GOVT-390 Politics of Silicon Valley

In addition to its vast economic and cultural influence, Silicon Valley has become increasingly important to American politics. For example, social media platforms have become major sources of political information (and misinformation); tech billionaires are investing massive amounts of money in American elections and lobbying the government for favorable regulations; various thinkers and intellectuals from or associated with the tech industry are gaining prominence and influence in the broader culture; and, finally, the race for AI supremacy has become a key focus of government policy. This course will examine the distinctive politics of Silicon Valley and its increasing influence on American and global politics.

Maximum Enrollment

Writing-Intensive (18)

(Writing Intensive.)

Credits

1

Prerequisite

GOVT-116 or GOVT-117, plus one 200-level course in Political Theory or American Politics, or consent of the instructor.