POLITICAL SCIENCE

The Rev. John Witherspoon, one of America’s most venerated Founders, captured the essence of a Reformed vision of politics and law when he declared, “In a public view, every good [citizen] is called to live and act for the glory of God, and the good of others ... under the immediate order of Providence.” The political science program exists to implement this vision; it inspires students to formulate a Christian worldview encompassing a vibrant, biblically based conception of politics and law. In particular, the program challenges students to understand Christian citizenship in light of altruism and civic virtue, to explore the nature of the state and the establishment of a political order that is good, just, and noble, and to learn about biblical virtues such as justice, righteousness, courage, mercy, and compassion. Equally important, the program encourages students to embody these virtues and to use their gifts and talents for a life of service to church, state, and society.

In keeping with the liberal arts mission of the College, the political science program consists of a traditional curriculum centered on political theory and legal studies. The program stresses the obligations of Christian citizenship and offers courses in four broad areas: political theory, American politics, law and society, and the international political order. In addition, it prepares students for a variety of careers in politics, government, and law. The political science program is enhanced greatly by the educational initiatives of the Center for Law and Culture (page 74) and an active student group known as the Law & Politics Society.