PO1MOP: Politics II: Modern Politics

Module Provider:

Politics and Int Rel

Number of credits:

20 [10 ECTS credits]

Level:

C (Certificate)

Terms in which taught:

Autumn, Spring and Summer

Module Convenor:

Dr PJ Giddings

Pre-requisites:

Co-requisites:

Modules excluded:

Current from:

2005/6

Aims:
This module aims to introduce students to the study of Government and Political Theory through an analysis of various ways of thinking about democracy and a comparison of the main elements of the British and American political systems. It asks what makes democratic government desirable, and how democratic principles can be applied in practice.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:
distinguish between the principal ways of thinking about 'democracy'
identify and compare the key elements of the political system in a liberal democracy
demonstrate an understanding of the contemporary processes of government and politics in the United Kingdom and the United States of America
assess arguments relating to the effectiveness of the democratic process in the United Kingdom and the United States of America
present material, orally and in writing, in a coherent and well-structured form.

Additional outcomes:
The module aims to introduce students to learning through discussion groups.

Outline content:
The module has two complementary elements. One is concerned with the practice of government, introducing students to the origins and development of the political systems in the United Kingdom and the United States of America and comparing the key elements of their systems of government - parliament and congress; president and prime minister; elections, parties and pressure groups. In parallel with that focus on practice students will consider the theory of democracy, considering, for example, whether democratic government is always, and everywhere, the best political system and discussing such issues as the appeal of majority rule, the rights and duties deriving from democratic citizenship, the function and size of the state, the relationship between democracy and individual and minority rights, the appropriate constitutional limits on democratic authority, and the role of civil disobedience within democracy.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
16 lectures and 8 classes requiring some preparatory reading, oral presentations and written essays. 1 revision class.

Contact hours:

Assessment:
Coursework: Students will write three c1500 word essays over the Autumn and Spring terms. The marks awarded for these will constitute 20% of the overall assessment. A further 10% will be awarded in respect of class attendance.
Relative percentage of coursework : 30%
Penalties for late submission: In accordance with University policy a penalty of a reduction of ten marks to essays which are submitted up to one week after the original deadline, and a zero mark thereafter, will be applied.
Examinations: One three-hour examination paper, to be taken at the time of Part I examinations. The paper will be divided into two parts, one dealing with Government and one with Theory. Students will be required to answer three questions, at least one from each part.
Requirements for a pass: 40%
Reassessment arrangements: Re-examination in September. Coursework will be carried forward if it bears a confirmed mark of 40% or more. Otherwise it must be resubmitted by 1 September.