84-101 Introduction to Political Science

9 units, Carnegie Mellon University

This course teaches the foundational concepts necessary to understand and participate in politics. It is important to those who want to study political science and international relations as a discipline, but also to those who just want frameworks for understanding governance, power, and advancing the common good. Beginning with an examination of the modern state, it addresses fundamental questions such as: What is sovereignty? How do we distinguish democratic rule, authoritarianism, and totalitarianism? When did socialism, communism, fascism, and liberalism emerge, and what do they mean? How does secular government differ from theocracy? Why are the concepts of national self-determination and spheres of influence clashing today? What are the causes of wars and revolutions? What are global norms and international law? And how can we use our understanding of power and governance to build a better world?

Prerequisites: none listed

Offered: Fall 2026, Fall 2025

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