The primary aim of this course is to assist the student/citizen in the development of a set of skills which can be helpful in analyzing political situations in the world today. In order to accomplish this objective, the student will be introduced to the basic approaches, perspectives, techniques and models of the political scientist. Accordingly this course covers some universal aspects of political stability and change, ideologies, conflicts, institutions, political economy, and issues. (Does not meet American Institutions requirement.) (C-ID POLS 150) (CSU/UC) (AA/AS-D, CSU-D, IGETC-4)