Introductory description

The module offers a space for thinking about how we go about conducting the academic analysis of politics. It introduces some of the core ideologies in political science, explores some of the main themes today, and considers some of the major drivers of political change. The aim is to provide students with the conceptual tools needed for more advanced study of politics in years two and three of their degrees. The module mixes theory and political practice. The assigned readings come mostly from political science and political theory, but also includes perspectives from overlapping disciplines such as sociology, economics, geography and history.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Lectures will cover topics on 'What is Politics?'; 'Power & Authority'; 'Methods of Analysis'; 'Actors, Institutions & Ideas'; 'The State'; 'Democracy & Legitimacy'; 'Political Parties & Pressure Groups'; 'Depoliticisation'; 'Ideology'; 'Conservatism'; 'Liberalism'; 'Marxism'; 'Feminism'; 'Environmentalism'; 'Post-Truth & the Media'; 'Representation & Participation'; and 'Political Change & Revolution'.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Be able to identify and discuss critically several of the main theoretical perspectives and debates in political science
• Have the knowledge foundation for more detailed and in-depth study of political theory, political processes, political institutions and political change in second and final year modules
• Be able to write appropriately constructed essays in a critical and analytical fashion
• Have developed enhanced study, independent learning, and communications skills

Indicative reading list

The general reading texts for this module are:

1. Axford, B., Browning, G. K., Huggins, R., and Rosamond, B. (2002). Politics: An Introduction, 2nd edition. Routledge, London.
2. Gamble, A. (2019), Politics: Why it Matters, Polity (available February 2019).
3. Garner, R., Ferdinand, P., and Lawson, S. (2012), Introduction to Politics. Second Edition. OUP, Oxford.
4. Goodwin, B. (2007). Using Political Ideas, 5th edition. Wiley, New York.
5. Hay, C., (2002), Political Analysis: A Critical Introduction, Palgrave, London.
6. Heywood, A. (2013), Politics, Fourth Edition. Palgrave, London.
7. Marsh, D. and Stoker, G. (2010), Theory and Methods in Political Science, Third Edition. Palgrave, London.

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Interdisciplinary

Although students are introduced to key ideologies in politics, this is supplemented with concepts from sociology, economics, geography and history.

International

This module covers themes and issues relevant to understanding the politics of many different countries in the international system.

Subject specific skills

1. Being able to identify, and analyse, the main issues and theoretical perspectives;
2. Understanding of the core concepts used by political scientists and political theorists;
3. Identify and evaluate political and policy-making processes, and the political ideologies that inform them;
4. Be able to consider the nature of and prospects for political transformation and the significance of these for the study of politics;

Transferable skills

1. Developing effective communication, both in written and spoken form, through the use of formative and assessed written work, examinations, seminar presentations and general seminar work;
2. The use of problem-solving techniques that are included in seminar work, including group work, and research for formative and assessed work;
3. The discerning use of the internet as a research tool in preparation for seminars and formative exercises;
4. Development of the techniques of argument, writing and critical thinking;
5. Working with others as part of group work exercises.