Course description

Semester 2 2015 Offering: Liberalism and Its Discontents : This course investigates liberalism as a (contested) set of principles that have structured the world we live in today. Whether as citizens of liberal-democratic states or as denizens of a global system that has been significantly shaped ¿ for better or for worse ¿ by liberal principles and practices, the impact of liberalism is hard to ignore. The course begins with consideration of liberalism in historical context, canvassing the role of foundational liberal principles such as toleration, freedom, individualism and limits on state power. This serves as a basis for consideration of continuity and change within liberal polities and the development of what has come to be called the Liberal World Order. Drawing on sources from both Political Theory and International Relations, the course will investigate the contradictions and tensions inherent in liberalism, as well as direct challenges to it, and how these play out in contemporary world politics. Advanced topics in political science, not covered in other courses, and available only under special circumstances (for example, course to be given by a visiting lecturer in a specialty area that is not usually available). Regardless of changes in the content of the course, students can only take the course once. Please contact the Senior Administrative Officer (Academic) in the School of Political Science and International Studies for information on the current topic. Semester 1 2015 Offering : Britain, Politics and Society: To coincide with the British general election in 2015, this course offers a comprehensive overview of politics and society in Britain. The course will cover a wide range of areas including: the Westminster system; national identity; devolution; political parties; the economy; the welfare state; Britain's role in Europe; and immigration. The course will give historical context and explore contemporary issues in Britain.

Archived offerings