liberalism, conservatism, and nationalism as a point of departure

Employing your Assignment 1 discussion of liberalism, conservatism, and nationalism as a point of departure, select THREE (3) significant examples found in the political constitutions of either Mexico OR the United States of America OR Canada that demonstrate a link between one or more of these ideologies and the historical development of the constitution. (In the case of Mexico, anti-liberal ideologies may also be referenced.) Where possible, show that the political principles of constitutional founders were a key element in shaping your examples.

All students will write a research mini-paper of a minimum of 1000 and a maximum of 1250 words. In writing your essay, it is important to remember that your intended “audience” is not the instructor, but rather another first or second year University student who has no previous background in this topic. Be careful, then, to explain all your terms and concepts, making no assumption that the reader is already conversant in your subject.

Students will focus their research by working outwards from your course lecture notes (do not cite) and your textbook’s required readings as set out in the course outline. Students must also consult and reference relevant academic commentary from at least 4 (four) additional, appropriate scholarly sources (scholarly journals, monographs, textbooks.) Students are reminded that approximately 20 supplementary texts relevant to various aspects of our curriculum have been placed on two hour reserve in the Library under PSCI 1100 – http://catalogue.library.carleton.ca/search/r

Bibliographies and footnotes are necessary, and proper citation format must be employed. Consult Kate L Turabian, A manual for writers of research papers, theses, and dissertations: Chicago style for students and researchers. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2007. This widely-used manual can be consulted at the Library 2nd Floor Research Desk – LB2369 .T8 2007 – or can be purchased from the University Bookstore. Students also have access, through the Library portal, to RefWorks, a web based citation manager. http://www.library.carleton.ca/services/refworks