This course examines the source, scope and limits of local governmental power. It considers the relationship of local governments to state and federal government and of the relationship of local governments to the individuals and communities within and around them. Specific themes include the potential of local governments to be responsive democratic communities, the potential of local governments to become isolated or exclusive enclaves, and the effect of local governments on the metropolitan political economy. The course examines state and federal doctrine that affects local government, political/ social theory and urban planning/ development literature.