Module Provider: |
Politics and Int Rel |
Number of credits: |
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Level: |
H (Honours) |
Terms in which taught: |
Autumn, Spring and Summer |
Module Convenor: |
A
Behnke |
Pre-requisites: |
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Co-requisites: |
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Modules excluded: |
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Module version for: |
2007/8 |
Aims:
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Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is intended that the student will be able to
demonstrate the ability to critically reflect upon the basic theoretical assumptions underlying different definitions of security;
analyse and evaluate the role of culture and identity in international security, the critical role of sovereignty and security in the creation of political order, and the problems involved in the securitisation of new areas, such as migration, economy and environment; (that last bit is not clear)
appreciate the way in which different conceptions of the Political underlie prevailing approaches to security.
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Additional outcomes:
The module also aims to develop critical and reflective thinking, effective and independent use of a variety of sources, coherent and rigorous written and oral argumentation, and the ability to work with and learn from other participants of the course. |
Outline content:
This module provides an introduction into the growing field of Critical Security Studies. It is made up of two parts. Part I presents an overview over the theoretical and philosophical arguments in support of a critical investigation of the basic assumptions underlying often taken-for-granted definitions of security. In particular the securitisation of various referent objects of security such as the state, the environment, and society will be critically evaluated.
Part II presents a number of case studies that present central insights and demonstrate the different possibilities for empirical research within Critical Security Studies. The case studies will focus amongst others on the construction of national identities, on the ‘othering’ of different cultural groups, and on the securitisation of non-traditional issue areas.
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Brief description of teaching
and learning methods:
The course begins with an introductory lecture session and continues with several 2 hour seminars each term for which students are required to read in preparation. Students will make one seminar presentation per term which will serve as the basis for a structured group discussion. Each student will also participate in one team presentation in the second term. Two hours revision. |
Contact hours:
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Autumn |
Spring |
Summer |
| Lectures |
1 |
1 |
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| Tutorials/seminars |
5 x 2 hrs |
7 x 2 hrs |
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| Practicals |
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| Other contact (eg study visits) |
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2 hrs revision classes |
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| Total hours |
11 |
15 |
2 |
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| Number of essays or assignments |
1 |
1 |
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| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
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Assessment:
Coursework
Students will write one essay of approximately 3000 words each term on a selected topic, which must be submitted by the last day of each term. Where all the required essays are submitted the best/better mark will count for 25% of the final mark. Non-submitted essays will be awarded a mark of zero and the coursework mark will be an average of all the essay marks awarded.
Relative percentage of coursework : 25%
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 deadlines, and a zero mark thereafter, will be applied.
Examinations: One three-hour examination.
Requirements for a pass: 40% overall and a mark of not less than 35% in the examination.
Reassessment arrangements: Re-examination in August/September. Coursework will be carried forward if it bears a confirmed mark of 40% or more. Otherwise it must be resubmitted by 1 August.
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