(Un)Fair Representation: Gerrymandering & the Political Process
University Curriculum: University Curriculum
CRN: 14278
Credits: 0
“Gerrymandering” is the widely-used term to describe the drawing of political district boundaries in such a way as to favor one political party or group of individuals. In the United States, individual states’ redrawing of congressional district lines have provoked increasing ire as the results of congressional elections diverge from the popular vote. However, gerrymandering also occurs in many other countries. In this course, we will look at the history and practice of redistricting, the role of the census, different structures of political representation, methods of apportionment and voting, and the various legal and analytical tools that measure gerrymandering. The course will be centered on how mathematics and quantitative methods can measure the effects of gerrymandering and systems of representation, while suggesting solutions for fairer institutional processes and policies. We will discuss these topics in the context of how the structure of electoral and government systems affects the functioning of democracy. [This ULEC is in category 1, Tools for Social Change.]
College: University Curriculum (UL)
Department: University Curriculum (UNIV)
Campus: New York City (GV)
Course Format: Lecture (L)
Modality: In-Person
Max Enrollment: 44
Add/Drop Deadline: February 4, 2024 (Sunday)
Online Withdrawal Deadline: April 16, 2024 (Tuesday)
Seats Available: Yes
Status: Closed*
* Status information is updated every few minutes. The status of this course may have changed since the last update. Open seats may have restrictions that will prevent some students from registering. Updated: 3:14pm EDT 4/26/2024