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U.S. Political Institutions

Congress, Presidency, Courts, and Bureaucracy

5.0 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star
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Thomas E. Patterson

How do the three branches of government operate? How is power shared among Congress, the president, and the Supreme Court? What role is played by federal agencies that have no direct constitutional authority oftheir own?

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How do the three branches of government operate? How is power shared among Congress, the president, and the Supreme Court? What role is played by federal agencies that have no direct constitutional authority oftheir own?

In this part of our series on American Government, we will examine the separation of powers among the three branches of government, and the role of voters, political parties, and the broader federal bureaucracy. We’ll explore how “the people” affect the behavior of members of Congress, what constitutes success in a president’s domestic and foreign policies, and how much power an unelected judiciary should have in a democratic system.

What you'll learn

  • How Congressmembers are influenced by their constituencies
  • What causes political polarization between Republicans and Democrats
  • How Congress’s structure limits progress on significant issues
  • How executive orders expand the powers of the presidency
  • Why presidents are less constrained in foreign policy than in domestic policy
  • How federal agencies promote and protect their programs
  • The influence of politics on Supreme Court decisions
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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How congressmembers are influenced by their constituencies
  • What causes political polarization between republicans and democrats
  • How congress’s structure limits progress on significant issues
  • How executive orders expand the powers of the presidency
  • Why presidents are less constrained in foreign policy than in domestic policy
  • How federal agencies promote and protect their programs
  • The influence of politics on supreme court decisions

Syllabus

Week 1: Congress & Constituency In this session, we will examine how their constituencies affect the behavior of members of Congress, including their influence on the type of bills that members are most likely to support. The 2014 farm bill will be used to highlight constituency influence.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the structure and operation of the federal bureaucracy
Taught by Thomas E. Patterson, a renowned scholar of American politics
Develops key concepts and models in the field of American government
Provides a comprehensive overview of the three branches of government and their roles
Offers insights into the political dynamics and processes that shape government decision-making
Suitable for students with a strong interest in American politics and government

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive us political institutions overview

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and insightful overview of the core U.S. political institutions: Congress, the Presidency, the Judiciary, and the Bureaucracy. Many students found the content to be highly informative and the lectures engaging, particularly appreciating the use of relevant case studies to illustrate complex concepts. The course is often described as providing a solid foundation for understanding how the U.S. government operates. While some reviews highlight the course's academic depth as a positive, a few suggest that the readings can be extensive, potentially requiring a significant time commitment. Overall, the sentiment is strongly positive, indicating that the course successfully delivers on its learning objectives.
Real-world examples enhance understanding.
"The case studies used throughout the course were highly relevant and helped to illustrate the concepts discussed in the lectures..."
"Applying the theories to real historical events made the material much more concrete and easier to grasp."
"Case studies like the government shutdown and Citizens United were particularly insightful."
Builds a strong understanding of fundamentals.
"This course provided me with a really solid foundation for understanding the complexities of US political institutions."
"I now have a much clearer understanding of the checks and balances and the roles of each branch."
"Great for getting a fundamental grasp of how the US government is structured and functions."
Instructors present material clearly and effectively.
"The lectures were incredibly well-structured and the professors explained complex topics in a clear and engaging manner."
"I appreciated the clarity of the lectures. They made the material easy to follow and understand."
"Excellent lectures that kept me interested throughout the course. The delivery was spot on."
Detailed coverage of key institutions.
"This course provided a comprehensive overview of the core U.S. political institutions. The coverage of each branch and the bureaucracy was thorough..."
"I found the content to be incredibly detailed and insightful, offering a complete picture of how the government functions."
"Covers Congress, Presidency, Courts, and Bureaucracy effectively. A solid introduction to the structure and operation of US government."
Supplemental readings can be substantial.
"While the lectures were great, the amount of required reading felt quite heavy at times, requiring extra dedication."
"Some of the supplementary readings were very long and dense, adding a significant workload."
"Be prepared for extensive readings outside of the lecture content."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in U.S. Political Institutions: Congress, Presidency, Courts, and Bureaucracy with these activities:
Review key concepts in political science
Strengthen your foundational knowledge in political science by reviewing key concepts and theories.
Browse courses on Political Theory
Show steps
  • Identify areas where you need to refresh your knowledge.
  • Review your notes and textbooks from previous coursework.
  • Seek out additional resources such as online articles or videos.
Identify and connect with individuals in the field of American government or political science
Expand your professional network and gain valuable insights by connecting with experts in the field.
Show steps
  • Attend conferences and events related to American government or political science.
  • Reach out to professors, researchers, or practitioners in the field.
  • Utilize social media platforms such as LinkedIn to connect with professionals.
  • Attend office hours or schedule meetings to introduce yourself and express your interest.
Track and analyze the progress of a current legislative bill
Stay engaged with current political events and gain insights into the legislative process by tracking the progress of a bill that interests you.
Show steps
  • Identify a bill that you are interested in following.
  • Research the bill and its sponsors.
  • Monitor the bill's progress through the legislative process.
  • Analyze the bill's chances of becoming a law.
  • Share your findings and analysis with others.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Simulate a congressional hearing on a proposed bill
Gain practical experience in the legislative process by simulating a congressional hearing on a proposed bill of your choice.
Show steps
  • Choose a proposed bill that interests you.
  • Research the bill and its potential impact.
  • Identify stakeholders and their positions on the bill.
  • Prepare opening statements and questions for witnesses.
  • Role-play the hearing, taking on the perspectives of different stakeholders.
Participate in a group discussion on the role of political parties in American politics
Gain diverse perspectives and deepen your understanding of the role of political parties in shaping American politics through group discussions.
Browse courses on Political Parties
Show steps
  • Join or form a study group with other students.
  • Prepare talking points and research on the topic.
  • Engage in respectful and informed discussions.
  • Summarize key insights and takeaways.
Analyze Supreme Court case study: Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission
Reinforce your understanding of the influence of politics on Supreme Court decisions by analyzing the landmark case Citizens United v. FEC.
Browse courses on Judicial Power
Show steps
  • Read the case summary and opinion of Citizens United v. FEC.
  • Identify the key arguments presented by both sides.
  • Analyze the Court's reasoning and holding.
  • Discuss the implications of the decision for campaign finance and political speech.
Develop an infographic explaining the structure and powers of the federal bureaucracy
Deepen your understanding of the complex structure and powers of the federal bureaucracy by creating a visual representation.
Browse courses on Separation of Powers
Show steps
  • Gather information on the different agencies, departments, and commissions that make up the federal bureaucracy.
  • Identify key powers and responsibilities of each agency.
  • Organize the information into a visually appealing infographic.
  • Include clear explanations and examples.
Write a research paper on the impact of executive orders on presidential power
Conduct in-depth research and analysis on the impact of executive orders on presidential power, solidifying your understanding of the complex relationship between the executive and legislative branches.
Show steps
  • Choose a specific topic related to executive orders and presidential power.
  • Conduct thorough research using credible sources.
  • Develop a thesis statement and outline your paper.
  • Write a well-organized and evidence-based paper.
  • Proofread and edit your paper carefully.

Career center

Learners who complete U.S. Political Institutions: Congress, Presidency, Courts, and Bureaucracy will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Political Scientist
Political Scientists need a comprehensive understanding of the political system to be successful. This course provides an overview of the structure and function of the three branches of the U.S. government. It will provide you with a foundation for conducting research and teaching about American politics.
See salaries and explore the career path for Political Scientist
Legislator
Legislators need to understand how the government works to be successful. This course focuses on the structure and function of the three branches of the U.S. government. By learning how the government works, you may make better decisions and be a more effective legislator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Legislator
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts need to understand the policymaking process to be successful. This course introduces how Congress, the Presidency, and the Courts participate in making policy. The course provides a foundation for understanding how proposals become laws, regulations, and court rulings. The course may be particularly helpful if you work for a government agency or non-profit organization.
See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst
Teacher
Teachers may teach about U.S. political institutions at the high school or college level. This course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the structure and function of the three branches of government. It will also help you develop the skills you need to teach effectively about American politics.
See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher
Government Relations Manager
Government Relations Managers need to understand the government and its processes to be successful. This course covers the structure and function of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the U.S. government. It will provide you with a base for understanding how laws are made, how regulations are developed, and how court decisions are reached.
See salaries and explore the career path for Government Relations Manager
Lobbyist
Lobbyists need to understand how the government works to be successful. This course focuses on the structure and function of the three branches of the U.S. government. By learning how the government works, you can better understand how to advocate for your clients' interests.
See salaries and explore the career path for Lobbyist
Nonprofit Executive Director
Nonprofit Executive Directors need to understand the government and its processes to be successful. In this course, you will explore how legislation, executive orders, and court decisions can impact the work of nonprofits. This knowledge will be important for developing effective strategies and programs for your organization.
See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Executive Director
Political Consultant
Political Consultants need to understand the political system to be successful. This course focuses on the structure and function of the three branches of the U.S. government. By learning how the government works, you may be able to make better recommendations to your clients or employer. The course may be particularly helpful if you work for clients that lobby the government.
See salaries and explore the career path for Political Consultant
Researcher
Researchers may research various aspects of U.S. political institutions. This course can provide a foundation for understanding the political system and how it functions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Researcher
Public relations manager
Public Relations Managers need to understand the media and public opinion to be successful. This course introduces how political polarization influences media coverage and public sentiment. You will learn how political institutions interact with the media and public, and how this impacts the public's perception of government.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public relations manager
Journalist
Journalists need to understand how the political system works to be successful. This course provides an overview of the structure and function of the three branches of the U.S. government. By learning how the government works, you will be better equipped to write accurate and informative articles about politics and public policy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist
Sociologist
Sociologists may research and write about the social and political behavior of individuals within U.S. political institutions. This course can introduce you to the political system and provide a foundation for understanding how it influences social behavior.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sociologist
Historian
Historians may research and write about the history of U.S. political institutions. This course can provide a foundation for understanding how these institutions have evolved over time and how they have shaped American history.
See salaries and explore the career path for Historian
Economist
Economists may research the economic impact of government policies. This course will provide you with a better understanding of how the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government make and implement policies that can have a significant impact on the economy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Economist
Lawyer
Lawyers may work in the public sector or represent clients with matters involving the government. This course can provide a better understanding of U.S. political institutions. This can be particularly helpful if you plan to practice law in areas such as constitutional law, administrative law, or criminal law.
See salaries and explore the career path for Lawyer

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in U.S. Political Institutions: Congress, Presidency, Courts, and Bureaucracy.
Cover image
Informing the News
Save
This book, written by the instructor of the course, offers a detailed analysis of the challenges facing Congress and proposes reforms to improve its effectiveness.
Informing the News: The Need for Knowledge-Based...
Paperback
$$
Informing the News
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Congress and Its Members
Save
Offers a contemporary perspective on the fonctionnement of Congress, including the influence of partisanship and interest groups.
Congress and Its Members
Paperback
$$$$
Congress and Its Members
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Presidents, Populism, and the Crisis of Democracy
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the structure, powers, and accountability of the federal bureaucracy.
Presidents, Populism, and the Crisis of Democracy
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Development of the American Presidency
Save
This classic work provides insights into the informal powers and influence of the presidency.
The Development of the American Presidency
Paperback
$$$
The Development of the American Presidency
Paperback
$$$
The Development of the American Presidency
Paperback
$$$
The Development of the American Presidency
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
The Vital Center
Save
Provides a historical perspective on the growth of presidential power, particularly in the area of foreign policy.
The Vital Center: Politics of Freedom
Paperback
$$$$
An Unfinished Love Story
Save
This Pulitzer Prize-winning biography of Theodore Roosevelt provides insights into the role of the presidency in shaping domestic and foreign policy.
An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the...
Hardcover
$$
An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Taking Back the Constitution
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Examines the role of courts in American society and their impact on public policy.
Taking Back the Constitution
Paperback
Check
Taking Back the Constitution
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Bureaucracy
Save
Examines the role of bureaucracy in modern government and its implications for public policy.
Bureaucracy
Paperback
Check
Bureaucracy
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
We the People, Volume 1
Save
Examines the growth and influence of the federal bureaucracy, and its implications for democratic governance.
We the People, Vol. 1: Foundations
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
The U.S. Supreme Court: A Very Short Introduction
Save
This concise guide provides an overview of the history, structure, and decision-making process of the Supreme Court.
The U.S. Supreme Court: A Very Short Introduction...
Paperback
$$
The U.S. Supreme Court: A Very Short Introduction...
Paperback
$$
The U.S. Supreme Court: A Very Short Introduction...
Kindle Edition
$
The U.S. Supreme Court: A Very Short Introduction...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
American Foreign Policy Since World War II
Save
Provides a critical perspective on the challenges facing the presidency in the modern era.
American Foreign Policy Since World War II
Paperback
$$$$
American Foreign Policy Since World War II
Kindle Edition
$$$

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Course image
Rating
5.0 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star
Effort
2 to 4 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Harvard University
Instructor
Thomas E. Patterson
Language
English
Transcript
English
This course belongs to a collection called U.S. Government. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Citizen Politics in America: Public Opinion, Elections, Interest Groups, and the Media
  2. American Government: Constitutional Foundations
  3. U.S. Public Policy: Social, Economic, and Foreign Policies
  4. U.S. Political Institutions: Congress, Presidency, Courts, and Bureaucracy (viewing)
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the structure and operation of the federal bureaucracy
Taught by Thomas E. Patterson, a renowned scholar of American politics
Develops key concepts and models in the field of American government
Provides a comprehensive overview of the three branches of government and their roles
Offers insights into the political dynamics and processes that shape government decision-making
Suitable for students with a strong interest in American politics and government
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