POLS 4317 Minority Representation in U.S. Political Institutions
This course will focus on minority representation (African Americans and Hispanics) in the context of legislative institutions including the U.S. Congress, state legislatures, and city councils and school boards. Students will learn concepts including descriptive and substantive representation as well as the benefits and costs of either forms of representation. Students will become familiar with research that highlights the debate regarding the merits of majority-minority districts, consequences of descriptive representation, and alternative solutions for ensuring that the minority interests are heard and pursued.