OSHER 630 - Current Issues in American Public Affairs and Politics

Examine the behind-the-scenes details - strategies, personalities, power, and politics - that influence stories in The New York Times about American political and governmental current events. The Times provides many issues for lively discussion. In addition to The Times, The Washington Post, CNN, and National Public Radio will be our sources for breaking stories. The instructor uses news stories, videos, et cetera to seed the discussion but the seeds often grow into an entirely different topic based on student interest and participation. Students are encouraged to ask hard questions and actively and respectfully participate in class discussion.