This two credit course has a couple of related purposes.  The first is to
introduce the history, politics and policies of the European Union (EU).
An amalgamation of fifteen European countries, the EU has the potential
to be an economic super-power.  And in its institutions, and in the
beliefs of many of its founders, the EU also promises to be an
alternative to what is seen to be the increasingly sterile and indeed
dangerous tendencies of the contemporary nation-state.  The key words, of
course, and "potential" and "promise".  We will consider briefly the
likelihood that either might be realized.

The second purpose is to prepare for and participate in the "Midwest
Model European Union" held in Indianapolis at the IUPUI campus in mid
April.  This Model EU offers students from a number of universities and
colleges the opportunity to learn how the EU works through a hands-on
simulation.  In my experience and in the experience of former students,
this simulation has been very successful (Indiana University pays for
accommodations and costs of the simulation which your modest registration
fee also helps in part to cover.)

Because of the timing of the simulation, assignments are front-loaded.
Material on the EU will be tested on an examination in late February.
Agenda papers and other EU simulation documents will be prepared during
March.  After the simulation there will be a follow-up discussion
session.  There will be no final examination or final paper.

Enrollment will be limited to sixteen or seventeen participants.  This
course may be taken twice for credit.  I urge anyone considering taking
the course/simulation to see me.  My office hours are Wednesdays 9-11 and
Thursdays 2:30-4:30.  My E-mail is Furniss, phone 855-9100.