation presidential primary, Saint Anselm College students are frequently afforded the opportunity to meet and talk to national political figures. In addition, the campus is located close to national, state and local government offices in Concord, New Hampshire and Boston, Massachusetts. The proximity to these offices has enabled many of our students to pursue career-related government internships.
Outstanding Faculty
We have an outstanding faculty with excellent academic credentials. They are active scholars, and are sincerely interested in the welfare of their students. All classes at Saint Anselm College are taught by faculty, none by teaching assistants.
A Wide Variety of Courses
Majors are able to choose from to take a wide variety of courses from each of the major subfields of political science, including courses in American Government, International Relations, Comparative Politics and Political Theory.
Student Activities in the Department of Politics
Four student clubs are associated with the Department of Politics: (1) the Political Union, (2) the International Relations Club, (3) the Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honor Society, and (4) The Simon Bolivar Club of Latin American Government and Politics. These clubs have sponsored talks, symposia, and discussions of numerous political issues. We are committed to an integration of guest speakers, symposia, and other forms of activities to complement and reinforce classroom lectures.
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