Course Syllabus

Compared to other countries, the United States constitutional system gives a lot of authority to state and local governments. Proponents of this system of federalism argue that states and cities avoid “one size fits all” national policy and bring citizens closer to their policymakers. Opponents, on the other hand, suggest that federalism hinders progress on civil rights and empowers corporations and the wealthy. In this course, we will investigate the causes of the American system of federalism, and the consequences of this system of government.

The primary goal of the course are to help students become more critical, sophisticated observers and participants in American politics.

Full syllabus in PDF: Grumbach_State_Local_Syllabus_2021.pdf