research paper (8-page, 12 point font, double spaced) required for this course. For this paper students will select one current political issue related to one of the sub-fields of Political Science (political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public policy/administration, or American government) and conduct research on that issue that apples the knowledge gained in the course to critically analyze a political topic. Critical thinking is a habit of mind characterized by the comprehensive exploration of issues, ideas, and events before accepting or formulating an opinion or conclusion. The paper will present: a) what the political issue is and what events have taken place pertaining to the issue, b) how major political forces relate to the issue, c), what does scholarly research say about the topic, d) implications and consequences: what the likely outcome for the issue is given the balance of politics and resources.