This course will provide an introduction to the study of public policy, from the perspective of political science. It begins from the premise that policymaking is an inherently political process, and seeks to demonstrate the ways in which policies are a reflection of power, values and interest groups.

The course will be divided into three parts: 1) First, we discuss basic concepts that underpin environmental policy: What is the distinction between market and polis? What are the goals of environmental policy? What are the obstacles to collective action? 2) Second, we will examine the mechanics of policymaking: how the policymaking process works, and what types of instruments are available to protect and manage the environment. 3) Finally, the last portion of the class will be devoted to examining cases of national and international environmental policy.