This includes my courses on American Politics, Moot Court, AI and Democracy, Environmental Politics, and Rock Climbing.

Read on to find what books you might need for your courses!

American Politics (POLS 103)

With the midterm elections approaching, this should be an exciting time to take a course on American Politics. We will learn about the creation of our Constitution, our major political institutions, and the current polarized political environment.

1 Book for this class:

Kernell, Samuel et al. 2026. The Logic of American Politics. 12th Edition. Sage. Read the notes below.

• You must get the 12th Edition.
• Ebook Version: Important Notes to Avoid an Expensive Mistake.
  • You only need the ebook text. We will not use any of the other features the publisher sells. If you want those you can pay for them.
  • Pay attention to the rental period. If you are renting, rent right at the beginning of the term for 180 days. You want to be able to access the book through the end of finals (December 16th). The shorter rental periods are not long enough.
  • You can get the eBook version at Sage: https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/products/the-logic-of-american-politics-12-287750
• Paper Version
  • I love paper. But the paper versions of textbooks is getting ridiculously expensive. This one costs more than twice as much for a new version.
  • If you can find a used version for cheap, then totally get it if you like paper.
• Library
  • The textbook will also be on reserve at the college library. https://library.monmouthcollege.edu/coursereserves

We will have other readings on Moodle (our Learning Management System).

Moot Court (POLS 110)

This is an optional course that accompanies our fall Moot Court Competition. Students learn some basics about constitutional law and are coached for the competition. The course sessions are available to all students, regardless of whether they are enrolled.

There are no books for the course. Additional materials will be provided as part fo the class and also via Moodle (our Learning Management System).

AI and Democracy (POLS 220)

How is Artificial Intelligence reshaping democracy and the functioning of government? This course moves beyond the headlines to provide a hands-on examination of how big data, machine learning, and AI are revolutionizing political campaigns, public policy, and governance. 

1 Book for this class:

Schneier, Bruce., Sanders, Nathan E.. Rewiring Democracy: How AI Will Transform Our Politics, Government, and Citizenship. United Kingdom: MIT Press, 2025.

• Publisher website with purchase options: https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262049948/rewiring-democracy/
• Note: You can use an ebook version, but I recommend print. I will often refer to page numbers which can be annoying with ebooks.
• Library
  • This book will also be on reserve at the college library. https://library.monmouthcollege.edu/coursereserves

We will have other readings on Moodle (our Learning Management System).

Environmental Politics (ESTS/POLS 375)

What are the prospects for cooperation and conflict on environmental issues? This course explores environmental politics at the national and global levels. Along the way, students will learn how ideas, institutions, power, and strategic actions shape the political envrionment. All students also will learn how to write a policy paper.

2 Books for this class:

Barrett, Scott. 2006. Environment and Statecraft. MIT Press.

• You should be able to find this used!
• Find on any of the normal spots:
  • Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Environment-Statecraft-Strategy-Environmental-Treaty-Making/dp/0199286094
  • Thriftbooks, Alibri, etc.

Vig, Norman J. and Michael E. Kraft, Barry G. Rabe (Editors). Environmental Policy: New Directions for the Twenty-First Century. 12th Edition. CQ Press.

• You must get the 12th Edition.
• Ebook Version: Important Notes to Avoid an Expensive Mistake.
  • You only need the ebook text.
  • Pay attention to the rental period. If you are renting, rent right at the beginning of the term for 180 days. You want to be able to access the book through the end of finals (December 16th). The shorter rental periods are not long enough.
  • You can get the eBook version at Sage: https://collegepublishing.sagepub.com/products/environmental-policy-12-283481
• Paper Version.
  • I love paper. But the paper versions of textbooks is getting ridiculously expensive. This one costs more than twice as much for a new version.
  • If you can find a used version for cheap, then totally get it if you like paper. But get the right edition!
  • You can find on Amazon, Alibri, etc.
• Library
  • The textbook will also be on reserve at the college library. https://library.monmouthcollege.edu/coursereserves

We will have other readings on Moodle (our Learning Management System).

Rock Climbing (PHED 139)

This course focuses on the basics of rock climbing, including top roping/belaying, climbing techniques, and safety. 

No books required.