The Cline Challenge Courses

In Fall 2009, the Cline Center is introducing three year-long seminars, available by invitation only, to undergraduates at the University.

PS 499: Social Group Conflict across the Globe: Trends and Patterns in the Post WWII Era.  Despite centuries of efforts to address social group strife, conflicts rooted in racial, ethnic, religious and tribal groupings continue to emerge in every type of society in every region of the world. More research is needed. After an introduction, using the Social, Political and Economic Events Database (SPEED), students will apply a protocol to code media reports about events and then develop an independent research project.  The project is part of the Societal Infrastructure and Development Project of the Cline Center for Democracy.

Students are expected to enroll in a follow-on session taught in Spring, 2010.     CRN: 54408

PS 499: Climate Change and Societal Stability.  Security threats from climate-induced episodes of instability in regions with fragile ecosystems are increasingly  worrisome as global climate change becomes manifest.  Little is known about destabilizing security impacts of past or current climatic change. More research is needed.  After an introduction, using the Social, Political and Economic Events Database (SPEED), students will apply a protocol to code media reports about events and then develop an independent research project.  The project is part of the Societal Infrastructure and Development Project of the Cline Center for Democracy.

Students are expected to enroll in a follow-on session taught in Spring, 2010.    CRN: 54406