Undergraduate Degrees
BA History and Politics ( VL12 )
- UCAS Course Code:
- VL12
- Duration:
- 3 years
- Attendance:
- Full Time
- Award:
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- School of Study:
- History
- Brochure:
- School of History Undergraduate Brochure (PDF)
- Typical A-Level Offer:
- AAB including B in History
This degree programme, taught jointly with the School of Political, Social and International Studies, offers you the chance to link your historical studies with the study of politics. As well as the full range of History offerings, you can choose from modules in Politics & Government, Political Thought and International Relations. (A separate booklet describing the Politics options is available on request). You are responsible for determining the overall balance between History and Politics in Years 2 and 3. In the second year you are free to determine the exact proportion of your studies you devote to each subject. You may choose to specialise in a particular country or region by combining study of the history of Nazism with contemporary Germany, Russian Politics with the history of Stalinism or British history with international relations. In the third year, you take a Special Subject in Modern History and a further module in Politics.
Assessment
Key skills, issues and ideas are introduced in lectures given by all members of faculty. More specialist study is undertaken in small group seminars. These are chosen from a range offered within the School and across the University. You will also spend time studying and researching in the library or carrying out practical work or projects. In most subject areas, you are assessed at the end of each year on the basis of coursework and, in some cases, project and examination results. In your final year, you will write a dissertation on a topic of your choice and with the advice of tutors. There is no final examination. Your final degree result is determined by the marks you receive in years two and three.
Ms. Rowena Burgess
History is one of the most intellectually and challenging forms of training. Through the study of documents, their interpretation and interpretors, we have a chance to view both past achievements and failures, and establish some patterns and meaning. Through History we have an insight into past civilisations and cultures which were both similar and different from our own. At the University of East Anglia we use a wide range of teaching methods including lectures, seminars and tutorials. Students benefit from the existence of an active research-led culture amongst staff, many prominent visiting speakers and international links within the School.
The School was founded in 1994 when historians from three of the university's interdisciplinary Schools came together out of a belief that a School of History could provide a better focus for historical activity at the University of East Anglia. Since then we have gone from strength to strength and in the most recent Research Assessment Exercise, 90 per cent of our research was classified as being of international importance or better. We concentrate on British and European history from the medieval to the contemporary period, which allows us to offer a very wide degree of choice within these areas to our students.
UniStats Information
Compulsory Study (100 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 100 credits:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| INTRODUCTION TO CONTEMPORARY POLITICS | PSI-1A02 | 20 |
| This module introduces students to some key issues in the development of European Politics and Government in the latter part of the twentieth century. The module focuses on the development of liberal democracy in Europe, its different forms and the challenges to it. The module also examines the changing nature of the European nation- state and the development of supranational organisations, particularly the EU and the impact of globalisation for both liberal democracy and the state. During the module ample use is made of country-specific case studies to illustrate general points. | ||
| INTRODUCTION TO EARLY MODERN STUDIES | HIS-1A15 | 20 |
| This module introduces key themes in early modern history: witchcraft, gender, rebellion, religious conflict, the reformation, warfare, state formation and other key aspects of the period 1500-1750. | ||
| INTRODUCTION TO MODERN HISTORY | HIS-1A19 | 20 |
| This module provides a wide-ranging introduction to the political, social and economic transformation of Britain and Europe from the early nineteenth century to the First World War. Among the core themes are industrialisation, revolution, nationalism and imperialism. The module is taught thematically by a comprehensive series of lectures, accompanied by weekly seminars. | ||
| SOCIAL AND POLITICAL THEORY | PSI-1A01 | 20 |
| This module introduces some of the key texts in contemporary social and political debate through the discussion of the ideologies in which they have been expressed. Western ideologies such as socialism and conservatism are discussed and evaluated alongside more radical doctrines such as anarchism and libertarianism, feminism and the new ecological thinking. We focus upon liberal dilemmas. | ||
| THE HOLOCAUST IN HISTORY | HIS-1A26 | 20 |
| In the last twenty years there has been a sustained and remarkable growth of historical and public interest in the ‘Holocaust’. The proliferation of academic work on all aspects of the history of the Holocaust, accompanied more recently by a burgeoning scholarship on genocide in general, has been matched by an enormous output of ‘private’ and ‘public’ history, from memoirs and recollections by ‘survivors’ to films and documentaries, websites of all kinds and the official commemoration of the Holocaust in museums, exhibitions and days of remembrance. The Holocaust has thus been transformed from a specialised branch field of historical enquiry into a contemporary cultural phenomenon. This module encourages you to reflect critically on this phenomenon by setting the history of the Holocaust into its wider context. This will involve study of: the history of the persecution of the Jews since the Middle Ages; the changing nature of antisemitism in Europe over the centuries; the emergence of a racial-political antisemitism at the end of the 19th century; the impact of the First World War on attitudes to minorities and on the propensity for more violent assertions of nationhood; Nazi practices of isolation, Aryanisation, deportation and ghettoisation; the German war of racial annihilation in the East and the implementation of the ‘Final Solution’; the experience, motivations and psychology of the ‘ordinary’ perpetrator; the testimony of those who survived the Holocaust; the relationship of the Holocaust to other genocides; the challenges of representing and teaching the Holocaust. The module will therefore enable you to reflect more widely on what history is, how we do it, and why we do it; on the methods one can use, the questions one can ask, the variety of sources one can tackle and why history matters. | ||
Option A Study (20 credits)
Students will select 20 credits from the following modules:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| GLOBAL POLITICS 2 | PSI-1A10 | 20 |
| This module focuses on particular controversies and debates within contemporary global politics. It can be taken as a stand-alone module, and it also builds upon the conceptual frameworks of Global Politics I. It takes in debates related to security and power, such as US decline, the rise of China, and nuclear proliferation. It looks at transnational problems such as global governance, the global environment and global poverty. It engages with ethical debates and controversies surrounding the transformation of the international system, such as the future of the EU, humanitarian intervention, democratization and the transformation of the state and political community. | ||
| HISTORY AND THE ENVIRONMENT | HIS-1A24 | 20 |
| This module is designed to provide a wide-ranging introduction to environmental and landscape history both for first year history students and those from other schools. It will examine the historical dimensions of a number of contemporary issues, such as conservation, pollution and globalization and it will also introduce students to the sources for landscape and environmental history. The module is taught by weekly lectures and by field trips to a variety of landscapes in the region. | ||
| WITCHCRAFT, MAGIC AND BELIEF IN EARLY MODERN EUROPE | HIS-1A22 | 20 |
| This module looks at the changing character of magical belief between the late medieval period and the early industrial revolution. It pays particular attention to: gender; popular culture; sexual politics; drama; witchcraft; and the cultural, social and intellectual world of early modern communities. | ||
Compulsory Study (20 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 20 credits:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BUILDING BLOCKS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE | PSI-2A48 | 20 |
| The aim of this module is to introduce students to the key theoretical issues and debates that underpin the discipline of political science so that students understand the main methodological and ideological approaches to political science. It will also be of relevance to international relations students. The module will provide important foundations for the remainder of the politics major degree. It will be one of two compulsory modules for single honours Politics students. The first half of the module will focus on meta-theoretical concerns such as how to compare political phenomena and systems, ideas and material explanation, structure and agency, epistemology and ontology. The second part of the module will be concerned with the way in which these issues inform empirical political analysis. It covers the key empirical debates in political science about power, representation, accountability and policy making in the western democracies. | ||
Option A Study (60 credits)
Students will select 60 credits from the following modules:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ANGLO-SAXON ENGLAND, C. 500-1066 | HISH2A93 | 20 |
| This is a general survey module of the history of England from the arrival of the English in Britain in the fifth century until the end of the eleventh century and the conquest by the Normans. We shall cover topics such as the conversion of the English in the seventh century, the domination of England by Mercia in the eighth century, the Viking invasions and the reign of Alfred the Great, the emergence of Wessex as the dominant force in England in the tenth century, the conquest of England by the Danes in the eleventh century and the Norman Conquest of England. | ||
| ANGLO-SAXON ENGLAND, C. 500-1066 (CW) | HISH2A93C | 20 |
| This unit is a coursework-only version of HISH2A93C ANGLO-SAXON ENGLAND, c. 500-1066 and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| CONSPIRACY AND CRISIS IN EARLY MODERN ENGLAND | HISH2H08 | 20 |
| Assassination. Foreign invasion. Revolt and rebellion. Political and religious plots loomed large and posed a constant threat in Early Modern England. Conspiracy was not simply an imagined threat nor did it exist in theory; it was a social and political reality that elicited fear, shaped policies and gave rise to self-fulfilling prophecies. Did the greatest threat of subversion come from popular uprisings, foreign invasion or from the heart of the British government? From Mary, Queen of Scots and the Gunpowder Plot to the hidden agenda of Charles I, this module will survey a series of popular, elite and royalist conspiracies. Moving behind official narratives, it will draw on a host of resources to investigate alternative explanations for crisis over power, authority and legitimacy during this period. Each conspiracy will provide and point of entry into broader changes in early modern society as the crown and commons reimagined and realigned political, religious and social boundaries. | ||
| CONSPIRACY AND CRISIS IN EARLY MODERN ENGLAND (CW) | HISH2H08C | 20 |
| Assassination. Foreign invasion. Revolt and rebellion. Political and religious plots loomed large and posed a constant threat in Early Modern England. Conspiracy was not simply an imagined threat nor did it exist in theory; it was a social and political reality that elicited fear, shaped policies and gave rise to self-fulfilling prophecies. Did the greatest threat of subversion come from popular uprisings, foreign invasion or from the heart of the British government? From Mary, Queen of Scots and the Gunpowder Plot to the hidden agenda of Charles I, this module will survey a series of popular, elite and royalist conspiracies. Moving behind official narratives, it will draw on a host of resources to investigate alternative explanations for crisis over power, authority and legitimacy during this period. Each conspiracy will provide and point of entry into broader changes in early modern society as the crown and commons reimagined and realigned political, religious and social boundaries. This module is only available to non-HIS and visiting students. | ||
| EARLY MEDIEVAL EUROPE | HISH2B13 | 20 |
| This module focuses on the geographical area covered by the Carolingian Empire - that is, the modern territorial units of France, Germany, Italy, and the Benelux countries. It begins in the late sixth century with the Merovingian dynasty and ends with the reform of the Papacy and the first crusade at the end of the 11th century. | ||
| EARLY MEDIEVAL EUROPE (CW) | HISH2B13C | 20 |
| This unit is a coursework-only version of HISH2B13 EARLY MEDIEVAL EUROPE and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| FROM AGINCOURT TO BOSWORTH: ENGLAND IN THE WARS OF THE ROSES | HISH2B18 | 20 |
| Through a close examination of the lives and reigns of four very different monarchs this unit investigates the workings of kingship and high politics in one of the most turbulent periods of English History (1415-1485). New interpretations of the Wars of the Roses, as well as original source material, will be studied. | ||
| FROM AGINCOURT TO BOSWORTH: ENGLAND IN THE WARS OF THE ROSES | HISH2B18C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B18 FROM AGINCOURT TO BOSWORTH: ENGLAND IN THE WARS OF THE ROSES and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting students. | ||
| HERITAGE AND PUBLIC HISTORY | HISH2H05 | 20 |
| Public history is history in the public sphere, whether in museums and galleries, heritage sites and historic houses, radio and television broadcasting, film, popular history books, or public policy within government. In the UK, it is a new and burgeoning area of academic interest and debate. The central challenge and task of public history is making history relevant and accessible to its audience of people outside academia, whilst adhering to an academically credible historical method. This module explores the theory and practice of public history in heritage, broadcasting and publication. The first half of the module considers the principles of visitor interpretation, museology and curatorship, asking questions such as, how is the past used? What is authenticity? What decisions are made in the presentation and interpretation of museums and historic houses? Must public – or popular – history mean ‘dumbing down’, or can we satisfy the public’s curiosity about the past in a way that also satisfies us as historians? The second half of the module seriously engages with the challenge of how to represent history in television documentaries, radio broadcasts, mainstream cinema, in the making of public policy, and as popular history or historical fiction. Outside speakers – chosen from curators, interpreters, producers, and popular historians and broadcasters – will lecture as part of this course. The course will also involve a field trip to Hampton Court Palace. | ||
| IMPERIAL RUSSIAN AND SOVIET HISTORY 1861, - 1941 | HISH2D89C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2D89 IMPERIAL RUSSIAN AND SOVIET HISTORY and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| IMPERIAL RUSSIAN AND SOVIET HISTORY, 1861-1945 | HISH2D89 | 20 |
| This module examines some of the main themes in Russian history between the Emancipation of the Serfs and the outbreak of the Second World War. We will look at the nature of industrialisation and the peasant economy, the autocracy and its fall in 1917, the revolutionary movement and the nationalities question. We will then examine how the Revolution of 1917 changed the state and the ways in which the Communists attempted to change society before 1929. We conclude by examining the country during the era of the five year plans and the impact of the Stalinist system on the Soviet Union before the outbreak of world war. | ||
| LANDSCAPE I: STRUCTURES OF LANDSCAPE | HISH2A51 | 20 |
| This unit will examine the development of the English landscape from early prehistoric times to the late Saxon period. We will examine the field archaeology of the Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Ages, discuss in some detail the landscapes of Roman Britain, and assess the nature of the Roman/Saxon transition. We will then investigate the development of territorial organisation, field systems and settlement patterns during the Middle and later Saxon periods. The unit provides an introduction to archaeological theory and methods, as well as giving a broad overview of the development of society, economy and environment in the period before the Norman Conquest. | ||
| LANDSCAPE I: STRUCTURES OF LANDSCAPE | HISH2A51C | 20 |
| This unit is a coursework-only version of HISH2A51 LANDSCAPE I and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| LANDSCAPE II (CW) | HISH2A52C | 20 |
| This unit will examine the development of the English countryside from late Saxon times into the eighteenth century. Topics covered will include medieval settlement and field systems, medieval and post medieval earthworks, woods and wood-pastures, enclosure, walls and hedges, the archaeology of houses, and vernacular houses. There will be a substantial practical component to the unit, involving the analysis of earthworks, hedges and woods, early maps and aerial photographs. | ||
| LANDSCAPE II : BUILT AND SEMI-NATURAL ENVIRONMENTS | HISH2A52 | 20 |
| This module will examine the development of the English countryside from late Saxon times into the eighteenth century. Topics covered will include woods and wood-pastures, enclosure, walls and hedges, the archaeology of churches and vernacular houses. There will be a substantial practical component to the module, involving the analysis of buildings, hedges and woods and other semi-natural environments. | ||
| LATER MEDIEVAL EUROPE | HISH2A94 | 20 |
| This module focuses on the political, cultural and social history of later medieval Europe (c. 1100-c. 1500) looking particularly at France and Italy. We discuss the formation of cities, the position of the papacy, lay piety, the role of women, and other related topics. | ||
| LATER MEDIEVAL EUROPE (CW) | HISH2A94C | 20 |
| This is a coursework-only version of HISH2A94 LATER MEDIEVAL EUROPE and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting students. | ||
| LATIN FOR HISTORIANS | HISH2A62 | 20 |
| The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to the linguistic skills in medieval Latin which enable students to read administrative documents such as charters, accounts, court rolls, etc. It is particularly suited for those who contemplate proceeding to the MA pathways in Medieval History or in Local and Regional History. | ||
| MEDICINE & SOCIETY BEFORE THE 17TH CENTURY | HISH2B95C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework only version of HISH2B95: MEDICINE AND SOCIETY BEFORE THE 17TH CENTURY and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting Students. | ||
| MEDICINE AND GENDER | HISH2B97 | 20 |
| This module offers a broad historical treatment of gender issues in medicine, examining women as providers and recipients of healthcare from Ancient Greece to the NHS. Topics for study include the female body, obstetrics and gynaecology, the female healer and the medical profession, women, witchcraft and popular healing, scientific medicine and professionalisation, nurses, nursing and reform, and women's health. | ||
| MEDICINE AND GENDER (CW) | HISH2B97C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B97 MEDICINE AND GENDER and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| MEDICINE AND SOCIETY BEFORE THE 17TH CENTURY | HISH2B95 | 20 |
| This module examines the theory and practice of medicine at all levels of English society during the medieval and early modern periods, and assesses the impact of medical ideas upon religious literary and political thought. Topics include: the emergence of a healing profession and its attempts to secure a monopoly of practice; the role of women as both patients and practitioners; theories about the spread of disease and necessary measures for public health; medicine and the Church; and attitudes to mortality. Edited versions of original documents are used. | ||
| MEDICINE AND SOCIETY IN MODERN BRITAIN | HISH2B96 | 20 |
| This module considers the practice of medicine in Britain from the eighteenth century to the establishment of the NHS. Themes include the impact of science and professions, the organisation and control aspects of medical and hospital services and healthcare as seen by sufferers and patients. In the context of background trends in social history, students can follow up special interests (eg, gender issues, rural services) in essay topics. | ||
| MEDICINE AND SOCIETY IN MODERN BRITAIN (CW) | HISH2B96C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B96 MEDICINE AND SOCIETY IN MODERN BRITAIN and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| MODERN GERMANY, 1866-1945 | HISH2D53 | 20 |
| The history of few countries is as dramatic as that of modern Germany in the 19th and 20th centuries. This module will examine the making of the German nation, the political consequences of Germany's transformation into an industrial superpower, why Germany plunged Europe into war in 1914, whether Weimar democracy had any chance of survival, the relationship of people to regime in Nazi Germany, what in Germany's history produced a regime as barbarous and destructive as that of Adolf Hitler, and the impact of Nazism on Germany since 1945. | ||
| MODERN GERMANY, 1866-1945 | HISH2D53C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2D53 MODERN GERMANY, 1866-1945 and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| MODERN ITALY, 1860-1945 | HISH2E08 | 20 |
| This module studies the social, political and economic history of Italy from its unification in 1860 until the end of the Second World War. It will begin by looking at the process of unification, the difficulties encountered in governing the new nation-state and the problems of uneven social and economic modernisation. The module then focuses on the First World War and the rise of Fascism after 1918, before assessing the nature of Mussolini's regime and the reasons for its downfall. | ||
| MODERN ITALY, 1860-1945 | HISH2E08C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2E08 MODERN ITALY, 1860-1945 and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| NAPOLEON TO STALIN: THE STRUGGLE FOR MASTERY IN EUROPE | HISH2D02 | 20 |
| This module deals with the rivalries of the Great Powers from the end of the Napoleonic Wars to the onset of the Cold War. We shall be examining topics such as the Vienna system, the Crimean War, Italian and German Unification, the origins of the First and Second World Wars and the start of the Cold War. | ||
| NORMAN AND PLANTAGENET ENGLAND, 1066-1307 | HISH2B12 | 20 |
| This module follows the history of England from the Norman Conquest of 1066 down to the death of Edward 1 in 1307. The aim of this module is to look at the political, ecclesiastical, social and intellectual history of England in this period and to place English history in the wider context of European history in the Middle Ages. | ||
| NORMAN AND PLANTAGENET ENGLAND, 1066-1307 | HISH2B12C | 20 |
| This unit is a coursework-only version of HISH2B12 NORMAN AND PLANTAGENET ENGLAND, 1066-1307 and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| QUEENS, COURTESANS AND COMMONERS: WOMEN AND GENDER IN EARLY MODERN EUROPE | HISH2F25 | 20 |
| This module examines the issue of gender in European history, between 1500 and 1750. Using a variety of written and visual sources, and including a comparative element, it focuses on the following themes: definitions of femininity and masculinity; life-cycles; family, kinship, and marriage; social exclusion, charity and the welfare state; law, crime, and order; witchcraft and magic; honour, sex, and sexual identities; work; learning and the arts; material culture; the impact of European expansions. | ||
| QUEENS, COURTESANS AND COMMONERS: WOMEN AND GENDER IN EARLY MODERN EUROPE (CW) | HISH2F25C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework only version of HISH2F25 WOMEN AND GENDER IN EARLY MODERN EUROPE and is available only to NON-HUM and Visiting Students. | ||
| REFORMATION TO REVOLUTION | HISH2H01 | 20 |
| This module examines three centuries of European history connecting two unprecedented revolutionary epochs: the Reformation of the sixteenth century and the American and French revolutions at the end of the early modern era. We will look at key themes and movements in these centuries, including the politics of the Reformation; the Mediterranean work of the Ottomans and Habsburg Spain; the Dutch Golden Age; the great political and religious struggles of the seventeenth century, including wars in the British Isles, the Holy Roman Empire, and the Baltic; the Russia of the Romanov czars and Peter the Great; the growth of centralised states and absolutism in France, Prussia and Austria; the Enlightenment; the rise of the Atlantic economies; and the challenge to the Old Regime from revolutionary politics. | ||
| REFORMATION TO REVOLUTION | HISH2H01C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework only version of HISH2H01 REFORMATION TO REVOLUTION and is available only to NON-HUM and Visiting Students. | ||
| SEMESTER STUDY ABROAD (AUTUMN SEMESTER) | HISH2X05 | 60 |
| X05 This module offers HIS students on the V100 programme the opportunity to spend the Autumn semester of their second year studying abroad, either in a European university, as part of the ERASMUS scheme, or in a selected North American or Australian university approved by the School’s Director of Teaching. | ||
| SEMESTER STUDY ABROAD (SPRING SEMESTER) | HISH2X04 | 60 |
| X04 This module offers HIS students on the V100 programme the opportunity to spend the Spring semester of their second year studying abroad, either in a European university, as part of the ERASMUS scheme, or in a selected North American or Australian university approved by the School’s Director of Teaching. | ||
| THE BRITISH EMPIRE, 1857-1956 | HISH2B74 | 20 |
| This module surveys the history of the British Empire from the mid-nineteenth century to the Suez Crisis, seeking to explain the Empire's growth and the early stages of its contraction. It examines the nature and impact of British colonial rule, at the political, economic and social/cultural levels, addressing the development of the 'settler' colonies/Dominions, the special significance of India and the implications of the 'New Imperialism'. Problems to be considered include theories of 'development' and 'collaboration', the growth of resistance and nationalism, and Britain's responses to these, and the impacts of the two World Wars and the Cold War on Britain's Imperial system. | ||
| THE BRITISH EMPIRE, 1857-1956 | HISH2B74C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B74 THE BRITISH EMPIRE and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting students. | ||
| THE DUCHESS OF DEVONSHIRE TO NANCY ASTOR: WOMEN, POWER AND POLITICS | HISH2H12 | 20 |
| This module explores female involvement in politics, from the Duchess of Devonshire’s infamous activities in the 1784 Westminster election until 1919, when Nancy Astor became the first woman to take her seat in the House of Commons. It will examine topics including the early feminists, aristocratic female politicians, radical politics and the suffragettes. It will investigate the changes and continuities with female engagement with the political process from the eighteenth century through to the twentieth century. | ||
| THE DUCHESS OF DEVONSHIRE TO NANCY ASTOR: WOMEN, POWER AND POLITICS | HISH2H12C | 20 |
| This module explores female involvement in politics, from the Duchess of Devonshire’s infamous activities in the 1784 Westminster election until 1919, when Nancy Astor became the first woman to take her seat in the House of Commons. It will examine topics including the early feminists, aristocratic female politicians, radical politics and the suffragettes. It will investigate the changes and continuities with female engagement with the political process from the eighteenth century through to the twentieth century. This module is only available to non-HIS and visiting students. | ||
| THE ENGLISH CIVIL WARS | HISH2H10 | 20 |
| This module looks at the causes, course and significance at what, in terms of relative population loss was probably the single most devastating conflict in English history; the civil wars of 1642-6, 1648 and 1651. In those years, families, villages and towns were divided by political allegiances and military mobilisation. Hundreds of thousands died, not just from warfare, but also from the spread of infectious disease, siege and the disruption of food supplies. In the rest of the British Isles, suffering was even more profound. The execution of the King in 1649, intended to bring an end to the wars, divided the country ever more deeply. By the late 1640s, radical social groups had emerged who questioned the very basis of authority in Early Modern Society, and made arguments for democracy and for the redistribution of land and power. Karl Marx thought that English revolution marked the beginnings of capitalism. Was he right? Focussing on ordinary men and women as well as upon important generals, politicians and monarchs, this module examines the following issues: the causes of the civil war; the reign of Charles I; the start of the warfare in Ireland and Scotland; the outbreak of the English Civil war; the course of the war; popular allegiances – why did ordinary people fight?; the Levellers, Diggers and Ranters; the crisis of 1647-9; the trial and execution of Charles I; gender, women and revolution; the experience of warfare; print and popular political gossip; the failure of the English Republic and the Restoration of Charles II. Particular use will be made of the primary source extracts and web resources. | ||
| THE ENGLISH CIVIL WARS (CW) | HISH2H10C | 20 |
| This module looks at the causes, course and significance at what, in terms of relative population loss was probably the single most devastating conflict in English history; the civil wars of 1642-6, 1648 and 1651. In those years, families, villages and towns were divided by political allegiances and military mobilisation. Hundreds of thousands died, not just from warfare, but also from the spread of infectious disease, siege and the disruption of food supplies. In the rest of the British Isles, suffering was even more profound. The execution of the King in 1649, intended to bring an end to the wars, divided the country ever more deeply. By the late 1640s, radical social groups had emerged who questioned the very basis of authority in Early Modern Society, and made arguments for democracy and for the redistribution of land and power. Karl Marx thought that English revolution marked the beginnings of capitalism. Was he right? Focussing on ordinary men and women as well as upon important generals, politicians and monarchs, this module examines the following issues: the causes of the civil war; the reign of Charles I; the start of the warfare in Ireland and Scotland; the outbreak of the English Civil war; the course of the war; popular allegiances – why did ordinary people fight?; the Levellers, Diggers and Ranters; the crisis of 1647-9; the trial and execution of Charles I; gender, women and revolution; the experience of warfare; print and popular political gossip; the failure of the English Republic and the Restoration of Charles II. Particular use will be made of the primary source extracts and web resources. This module is only available to non-HIS and visiting students. | ||
| THE PAPACY, CHRISTIANITY AND THE STATE, 1050-1300 | HISH2A10 | 20 |
| In these centuries the pope became the most influential figure in Europe. He could depose emperors, mobilise vast armies to fight on crusade, and intervene in disputes in far-away realms. This module explores the origins of papal power and its impact on emerging nations in the west. | ||
| THE PAPACY, CHRISTIANITY AND THE STATE, 1050-1300 | HISH2A10C | 20 |
| This unit is a coursework-only version of HISH2A10 THE PAPACY, CHRISTIANITY AND THE STATE, 1050-1300 and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting students. | ||
| THE POWER OF THE PAST: MEMORY AND HISTORY | HISH2E02 | 20 |
| Ideas about the past have often been very political. This unit looks at popular ideas about history. The first part of the unit focuses on modern Britain and Europe c. 1848-1991. The second part of the unit looks at a range of case studies from earlier periods. | ||
| THE RISE AND FALL OF BRITISH POWER | HISH2B57 | 20 |
| This module examines Britain's expansion and decline as a great power, from the end of the Napoleonic Wars to the 1950s. It considers the foundations of British power, the emergence of rivals, Britain's relationship with the European powers and the USA, and the impact of two World Wars and Cold War. It investigates the reasons for Britain's changing fortunes, as it moved from guarding the balance of power to lowing its empire. | ||
| THE RISE AND FALL OF BRITISH POWER | HISH2B57C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B57 THE RISE AND FALL OF BRITISH POWER and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| TUDOR AND STUART ENGLAND | HISH2B35 | 20 |
| This module seeks to identify patterns of continuity and change in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, with a view to defining the early modern period in practice. Through an examination of both political and constitutional history from the top down, and social and cultural history from the bottom up, it seeks to understand the period dynamically, in terms of new and often troubled relationships which were formed between governors and governed. Topics include: Tudor monarchy, the Protestant Reformation, the social order, popular religion and literacy, riot and rebellion, the Stuart state, the civil wars, crime and the law, women and gender. | ||
| TUDOR AND STUART ENGLAND | HISH2B35C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B35 TUDOR AND STUART ENGLAND and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| TWENTIETH-CENTURY BRITAIN: 1914 TO THE PRESENT | HISH2G01 | 20 |
| This module examines the themes of conflict and consensus in Britain from the Great War to the present day, both through the study of political life and also by assessing the impact of economic, social and cultural change. There are opportunities to re-evaluate issues such as the impact of war on society, “landmark” General Elections such as those of 1945 and 1979, the nature and durability of consensus politics in the 1950s, or Britain’s role in the contemporary world. | ||
| TWENTIETH-CENTURY BRITAIN: 1914 TO THE PRESENT | HISH2G01C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2G01 TWENTIETH-CENTURY BRITAIN, 1914 TO THE PRESENT and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting students. | ||
| VICTORIAN BRITAIN | HISH2B73 | 20 |
| This module will examine the leading themes in British history during Victoria's reign (1837-1901). It will include political, social, economic, religious, urban, gender and intellectual topics. | ||
| VICTORIAN BRITAIN | HISH2B73C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B73 VICTORIAN BRITAIN and is only available to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| WAR AND PEACE SINCE 1945 | HISH2G02 | 20 |
| This module analyses the use and non-use of force in inter-state relations. It first asks why wars occur between states and examines the political, legal and ethical constraints on military action. We then consider peaceful alternatives and civil society. The themes include: the causes of wars; the history of warfare; the Cold War; nuclear strategy and arms control; the laws of war; peace theories; UN peacekeeping; disarmament, and non-violent resistance | ||
| WAR AND PEACE SINCE 1945 | HISH2G02C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2G02C WAR AND PEACE SINCE 1945 and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting students. | ||
Option B Study (20 credits)
Students will select 20 credits from the following modules:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BRITAIN AND EUROPE | PSI-2A32 | 20 |
| The UK’s relationship with its European neighbours has historically been fraught with tension and difficulty. This module investigates and attempts to explain Britain’s ambivalent attitude towards European integration. Considering competing visions of Britain’s post-war destiny, it tracks, through an examination of internal debates in the two main political parties, the UK’s changing European policy from aloofness in the 1950s through the two half-hearted applications for membership in the 1960s to accession in 1973 and the development thereafter of its reputation as an ‘awkward partner’. It examines the impact of EU membership on British politics and the British political system, assesses the success of Britain’s efforts to shape the EU agenda, and critically evaluates arguments for and against British membership, including those concerning British exceptionalism. | ||
| BUILDING BLOCKS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE | PSI-2A48 | 20 |
| The aim of this module is to introduce students to the key theoretical issues and debates that underpin the discipline of political science so that students understand the main methodological and ideological approaches to political science. It will also be of relevance to international relations students. The module will provide important foundations for the remainder of the politics major degree. It will be one of two compulsory modules for single honours Politics students. The first half of the module will focus on meta-theoretical concerns such as how to compare political phenomena and systems, ideas and material explanation, structure and agency, epistemology and ontology. The second part of the module will be concerned with the way in which these issues inform empirical political analysis. It covers the key empirical debates in political science about power, representation, accountability and policy making in the western democracies. | ||
| COMPARATIVE POLITICS | PSI-2A45 | 20 |
| The aim of this module is to enable students to develop understanding of political systems in advanced Western states. Students graduating from the module will be able to demonstrate: - critical understanding of the main theories, models and concepts applied in the analysis of political systems and their comparison - knowledge of national political systems and their institutional dynamics, political processes and debates concerning the emergence of new political regimes, the politics of territory, parties and party systems, political leadership, legislatures, interest groups, the state and public policy, and identity and citizenship; - critical awareness of current debates in comparative politics - key skills, including critical evaluation, analytical investigation, written presentation, and oral communication | ||
| CONSUMER CULTURE AND SOCIETY | PSI-2A50 | 20 |
| This module explores the significance of consumption as a major form of social life. Drawing on a variety of theoretical perspectives, including sociology and cultural studies, it examines how taste, style and identity are defined by consumption and explores how consumerism ties in with wider debates about globalisation and geo- politics. In your assignments you will be asked to apply your knowledge of different theoretical perspectives and critically analyse specific examples of consumerism. | ||
| DEMOCRATIC THEORY | PSI-2A24 | 20 |
| This module considers how the concept of democracy has changed since it originated in ancient Greece and looks at the critiques of democracy advanced by its opponents. The ideas and values underpinning democracy will be examined. The first part of the module focuses on texts by the major democratic thinkers including Locke, Rousseau and Mill. The second part concentrates on contemporary theories of democracy and examines the problems which democracy currently faces and evaluates the solutions proposed, including "electronic democracy" and "cosmopolitan democracy". | ||
| EU'S FUTURE AS AN INTERNATIONAL ACTOR | PSI-2A08 | 20 |
| The module focuses on European political co-operation at the turn of the century and projections into the future. Issues include: the EU as mediator in international conflicts such as the Gulf War, Bosnia and Kosovo - the EU as a viable economic power vis-a-vis the United States and Japan - the EU as the second largest developmental aid-donor to the Third World and a pioneering force behind environmental policy and energy policy - the EU as a hesitant superpower in security and defence (Iraq, Iran, terrorism, etc.). It is advisable - but not compulsory - to have taken another EU-related module prior to embarking on this one. | ||
| GLOBAL POLITICAL ECONOMY | PSI-2A51 | 20 |
| This module serves as an introduction to one of the core subfields of international relations, Global Political Economy (GPE), which examines the complex interplay of wealth and power in the evolution of global social order. Students will learn the basics of a political economy approach in evaluating how scarcity and production influence the dynamics of the interstate system. During the semester students will engage with the principal theories of GPE, learn about the rise and consolidation of the current international economic architecture, and explore key issues confronting the contemporary global political economy. In particular, we will look at the challenges posed by global inequality, financial crises and the spectre of ecological catastrophe. | ||
| GLOBAL POLITICAL ECONOMY (CW) | PSI-2A51C | 20 |
| This is a CW variant of PSI-2A51: Global Political Economy which is only available for PSI students undertaking the Study Abroad module in the Spring semester. | ||
| INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS | PSI-2A30 | 20 |
| There are few areas of international politics that remain unregulated by international organisations or informal norms. This module examines the historical development of international organizations, including the UN, NATO, the IMF and the World Bank. It looks at why sovereign states decide to establish international organizations, the factors that determine their design and evolution, and the extent to which their operation reflects underlying power and interests. It critically evaluates the main theories used to explain cooperation between states and the development of international institutions, examines the role played by international organisations in security, trade, finance, gender and environmental policy, and asks whether global governance is possible. | ||
| INTERNATIONAL POLITICS SINCE 1945 | PSI-2A07 | 20 |
| This module provides a brief historical and theoretical review of the cold war. It then goes on to look at some of the key issues of the post-cold war world. How far have international relations changed since the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989? What are the prospects for peace, stability and prosperity now that the ideological and military struggle between the USSR and the USA is over? | ||
| INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS THEORY | PSI-2A47 | 20 |
| This module will give students an essential grounding in International Relations theory, encompassing both the foundational theories of realism and liberalism, and contemporary debates about hegemony, neo-imperialism and post-positivism. The module is structured around the rationalist-reflectivist divide and starts with classical realism and neo-realism, and liberalism and neo-liberalism. It then explores the English School and constructivism before turning to more critical theories like historical materialism and neo-Marxism. Finally, this module turns to theories which are more reflectivist: post-colonialism, feminism and gender studies, post-structuralism and Foucault, and critical theory. This module will be taught predominantly using lectures and seminars but will make use, where appropriate, of film and documentaries in order to explore different theoretical schools, both thematically and empirically. | ||
| INTERNATIONAL SECURITY AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION | PSI-2A34 | 20 |
| This module will offer an examination of the ways in which violent conflict and the use of force are managed in world politics. The module surveys a variety of perspectives on the causes of war and peace in order to better examine the roots of violent conflicts and security problems in the present day. | ||
| INTRODUCTION TO MIDDLE EAST POLITICS | PSI-2A46 | 20 |
| This module provides a historical background to the Middle East and its politics. It is concerned with politics within the region as well as relations between Middle Eastern countries and Western powers. The module encourages students to think critically about the links between some key concepts in the comparative politics of non-Western countries, including historical processes of state formation, the legacy of colonialism/neo-colonialism, the role of culture and identity and the significance of natural resources and economic factors. | ||
| INTRODUCTION TO THE EUROPEAN UNION | PSI-2A05 | 20 |
| This module examines the development, structure, nature, and functions of the European Union. It looks at the history and theories of European Integration from its inception to the present day. The module concentrates on the institutions and processes which run the EU, demystifies its main policies, including the Common Agricultural, Regional and other Policies, examines critically the process of Monetary Integration and the role of the euro in the European economy, and assesses the positions of the member-states on the EU's constantly developing agenda with a spotlight on issues of contention such as a Constitution for Europe. | ||
| METHODS OF SOCIAL RESEARCH | PSI-2A13 | 20 |
| Students learn how to do research by engaging in a research project. A variety of research skills can be acquired - interviewing, observation, taking fieldwork notes, computerised data analysis, report writing etc. | ||
| NEW MEDIA AND SOCIETY | PSI-2A27 | 20 |
| For better or worse, new digital technologies are hyped at having revolutionised society. This module will provide students with an introduction to the ways in which the internet and other digital technologies are (and are not) affecting society from theoretical and empirical perspectives, and how society shapes technology. Topics covered include: the evolution of the internet; the "network society"; regulating new media; the radical internet and terrorism; social networking, blogs and interactivity; culture and identity in the digital age; and how the internet affects politics and the media. . | ||
| POLITICS AND MASS MEDIA | PSI-2A02 | 20 |
| Mass media are an inescapable part of contemporary political life. This module examines the effect of mass media on political activity, considering their influence on voter behaviour, party campaigning and government practices. It also looks at the political values expressed within mass media and the political control exercised over mass media. | ||
| POLITICS IN THE USA | PSI-2A03 | 20 |
| Virtually alone among the world's modern democratic nations, the US does not have parliamentary government. This unit is an introduction to the American system, in which power is divided between state and federal authorities, and further among legislative, executive and judicial branches. Does this open-textured system encourage democratic participation? Has it become so chaotic that sound policy making is discouraged? The coursework in the unit will consist of a number of short essays. A coursework-only version is also available. | ||
| POLITICS IN THE USA (CW) | PSI-2A03C | 20 |
| This is a coursework-only version of PSI-2A03 Politics in the USA. THIS COURSEWORK VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING STUDENTS. | ||
| POWER AND SOCIETY | PSI-2A35 | 20 |
| This module introduces students to some of the key perspectives in social and political theory. Central to this module is an interest in the relationship between economic, social and cultural structures and individual agency and identity. Themes explored in this module may include the following: structuralism, social conflict and consensus; Marxist approaches to ideology and power; structuralism; poststructuralism and language; ideology and discourse; the end of ideology; postmodernity; the self and consumer society. | ||
| RUSSIAN POLITICS | PSI-2A04 | 20 |
| In the first half of this module students study the rise and fall of communism in the Soviet Union. The module then goes on to consider the problems faced by post-Soviet Russia as it seeks to transform itself into a liberal democracy and a functioning market-economy. The module shows that many of the difficulties of transition currently confronting Russia are a result of its Soviet past. | ||
| STUDY ABROAD MODULE | PSI-2A18 | 60 |
| The School of PSI has various arrangements with overseas Universities where it is possible to spend a semester studying abroad. For more information on this please contact the PSI Teaching Director, Dr T Dant - or the UPO HUM Office. | ||
| STUDY ABROAD MODULE | PSI-2A19 | 60 |
| The School of PSI has various arrangements with overseas Universities where it is possible to spend a semester studying abroad. For more information on this please contact the PSI Teaching Director, Dr T Dant - or the UPO HUM Office. | ||
| THE MEDIA AND IDENTITY | PSI-2A26 | 20 |
| Drawing on a range of theoretical approaches in the field of media and cultural studies, this module explores the relationship between media culture and social identities. Discussing the representation of identity in media content, as well as issues of media production, regulation and consumption, it critically reflects upon the relationship between media culture and social power and considers how social and technological changes impact on the ways in which identity is experienced in everyday life. On successful completion of this module, students should be able, at threshold level, to critically reflect upon the ways in which media texts construct social identity and should be able to discuss the relationship between media and identity with awareness for social, institutional and technological factors that shape both media production and consumption. | ||
| TOPICS IN BRITISH POLITICS | PSI-2A16 | 20 |
| This unit examines in some depth four issues or topics in British politics or government. Topics recently covered include the reform of Parliament including the Lords, changing patterns of electoral behaviour, the issue of electoral reform and the changing role of the Prime Minister. | ||
Free Choice Study (20 credits)
Students will select modules worth 20 credits from the course catalogue with the approval of their School
Compulsory Study (20 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 20 credits:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BUILDING BLOCKS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE | PSI-2A48 | 20 |
| The aim of this module is to introduce students to the key theoretical issues and debates that underpin the discipline of political science so that students understand the main methodological and ideological approaches to political science. It will also be of relevance to international relations students. The module will provide important foundations for the remainder of the politics major degree. It will be one of two compulsory modules for single honours Politics students. The first half of the module will focus on meta-theoretical concerns such as how to compare political phenomena and systems, ideas and material explanation, structure and agency, epistemology and ontology. The second part of the module will be concerned with the way in which these issues inform empirical political analysis. It covers the key empirical debates in political science about power, representation, accountability and policy making in the western democracies. | ||
Option A Study (60 credits)
Students will select 60 credits from the following modules:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ANGLO-SAXON ENGLAND, C. 500-1066 | HISH2A93 | 20 |
| This is a general survey module of the history of England from the arrival of the English in Britain in the fifth century until the end of the eleventh century and the conquest by the Normans. We shall cover topics such as the conversion of the English in the seventh century, the domination of England by Mercia in the eighth century, the Viking invasions and the reign of Alfred the Great, the emergence of Wessex as the dominant force in England in the tenth century, the conquest of England by the Danes in the eleventh century and the Norman Conquest of England. | ||
| ANGLO-SAXON ENGLAND, C. 500-1066 (CW) | HISH2A93C | 20 |
| This unit is a coursework-only version of HISH2A93C ANGLO-SAXON ENGLAND, c. 500-1066 and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| CONSPIRACY AND CRISIS IN EARLY MODERN ENGLAND | HISH2H08 | 20 |
| Assassination. Foreign invasion. Revolt and rebellion. Political and religious plots loomed large and posed a constant threat in Early Modern England. Conspiracy was not simply an imagined threat nor did it exist in theory; it was a social and political reality that elicited fear, shaped policies and gave rise to self-fulfilling prophecies. Did the greatest threat of subversion come from popular uprisings, foreign invasion or from the heart of the British government? From Mary, Queen of Scots and the Gunpowder Plot to the hidden agenda of Charles I, this module will survey a series of popular, elite and royalist conspiracies. Moving behind official narratives, it will draw on a host of resources to investigate alternative explanations for crisis over power, authority and legitimacy during this period. Each conspiracy will provide and point of entry into broader changes in early modern society as the crown and commons reimagined and realigned political, religious and social boundaries. | ||
| CONSPIRACY AND CRISIS IN EARLY MODERN ENGLAND (CW) | HISH2H08C | 20 |
| Assassination. Foreign invasion. Revolt and rebellion. Political and religious plots loomed large and posed a constant threat in Early Modern England. Conspiracy was not simply an imagined threat nor did it exist in theory; it was a social and political reality that elicited fear, shaped policies and gave rise to self-fulfilling prophecies. Did the greatest threat of subversion come from popular uprisings, foreign invasion or from the heart of the British government? From Mary, Queen of Scots and the Gunpowder Plot to the hidden agenda of Charles I, this module will survey a series of popular, elite and royalist conspiracies. Moving behind official narratives, it will draw on a host of resources to investigate alternative explanations for crisis over power, authority and legitimacy during this period. Each conspiracy will provide and point of entry into broader changes in early modern society as the crown and commons reimagined and realigned political, religious and social boundaries. This module is only available to non-HIS and visiting students. | ||
| EARLY MEDIEVAL EUROPE | HISH2B13 | 20 |
| This module focuses on the geographical area covered by the Carolingian Empire - that is, the modern territorial units of France, Germany, Italy, and the Benelux countries. It begins in the late sixth century with the Merovingian dynasty and ends with the reform of the Papacy and the first crusade at the end of the 11th century. | ||
| EARLY MEDIEVAL EUROPE (CW) | HISH2B13C | 20 |
| This unit is a coursework-only version of HISH2B13 EARLY MEDIEVAL EUROPE and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| FROM AGINCOURT TO BOSWORTH: ENGLAND IN THE WARS OF THE ROSES | HISH2B18 | 20 |
| Through a close examination of the lives and reigns of four very different monarchs this unit investigates the workings of kingship and high politics in one of the most turbulent periods of English History (1415-1485). New interpretations of the Wars of the Roses, as well as original source material, will be studied. | ||
| FROM AGINCOURT TO BOSWORTH: ENGLAND IN THE WARS OF THE ROSES | HISH2B18C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B18 FROM AGINCOURT TO BOSWORTH: ENGLAND IN THE WARS OF THE ROSES and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting students. | ||
| HERITAGE AND PUBLIC HISTORY | HISH2H05 | 20 |
| Public history is history in the public sphere, whether in museums and galleries, heritage sites and historic houses, radio and television broadcasting, film, popular history books, or public policy within government. In the UK, it is a new and burgeoning area of academic interest and debate. The central challenge and task of public history is making history relevant and accessible to its audience of people outside academia, whilst adhering to an academically credible historical method. This module explores the theory and practice of public history in heritage, broadcasting and publication. The first half of the module considers the principles of visitor interpretation, museology and curatorship, asking questions such as, how is the past used? What is authenticity? What decisions are made in the presentation and interpretation of museums and historic houses? Must public – or popular – history mean ‘dumbing down’, or can we satisfy the public’s curiosity about the past in a way that also satisfies us as historians? The second half of the module seriously engages with the challenge of how to represent history in television documentaries, radio broadcasts, mainstream cinema, in the making of public policy, and as popular history or historical fiction. Outside speakers – chosen from curators, interpreters, producers, and popular historians and broadcasters – will lecture as part of this course. The course will also involve a field trip to Hampton Court Palace. | ||
| IMPERIAL RUSSIAN AND SOVIET HISTORY 1861, - 1941 | HISH2D89C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2D89 IMPERIAL RUSSIAN AND SOVIET HISTORY and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| IMPERIAL RUSSIAN AND SOVIET HISTORY, 1861-1945 | HISH2D89 | 20 |
| This module examines some of the main themes in Russian history between the Emancipation of the Serfs and the outbreak of the Second World War. We will look at the nature of industrialisation and the peasant economy, the autocracy and its fall in 1917, the revolutionary movement and the nationalities question. We will then examine how the Revolution of 1917 changed the state and the ways in which the Communists attempted to change society before 1929. We conclude by examining the country during the era of the five year plans and the impact of the Stalinist system on the Soviet Union before the outbreak of world war. | ||
| LANDSCAPE I: STRUCTURES OF LANDSCAPE | HISH2A51 | 20 |
| This unit will examine the development of the English landscape from early prehistoric times to the late Saxon period. We will examine the field archaeology of the Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Ages, discuss in some detail the landscapes of Roman Britain, and assess the nature of the Roman/Saxon transition. We will then investigate the development of territorial organisation, field systems and settlement patterns during the Middle and later Saxon periods. The unit provides an introduction to archaeological theory and methods, as well as giving a broad overview of the development of society, economy and environment in the period before the Norman Conquest. | ||
| LANDSCAPE I: STRUCTURES OF LANDSCAPE | HISH2A51C | 20 |
| This unit is a coursework-only version of HISH2A51 LANDSCAPE I and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| LANDSCAPE II (CW) | HISH2A52C | 20 |
| This unit will examine the development of the English countryside from late Saxon times into the eighteenth century. Topics covered will include medieval settlement and field systems, medieval and post medieval earthworks, woods and wood-pastures, enclosure, walls and hedges, the archaeology of houses, and vernacular houses. There will be a substantial practical component to the unit, involving the analysis of earthworks, hedges and woods, early maps and aerial photographs. | ||
| LANDSCAPE II : BUILT AND SEMI-NATURAL ENVIRONMENTS | HISH2A52 | 20 |
| This module will examine the development of the English countryside from late Saxon times into the eighteenth century. Topics covered will include woods and wood-pastures, enclosure, walls and hedges, the archaeology of churches and vernacular houses. There will be a substantial practical component to the module, involving the analysis of buildings, hedges and woods and other semi-natural environments. | ||
| LATER MEDIEVAL EUROPE | HISH2A94 | 20 |
| This module focuses on the political, cultural and social history of later medieval Europe (c. 1100-c. 1500) looking particularly at France and Italy. We discuss the formation of cities, the position of the papacy, lay piety, the role of women, and other related topics. | ||
| LATER MEDIEVAL EUROPE (CW) | HISH2A94C | 20 |
| This is a coursework-only version of HISH2A94 LATER MEDIEVAL EUROPE and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting students. | ||
| LATIN FOR HISTORIANS | HISH2A62 | 20 |
| The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to the linguistic skills in medieval Latin which enable students to read administrative documents such as charters, accounts, court rolls, etc. It is particularly suited for those who contemplate proceeding to the MA pathways in Medieval History or in Local and Regional History. | ||
| MEDICINE & SOCIETY BEFORE THE 17TH CENTURY | HISH2B95C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework only version of HISH2B95: MEDICINE AND SOCIETY BEFORE THE 17TH CENTURY and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting Students. | ||
| MEDICINE AND GENDER | HISH2B97 | 20 |
| This module offers a broad historical treatment of gender issues in medicine, examining women as providers and recipients of healthcare from Ancient Greece to the NHS. Topics for study include the female body, obstetrics and gynaecology, the female healer and the medical profession, women, witchcraft and popular healing, scientific medicine and professionalisation, nurses, nursing and reform, and women's health. | ||
| MEDICINE AND GENDER (CW) | HISH2B97C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B97 MEDICINE AND GENDER and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| MEDICINE AND SOCIETY BEFORE THE 17TH CENTURY | HISH2B95 | 20 |
| This module examines the theory and practice of medicine at all levels of English society during the medieval and early modern periods, and assesses the impact of medical ideas upon religious literary and political thought. Topics include: the emergence of a healing profession and its attempts to secure a monopoly of practice; the role of women as both patients and practitioners; theories about the spread of disease and necessary measures for public health; medicine and the Church; and attitudes to mortality. Edited versions of original documents are used. | ||
| MEDICINE AND SOCIETY IN MODERN BRITAIN | HISH2B96 | 20 |
| This module considers the practice of medicine in Britain from the eighteenth century to the establishment of the NHS. Themes include the impact of science and professions, the organisation and control aspects of medical and hospital services and healthcare as seen by sufferers and patients. In the context of background trends in social history, students can follow up special interests (eg, gender issues, rural services) in essay topics. | ||
| MEDICINE AND SOCIETY IN MODERN BRITAIN (CW) | HISH2B96C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B96 MEDICINE AND SOCIETY IN MODERN BRITAIN and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| MODERN GERMANY, 1866-1945 | HISH2D53 | 20 |
| The history of few countries is as dramatic as that of modern Germany in the 19th and 20th centuries. This module will examine the making of the German nation, the political consequences of Germany's transformation into an industrial superpower, why Germany plunged Europe into war in 1914, whether Weimar democracy had any chance of survival, the relationship of people to regime in Nazi Germany, what in Germany's history produced a regime as barbarous and destructive as that of Adolf Hitler, and the impact of Nazism on Germany since 1945. | ||
| MODERN GERMANY, 1866-1945 | HISH2D53C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2D53 MODERN GERMANY, 1866-1945 and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| MODERN ITALY, 1860-1945 | HISH2E08 | 20 |
| This module studies the social, political and economic history of Italy from its unification in 1860 until the end of the Second World War. It will begin by looking at the process of unification, the difficulties encountered in governing the new nation-state and the problems of uneven social and economic modernisation. The module then focuses on the First World War and the rise of Fascism after 1918, before assessing the nature of Mussolini's regime and the reasons for its downfall. | ||
| MODERN ITALY, 1860-1945 | HISH2E08C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2E08 MODERN ITALY, 1860-1945 and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| NAPOLEON TO STALIN: THE STRUGGLE FOR MASTERY IN EUROPE | HISH2D02 | 20 |
| This module deals with the rivalries of the Great Powers from the end of the Napoleonic Wars to the onset of the Cold War. We shall be examining topics such as the Vienna system, the Crimean War, Italian and German Unification, the origins of the First and Second World Wars and the start of the Cold War. | ||
| NORMAN AND PLANTAGENET ENGLAND, 1066-1307 | HISH2B12 | 20 |
| This module follows the history of England from the Norman Conquest of 1066 down to the death of Edward 1 in 1307. The aim of this module is to look at the political, ecclesiastical, social and intellectual history of England in this period and to place English history in the wider context of European history in the Middle Ages. | ||
| NORMAN AND PLANTAGENET ENGLAND, 1066-1307 | HISH2B12C | 20 |
| This unit is a coursework-only version of HISH2B12 NORMAN AND PLANTAGENET ENGLAND, 1066-1307 and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| QUEENS, COURTESANS AND COMMONERS: WOMEN AND GENDER IN EARLY MODERN EUROPE | HISH2F25 | 20 |
| This module examines the issue of gender in European history, between 1500 and 1750. Using a variety of written and visual sources, and including a comparative element, it focuses on the following themes: definitions of femininity and masculinity; life-cycles; family, kinship, and marriage; social exclusion, charity and the welfare state; law, crime, and order; witchcraft and magic; honour, sex, and sexual identities; work; learning and the arts; material culture; the impact of European expansions. | ||
| QUEENS, COURTESANS AND COMMONERS: WOMEN AND GENDER IN EARLY MODERN EUROPE (CW) | HISH2F25C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework only version of HISH2F25 WOMEN AND GENDER IN EARLY MODERN EUROPE and is available only to NON-HUM and Visiting Students. | ||
| REFORMATION TO REVOLUTION | HISH2H01 | 20 |
| This module examines three centuries of European history connecting two unprecedented revolutionary epochs: the Reformation of the sixteenth century and the American and French revolutions at the end of the early modern era. We will look at key themes and movements in these centuries, including the politics of the Reformation; the Mediterranean work of the Ottomans and Habsburg Spain; the Dutch Golden Age; the great political and religious struggles of the seventeenth century, including wars in the British Isles, the Holy Roman Empire, and the Baltic; the Russia of the Romanov czars and Peter the Great; the growth of centralised states and absolutism in France, Prussia and Austria; the Enlightenment; the rise of the Atlantic economies; and the challenge to the Old Regime from revolutionary politics. | ||
| REFORMATION TO REVOLUTION | HISH2H01C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework only version of HISH2H01 REFORMATION TO REVOLUTION and is available only to NON-HUM and Visiting Students. | ||
| SEMESTER STUDY ABROAD (AUTUMN SEMESTER) | HISH2X05 | 60 |
| X05 This module offers HIS students on the V100 programme the opportunity to spend the Autumn semester of their second year studying abroad, either in a European university, as part of the ERASMUS scheme, or in a selected North American or Australian university approved by the School’s Director of Teaching. | ||
| SEMESTER STUDY ABROAD (SPRING SEMESTER) | HISH2X04 | 60 |
| X04 This module offers HIS students on the V100 programme the opportunity to spend the Spring semester of their second year studying abroad, either in a European university, as part of the ERASMUS scheme, or in a selected North American or Australian university approved by the School’s Director of Teaching. | ||
| THE BRITISH EMPIRE, 1857-1956 | HISH2B74 | 20 |
| This module surveys the history of the British Empire from the mid-nineteenth century to the Suez Crisis, seeking to explain the Empire's growth and the early stages of its contraction. It examines the nature and impact of British colonial rule, at the political, economic and social/cultural levels, addressing the development of the 'settler' colonies/Dominions, the special significance of India and the implications of the 'New Imperialism'. Problems to be considered include theories of 'development' and 'collaboration', the growth of resistance and nationalism, and Britain's responses to these, and the impacts of the two World Wars and the Cold War on Britain's Imperial system. | ||
| THE BRITISH EMPIRE, 1857-1956 | HISH2B74C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B74 THE BRITISH EMPIRE and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting students. | ||
| THE DUCHESS OF DEVONSHIRE TO NANCY ASTOR: WOMEN, POWER AND POLITICS | HISH2H12 | 20 |
| This module explores female involvement in politics, from the Duchess of Devonshire’s infamous activities in the 1784 Westminster election until 1919, when Nancy Astor became the first woman to take her seat in the House of Commons. It will examine topics including the early feminists, aristocratic female politicians, radical politics and the suffragettes. It will investigate the changes and continuities with female engagement with the political process from the eighteenth century through to the twentieth century. | ||
| THE DUCHESS OF DEVONSHIRE TO NANCY ASTOR: WOMEN, POWER AND POLITICS | HISH2H12C | 20 |
| This module explores female involvement in politics, from the Duchess of Devonshire’s infamous activities in the 1784 Westminster election until 1919, when Nancy Astor became the first woman to take her seat in the House of Commons. It will examine topics including the early feminists, aristocratic female politicians, radical politics and the suffragettes. It will investigate the changes and continuities with female engagement with the political process from the eighteenth century through to the twentieth century. This module is only available to non-HIS and visiting students. | ||
| THE ENGLISH CIVIL WARS | HISH2H10 | 20 |
| This module looks at the causes, course and significance at what, in terms of relative population loss was probably the single most devastating conflict in English history; the civil wars of 1642-6, 1648 and 1651. In those years, families, villages and towns were divided by political allegiances and military mobilisation. Hundreds of thousands died, not just from warfare, but also from the spread of infectious disease, siege and the disruption of food supplies. In the rest of the British Isles, suffering was even more profound. The execution of the King in 1649, intended to bring an end to the wars, divided the country ever more deeply. By the late 1640s, radical social groups had emerged who questioned the very basis of authority in Early Modern Society, and made arguments for democracy and for the redistribution of land and power. Karl Marx thought that English revolution marked the beginnings of capitalism. Was he right? Focussing on ordinary men and women as well as upon important generals, politicians and monarchs, this module examines the following issues: the causes of the civil war; the reign of Charles I; the start of the warfare in Ireland and Scotland; the outbreak of the English Civil war; the course of the war; popular allegiances – why did ordinary people fight?; the Levellers, Diggers and Ranters; the crisis of 1647-9; the trial and execution of Charles I; gender, women and revolution; the experience of warfare; print and popular political gossip; the failure of the English Republic and the Restoration of Charles II. Particular use will be made of the primary source extracts and web resources. | ||
| THE ENGLISH CIVIL WARS (CW) | HISH2H10C | 20 |
| This module looks at the causes, course and significance at what, in terms of relative population loss was probably the single most devastating conflict in English history; the civil wars of 1642-6, 1648 and 1651. In those years, families, villages and towns were divided by political allegiances and military mobilisation. Hundreds of thousands died, not just from warfare, but also from the spread of infectious disease, siege and the disruption of food supplies. In the rest of the British Isles, suffering was even more profound. The execution of the King in 1649, intended to bring an end to the wars, divided the country ever more deeply. By the late 1640s, radical social groups had emerged who questioned the very basis of authority in Early Modern Society, and made arguments for democracy and for the redistribution of land and power. Karl Marx thought that English revolution marked the beginnings of capitalism. Was he right? Focussing on ordinary men and women as well as upon important generals, politicians and monarchs, this module examines the following issues: the causes of the civil war; the reign of Charles I; the start of the warfare in Ireland and Scotland; the outbreak of the English Civil war; the course of the war; popular allegiances – why did ordinary people fight?; the Levellers, Diggers and Ranters; the crisis of 1647-9; the trial and execution of Charles I; gender, women and revolution; the experience of warfare; print and popular political gossip; the failure of the English Republic and the Restoration of Charles II. Particular use will be made of the primary source extracts and web resources. This module is only available to non-HIS and visiting students. | ||
| THE PAPACY, CHRISTIANITY AND THE STATE, 1050-1300 | HISH2A10 | 20 |
| In these centuries the pope became the most influential figure in Europe. He could depose emperors, mobilise vast armies to fight on crusade, and intervene in disputes in far-away realms. This module explores the origins of papal power and its impact on emerging nations in the west. | ||
| THE PAPACY, CHRISTIANITY AND THE STATE, 1050-1300 | HISH2A10C | 20 |
| This unit is a coursework-only version of HISH2A10 THE PAPACY, CHRISTIANITY AND THE STATE, 1050-1300 and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting students. | ||
| THE POWER OF THE PAST: MEMORY AND HISTORY | HISH2E02 | 20 |
| Ideas about the past have often been very political. This unit looks at popular ideas about history. The first part of the unit focuses on modern Britain and Europe c. 1848-1991. The second part of the unit looks at a range of case studies from earlier periods. | ||
| THE RISE AND FALL OF BRITISH POWER | HISH2B57 | 20 |
| This module examines Britain's expansion and decline as a great power, from the end of the Napoleonic Wars to the 1950s. It considers the foundations of British power, the emergence of rivals, Britain's relationship with the European powers and the USA, and the impact of two World Wars and Cold War. It investigates the reasons for Britain's changing fortunes, as it moved from guarding the balance of power to lowing its empire. | ||
| THE RISE AND FALL OF BRITISH POWER | HISH2B57C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B57 THE RISE AND FALL OF BRITISH POWER and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| TUDOR AND STUART ENGLAND | HISH2B35 | 20 |
| This module seeks to identify patterns of continuity and change in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, with a view to defining the early modern period in practice. Through an examination of both political and constitutional history from the top down, and social and cultural history from the bottom up, it seeks to understand the period dynamically, in terms of new and often troubled relationships which were formed between governors and governed. Topics include: Tudor monarchy, the Protestant Reformation, the social order, popular religion and literacy, riot and rebellion, the Stuart state, the civil wars, crime and the law, women and gender. | ||
| TUDOR AND STUART ENGLAND | HISH2B35C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B35 TUDOR AND STUART ENGLAND and is available only to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| TWENTIETH-CENTURY BRITAIN: 1914 TO THE PRESENT | HISH2G01 | 20 |
| This module examines the themes of conflict and consensus in Britain from the Great War to the present day, both through the study of political life and also by assessing the impact of economic, social and cultural change. There are opportunities to re-evaluate issues such as the impact of war on society, “landmark” General Elections such as those of 1945 and 1979, the nature and durability of consensus politics in the 1950s, or Britain’s role in the contemporary world. | ||
| TWENTIETH-CENTURY BRITAIN: 1914 TO THE PRESENT | HISH2G01C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2G01 TWENTIETH-CENTURY BRITAIN, 1914 TO THE PRESENT and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting students. | ||
| VICTORIAN BRITAIN | HISH2B73 | 20 |
| This module will examine the leading themes in British history during Victoria's reign (1837-1901). It will include political, social, economic, religious, urban, gender and intellectual topics. | ||
| VICTORIAN BRITAIN | HISH2B73C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2B73 VICTORIAN BRITAIN and is only available to non-HIS and Visiting students. | ||
| WAR AND PEACE SINCE 1945 | HISH2G02 | 20 |
| This module analyses the use and non-use of force in inter-state relations. It first asks why wars occur between states and examines the political, legal and ethical constraints on military action. We then consider peaceful alternatives and civil society. The themes include: the causes of wars; the history of warfare; the Cold War; nuclear strategy and arms control; the laws of war; peace theories; UN peacekeeping; disarmament, and non-violent resistance | ||
| WAR AND PEACE SINCE 1945 | HISH2G02C | 20 |
| This module is a coursework-only version of HISH2G02C WAR AND PEACE SINCE 1945 and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting students. | ||
Option B Study (20 credits)
Students will select 20 credits from the following modules:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BRITAIN AND EUROPE | PSI-2A32 | 20 |
| The UK’s relationship with its European neighbours has historically been fraught with tension and difficulty. This module investigates and attempts to explain Britain’s ambivalent attitude towards European integration. Considering competing visions of Britain’s post-war destiny, it tracks, through an examination of internal debates in the two main political parties, the UK’s changing European policy from aloofness in the 1950s through the two half-hearted applications for membership in the 1960s to accession in 1973 and the development thereafter of its reputation as an ‘awkward partner’. It examines the impact of EU membership on British politics and the British political system, assesses the success of Britain’s efforts to shape the EU agenda, and critically evaluates arguments for and against British membership, including those concerning British exceptionalism. | ||
| BUILDING BLOCKS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE | PSI-2A48 | 20 |
| The aim of this module is to introduce students to the key theoretical issues and debates that underpin the discipline of political science so that students understand the main methodological and ideological approaches to political science. It will also be of relevance to international relations students. The module will provide important foundations for the remainder of the politics major degree. It will be one of two compulsory modules for single honours Politics students. The first half of the module will focus on meta-theoretical concerns such as how to compare political phenomena and systems, ideas and material explanation, structure and agency, epistemology and ontology. The second part of the module will be concerned with the way in which these issues inform empirical political analysis. It covers the key empirical debates in political science about power, representation, accountability and policy making in the western democracies. | ||
| COMPARATIVE POLITICS | PSI-2A45 | 20 |
| The aim of this module is to enable students to develop understanding of political systems in advanced Western states. Students graduating from the module will be able to demonstrate: - critical understanding of the main theories, models and concepts applied in the analysis of political systems and their comparison - knowledge of national political systems and their institutional dynamics, political processes and debates concerning the emergence of new political regimes, the politics of territory, parties and party systems, political leadership, legislatures, interest groups, the state and public policy, and identity and citizenship; - critical awareness of current debates in comparative politics - key skills, including critical evaluation, analytical investigation, written presentation, and oral communication | ||
| CONSUMER CULTURE AND SOCIETY | PSI-2A50 | 20 |
| This module explores the significance of consumption as a major form of social life. Drawing on a variety of theoretical perspectives, including sociology and cultural studies, it examines how taste, style and identity are defined by consumption and explores how consumerism ties in with wider debates about globalisation and geo- politics. In your assignments you will be asked to apply your knowledge of different theoretical perspectives and critically analyse specific examples of consumerism. | ||
| DEMOCRATIC THEORY | PSI-2A24 | 20 |
| This module considers how the concept of democracy has changed since it originated in ancient Greece and looks at the critiques of democracy advanced by its opponents. The ideas and values underpinning democracy will be examined. The first part of the module focuses on texts by the major democratic thinkers including Locke, Rousseau and Mill. The second part concentrates on contemporary theories of democracy and examines the problems which democracy currently faces and evaluates the solutions proposed, including "electronic democracy" and "cosmopolitan democracy". | ||
| EU'S FUTURE AS AN INTERNATIONAL ACTOR | PSI-2A08 | 20 |
| The module focuses on European political co-operation at the turn of the century and projections into the future. Issues include: the EU as mediator in international conflicts such as the Gulf War, Bosnia and Kosovo - the EU as a viable economic power vis-a-vis the United States and Japan - the EU as the second largest developmental aid-donor to the Third World and a pioneering force behind environmental policy and energy policy - the EU as a hesitant superpower in security and defence (Iraq, Iran, terrorism, etc.). It is advisable - but not compulsory - to have taken another EU-related module prior to embarking on this one. | ||
| GLOBAL POLITICAL ECONOMY | PSI-2A51 | 20 |
| This module serves as an introduction to one of the core subfields of international relations, Global Political Economy (GPE), which examines the complex interplay of wealth and power in the evolution of global social order. Students will learn the basics of a political economy approach in evaluating how scarcity and production influence the dynamics of the interstate system. During the semester students will engage with the principal theories of GPE, learn about the rise and consolidation of the current international economic architecture, and explore key issues confronting the contemporary global political economy. In particular, we will look at the challenges posed by global inequality, financial crises and the spectre of ecological catastrophe. | ||
| GLOBAL POLITICAL ECONOMY (CW) | PSI-2A51C | 20 |
| This is a CW variant of PSI-2A51: Global Political Economy which is only available for PSI students undertaking the Study Abroad module in the Spring semester. | ||
| INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS | PSI-2A30 | 20 |
| There are few areas of international politics that remain unregulated by international organisations or informal norms. This module examines the historical development of international organizations, including the UN, NATO, the IMF and the World Bank. It looks at why sovereign states decide to establish international organizations, the factors that determine their design and evolution, and the extent to which their operation reflects underlying power and interests. It critically evaluates the main theories used to explain cooperation between states and the development of international institutions, examines the role played by international organisations in security, trade, finance, gender and environmental policy, and asks whether global governance is possible. | ||
| INTERNATIONAL POLITICS SINCE 1945 | PSI-2A07 | 20 |
| This module provides a brief historical and theoretical review of the cold war. It then goes on to look at some of the key issues of the post-cold war world. How far have international relations changed since the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989? What are the prospects for peace, stability and prosperity now that the ideological and military struggle between the USSR and the USA is over? | ||
| INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS THEORY | PSI-2A47 | 20 |
| This module will give students an essential grounding in International Relations theory, encompassing both the foundational theories of realism and liberalism, and contemporary debates about hegemony, neo-imperialism and post-positivism. The module is structured around the rationalist-reflectivist divide and starts with classical realism and neo-realism, and liberalism and neo-liberalism. It then explores the English School and constructivism before turning to more critical theories like historical materialism and neo-Marxism. Finally, this module turns to theories which are more reflectivist: post-colonialism, feminism and gender studies, post-structuralism and Foucault, and critical theory. This module will be taught predominantly using lectures and seminars but will make use, where appropriate, of film and documentaries in order to explore different theoretical schools, both thematically and empirically. | ||
| INTERNATIONAL SECURITY AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION | PSI-2A34 | 20 |
| This module will offer an examination of the ways in which violent conflict and the use of force are managed in world politics. The module surveys a variety of perspectives on the causes of war and peace in order to better examine the roots of violent conflicts and security problems in the present day. | ||
| INTRODUCTION TO MIDDLE EAST POLITICS | PSI-2A46 | 20 |
| This module provides a historical background to the Middle East and its politics. It is concerned with politics within the region as well as relations between Middle Eastern countries and Western powers. The module encourages students to think critically about the links between some key concepts in the comparative politics of non-Western countries, including historical processes of state formation, the legacy of colonialism/neo-colonialism, the role of culture and identity and the significance of natural resources and economic factors. | ||
| INTRODUCTION TO THE EUROPEAN UNION | PSI-2A05 | 20 |
| This module examines the development, structure, nature, and functions of the European Union. It looks at the history and theories of European Integration from its inception to the present day. The module concentrates on the institutions and processes which run the EU, demystifies its main policies, including the Common Agricultural, Regional and other Policies, examines critically the process of Monetary Integration and the role of the euro in the European economy, and assesses the positions of the member-states on the EU's constantly developing agenda with a spotlight on issues of contention such as a Constitution for Europe. | ||
| METHODS OF SOCIAL RESEARCH | PSI-2A13 | 20 |
| Students learn how to do research by engaging in a research project. A variety of research skills can be acquired - interviewing, observation, taking fieldwork notes, computerised data analysis, report writing etc. | ||
| NEW MEDIA AND SOCIETY | PSI-2A27 | 20 |
| For better or worse, new digital technologies are hyped at having revolutionised society. This module will provide students with an introduction to the ways in which the internet and other digital technologies are (and are not) affecting society from theoretical and empirical perspectives, and how society shapes technology. Topics covered include: the evolution of the internet; the "network society"; regulating new media; the radical internet and terrorism; social networking, blogs and interactivity; culture and identity in the digital age; and how the internet affects politics and the media. . | ||
| POLITICS AND MASS MEDIA | PSI-2A02 | 20 |
| Mass media are an inescapable part of contemporary political life. This module examines the effect of mass media on political activity, considering their influence on voter behaviour, party campaigning and government practices. It also looks at the political values expressed within mass media and the political control exercised over mass media. | ||
| POLITICS IN THE USA | PSI-2A03 | 20 |
| Virtually alone among the world's modern democratic nations, the US does not have parliamentary government. This unit is an introduction to the American system, in which power is divided between state and federal authorities, and further among legislative, executive and judicial branches. Does this open-textured system encourage democratic participation? Has it become so chaotic that sound policy making is discouraged? The coursework in the unit will consist of a number of short essays. A coursework-only version is also available. | ||
| POLITICS IN THE USA (CW) | PSI-2A03C | 20 |
| This is a coursework-only version of PSI-2A03 Politics in the USA. THIS COURSEWORK VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING STUDENTS. | ||
| POWER AND SOCIETY | PSI-2A35 | 20 |
| This module introduces students to some of the key perspectives in social and political theory. Central to this module is an interest in the relationship between economic, social and cultural structures and individual agency and identity. Themes explored in this module may include the following: structuralism, social conflict and consensus; Marxist approaches to ideology and power; structuralism; poststructuralism and language; ideology and discourse; the end of ideology; postmodernity; the self and consumer society. | ||
| RUSSIAN POLITICS | PSI-2A04 | 20 |
| In the first half of this module students study the rise and fall of communism in the Soviet Union. The module then goes on to consider the problems faced by post-Soviet Russia as it seeks to transform itself into a liberal democracy and a functioning market-economy. The module shows that many of the difficulties of transition currently confronting Russia are a result of its Soviet past. | ||
| STUDY ABROAD MODULE | PSI-2A18 | 60 |
| The School of PSI has various arrangements with overseas Universities where it is possible to spend a semester studying abroad. For more information on this please contact the PSI Teaching Director, Dr T Dant - or the UPO HUM Office. | ||
| STUDY ABROAD MODULE | PSI-2A19 | 60 |
| The School of PSI has various arrangements with overseas Universities where it is possible to spend a semester studying abroad. For more information on this please contact the PSI Teaching Director, Dr T Dant - or the UPO HUM Office. | ||
| THE MEDIA AND IDENTITY | PSI-2A26 | 20 |
| Drawing on a range of theoretical approaches in the field of media and cultural studies, this module explores the relationship between media culture and social identities. Discussing the representation of identity in media content, as well as issues of media production, regulation and consumption, it critically reflects upon the relationship between media culture and social power and considers how social and technological changes impact on the ways in which identity is experienced in everyday life. On successful completion of this module, students should be able, at threshold level, to critically reflect upon the ways in which media texts construct social identity and should be able to discuss the relationship between media and identity with awareness for social, institutional and technological factors that shape both media production and consumption. | ||
| TOPICS IN BRITISH POLITICS | PSI-2A16 | 20 |
| This unit examines in some depth four issues or topics in British politics or government. Topics recently covered include the reform of Parliament including the Lords, changing patterns of electoral behaviour, the issue of electoral reform and the changing role of the Prime Minister. | ||
Free Choice Study (20 credits)
Students will select modules worth 20 credits from the course catalogue with the approval of their School
Option A Study (60 credits)
Students will select 60 credits from the following modules:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BRITAIN AT WAR AND OTHER MODERN MYTHS | HIST3L4Y | 60 |
| This module invites students to critically analyse the prevailing historical narratives of twentieth-century Britain. It offers an understanding of the political uses of certain histories, shifts in meaning over time and preoccupations with the past in British politics and cultures. The module will set the heritage industry and the "memory boom" in the context of social, political, economic and cultural change. Students will have the opportunity to examine why particular events in British history - such as the Second World War - have become so central to British national identity. Using political speeches, film and television, private memoirs and state memorials, this module will uncover the power of historical consciousness and collective memory throughout twentieth century British history. | ||
| COLD WAR IN EUROPE | HIST3J4Y | 60 |
| This module will combine analysis of grand strategies and Cold War flashpoints with consideration of counter-culture and civilian resistance in Soviet-controlled Europe, and the circumstances which led to the peaceful end of the Cold War in 1989. | ||
| COMMUNISM AND NATIONALISM IN YUGOSLAVIA | HIST3H8Y | 60 |
| This module will look at the creation of the Communist state of Yugoslavia after the Second World War. We shall examine the course of the war and the bitter fighting between fascists, nationalists and communists which resulted in the eventual victory of the partisans led by Tito. After 1945, he and his followers built a state which survived until 1991. With the demise of Communism, Yugoslavia fragmented into new nations. In some cases this transition was largely peaceful, but the wars for independence in Croatia, Bosnia and Kosovo gave rise to the bloodiest fighting in Europe for decades. We shall look at the role of individuals and ideas, including the career of key figures such as Milosevic and end by assessing at the international community's response to the crimes committed in the former Yugoslavia at the Hague Tribunal. | ||
| DEATH, THE BODY AND DISEASE: FROM GALEN TO THE NHS | HIST3E5Y | 60 |
| Documents and a wide range of visual material from contemporary sources are used to examine the theory and practice of medieval and early modern medicine, focusing upon English and European society. Topics include changing perceptions of death, disease and the body, medicine and religion, the impact of medical ideas upon literary and political thought, public health, medical and surgical training, and women as healers and patients. This module examines a wide range of iconographic and archaeological sources, as well as documents in translation. | ||
| HENRY VIII: THE MAKING OF A TYRANT? | HIST3L2Y | 60 |
| The reign of Henry VIII was a major turning point in British history, and ‘bluff King Hal’ continues to horrify and fascinate us in equal measure. This special subject uses the preoccupations, ambitions, and character of Henry VIII as a route into the political, religious and cultural changes of this tumultuous period. Starting with the acclaimed young king, his Spanish bride, Katherine of Aragon, and his consummate minister, Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, the course works chronologically and thematically through to the declining years of Henry VIII’s reign, when a paranoid, obese and cruel monarch presided over an irrevocably changed religious and political landscape. It examines in detail the divorce crisis, the establishment of the Church of England, the Henrician Reformation, the politics and factionalism of the Court, war and foreign policy, magnificence, and opposition to the king, and engages with the intense historiographical debates on all these issues. The module considers some of the most colourful personalities in British history - Wolsey, More, Boleyn, Cromwell, and Cranmer - as well as structures, and the falls of Anne Boleyn and Thomas Cromwell are given particular attention. Finally, the module draws on material culture, art history, literature, film, and even dress, as well as relying on the more usual documentary sources, such as the State Papers. Above all, we will try to answer: did Henry VIII really become a tyrant? | ||
| ISOLATION TO WORLD WAR: BRITAIN AND THE ORIGINS OF WWI | HIST3G3Y | 60 |
| A double module special subject that examines the development of British foreign policy between 1880 and 1914. In the first semester we will undertake a detailed examination of Salisbury's foreign policy and the debate surrounding Britain's international 'isolation' up to the conclusion of the French entente. The second semester will see us examining the cause of British foreign policy under Sir Edward Grey until the outbreak of war in August 1914. It would be helpful (but not essential) to have done NAPOLEON TO STALIN and/or RISE AND FALL OF BRITISH POWER. | ||
| LANDSCAPE SPECIAL SUBJECT | HIST3A5Y | 60 |
| A special subject dealing with various types of landscapes found in England, and their development over time. In the first semester, Dr Liddiard will examine castles, monasteries and urban settlements in England and discuss the evidence for medieval designed landscapes. Dr Williamson considers the various kinds of rural landscape, paying particular attention to: designed landscapes (parks and gardens), wood-pasture countryside, marshes and fens, and landscapes of reclamation and enclosure. | ||
| STALIN AND STALINISM: THE USSR 1924-1953 | HIST3H6Y | 60 |
| This special subject will examine the Stalin era in the context of other 20th-century dictatorships. There will be a particular focus on: Stalin's rise to power; Stalin's revolution; terror and its impact on Soviet society; war and dictatorship; decline and fall - Stalin and destalinization. | ||
| THE DEVIL’S BROOD: THE ANGEVIN KINGS OF ENGLAND (1154-1225) | HIST3C1Y | 60 |
| This Special Subject focuses on the lives and actions of three of the most charismatic kings of the English. It begins by an examination of the creator of the Angevin dynasty, Henry fitz Empress, who, by the time he was twenty-one, dominated more than half of France as well as being king of the English. On the continent, Henry was a successful military commander; in England, he was the creator of the English common law and a centralising administration. And it was of him that St Bernard is supposed to have declared ‘he came from the Devil and he will go to the Devil’. His son and successor, Richard the Lionheart, was one of the greatest knights of his age as well as being a crusader and hugely successful military commander who seemingly placed the Angevin Empire on a solid footing. After these two great makers of empire, the third ruler of the dynasty almost brought the whole edifice crashing down. King John lost the continental lands, and by the time of his death his lands were being ravaged by a foreign prince, his barons were in revolt having gathered themselves behind a document we know as Magna Carta, and his dynasty on the verge of extinction. This Special Subject has at its core the story of the creation and near destruction of this dynasty; and seeks further to examine the politics, culture, and society of the lands over which the Angevin dynasty held sway. This was an age of profound intellectual, religious, and political change, and this Special Subject will be set within this wider context. Students will be expected to become conversant with the primary sources in translation and to be aware of current historiographical debates. Teaching will be through student-centred seminars. Students will be expected to do weekly gobbets both as a way of becoming familiar with the sources and as preparation for the examination. | ||
| THE ENGLISH IN AMERICA 1607-1692 | HIST3J2Y | 60 |
| This module explores the colonization of America by seventeenth-century English people. The memory of the Mayflower Pilgrims has obscured the fact that the first three generations remained English, unaware of the political and cultural distinctiveness to come. We will therefore be concerned with 'the repatriation of early American history'. We shall examine settlers' lives from the foundation of Jamestown in 1607, through the creation of Massachusetts in the 1630s, to the wars and rebellions of 1670-90. Not confined to New England, this module looks at a range of colonial experiences from Maine to the Caribbean, especially the mentalities of people moving between old and new worlds. | ||
| THE THIRD REICH | HIST3D6Y | 60 |
| This special subject makes extensive use of primary sources to examine: the ideology, structure and social base of the Nazi movement, the type of dictatorship it constructed during and after the seizure of power, the impact of the regime's policies on German society and on the Germans' relationship to Hitler, and the social, economic and political changes wrought by Germany's war of racial conquest, and the experience of the German 'home front' during the war. | ||
Option B Study (30 credits)
Students will select 30 credits from the following modules:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ANALYSING MEDIA DISCOURSES | PSI-3A41 | 30 |
| The module will explore some of the main approaches to the analysis of media texts including structuralism, psychoanalysis and discourse analysis. These approaches will be discussed in relation to films like James Bond, advertising campaigns like the ones by the United Colors of Benetton, and newspaper articles on current affairs. The aim of the module is to bring together theory and hands-on analysis and research in media products. | ||
| ANALYSING MEDIA DISCOURSES | PSI-3A43 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A41 Analysing Media Discourses. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| AUSTRALIA: POLITICS, CULTURE, SOCIETY | PSI-3A12 | 30 |
| This module examines the history, structures and key institutions of Australian government and their broader relationships with Australian society and culture. It has been argued Australia was manacled to its colonial past, and lacked innovation and proactivity. At the same time, the phrase, 'lucky country', has been used to project Australia as uniquely stable, politically, socially, and economically. Is this accurate? Some think so, attributing it to Australia's system of government: are they right? This module addresses such questions and, in its later stages, considers some of the challenges Australia faces, both internal and external, for example, regionalisation and globalisation. | ||
| AUSTRALIA: POLITICS, CULTURE, SOCIETY | PSI-3A28 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A12 AUSTRALIA: POLITICS, CULTURE, SOCIETY and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS | PSI-3A08 | 30 |
| Would an ideal society have no more crime? Who would be wealthy? Would politics be outlawed? How would we change relationships between the sexes if we could refashion society in a new, better image? Do all utopians secretly wish to impose their views on the rest of humankind? Do the flaws in human nature justify the pessimism of dystopian writers? The module compares selected utopian and dystopian texts produced during the last five centuries. Themes will include property, social control, gender, morality and politics. Another dimension of the module considers the purpose of utopian thinking and the historical role of utopian ideas in social theory and social reform. | ||
| BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS | PSI-3A24 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A08 BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| BROADCAST JOURNALISM | PSI-3A51 | 30 |
| Broadcast Journalism provides students with an overview of modern journalism practices and related production processes. The module will enable students to contextualise academic study and criticism of news gathering and presentation processes. Students will collaborate in producing short, broadcast-style news reports, which will be compiled into a magazine format programme (see, for example, BBC’s The One Show). First, students will be trained in the 'art' of journalism; the techniques and practices that are used to create reports. Second, students will be introduced to production skills including cameras, sound and editing. Students will be taught by highly experienced production and news journalists and use broadcast quality equipment. The practical teaching will be reinforced by instruction on the packaging and presentation of news and factual material for broadcasting purposes. | ||
| CAPITALISM AND ITS CRITICS | PSI-3A52 | 30 |
| The aim of this module is to enable students to develop an understanding of capitalism and its political and social impact. Students graduating from the module will be able to demonstrate: - critical understanding of the main theories, models and concepts applied in the analysis of capitalism - critical understanding of normative debates about capitalism - knowledge of the arguments made by advocates and critics of capitalism, with an awareness of their strengths and weaknesses | ||
| CAPITALISM AND ITS CRITICS | PSI-3A54 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A52 Capitalism and its Critics ,and is available only to Exchange, Visiting and Non HUM students. | ||
| DISSERTATION MODULE | PSI-3A0Y | 30 |
| This dissertation module gives students the opportunity to undertake research on a project of their own choosing under the supervision of a member of staff. The goal is to produce an extended essay of between 8,000-10,000 words, which relates in-depth research on a specialist topic to wider issues in politics, sociology and international studies. A limited number of parliamentary internships and an advertising internship are also available as part of this module. Students are supported by introductory workshops, seminars and tutorials. | ||
| EUROPEAN STUDIES (WITH BRUSSELS INTERNSHIP) | PSI-3A72 | 30 |
| This is an intensive module for ambitious and outstanding PSI students who demonstrate a strong commitment to wanting to work at the international level and who have the necessary language skills. It will provide unique opportunities to gain considerable insights into the working of the EU, to network and follow up job opportunities. Students interested in participating in the module will be asked to apply and selection will be based on merit. The module will involve 10 lectures and 10 seminars during the Spring Semester and a four week period in Brussels over the Easter 2011 UEA vacation break during which students will spend: • two days each week gaining work experience (unpaid) in the Brussels Office Partnership which represents and promotes the interests on the East of England; • one or two days a week on visits to organisations such as the UK Permanent Representation, European Commission, European Parliament, Committee of the Regions, NATO, and third sector bodies. These will include talks on specific issues such as EU trade policy, foreign and security policy, media, audiovisual, and environmental policies and how to obtain a job at the international level. A substantial contribution will be made towards the costs of accommodation in Brussels and for travel to and from Brussels, through an award which the School has received from the UEA Alumni Association. Students taking part will gain an advanced understanding of how the EU functions, lobbying and other organisations, including the role of regional offices, gain relevant work experience and establish a wide range of contacts. They will be able to articulate competing explanations for European integration and the relationship between Britain and the EU, and how the EU and its institutions interact, between themselves, with the member states and with other organisations. • Nationals of a member state of the European Economic Area • Fluency in English and some knowledge of a second language • Third Year PSI students only • Marks to date which indicate a student is heading for a 1st or good 2:1 Degree STUDENTS MUST SEE THE MODULE ORGANISER BEFORE ENROLLING ON THIS MODULE | ||
| IDEOLOGY, CULTURE AND REVOLUTION IN THE POLITICS OF THE MIDDLE EAST | PSI-3A53 | 30 |
| This module seeks to expand the knowledge and understanding of the contemporary politics of the Middle East acquired by students taking PSI-2A46. A main feature of this module is to allow students to delve into the complexities of political thought in the region. The aim of the module is to make students think critically about the ways in which political mobilisation functions in the modern Middle East. For this purpose the module will feature many examples of contemporary political ideologies that have constituted key political frameworks in the politics of the Middle East since the First World War. | ||
| IDEOLOGY, CULTURE AND REVOLUTION IN THE POLITICS OF THE MIDDLE EAST | PSI-3A55 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A53 Ideology, Culture and Revolution in the Politics of the Middle East. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| INTELLECTUALS AND US FOREIGN POLICY, 1880-2008 | PSI-3A48 | 30 |
| This module examines the ideas and influence of nine American foreign policy “intellectuals,” beginning with Alfred Mahan and concluding with Paul Wolfowitz. Why did each “intellectual” strike a particular chord at a particular time? Do individuals matter in the history of US foreign policy? How, and with what consequences, were these ideas translated into policy? This module will explore the origins of key US foreign policy concepts such as isolationism, internationalism, containment and “pre-emptive defence.” Aims of the Module • To introduce students to nine particular strains of US foreign policy ideology. • To encourage students to engage critically with the primary output of these “intellectuals” and to identify their strengths and weaknesses. • To stimulate students to consider whether these ideas have been manifested in policy, and to trace their impact. • To encourage students to develop their own foreign policy philosophy. | ||
| INTELLECTUALS AND US FOREIGN POLICY, 1880-2008 | PSI-3A50 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A48 Intellectuals and US Foreign Policy, 1880-2008. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| MULTICULTURALISM | PSI-3A38 | 30 |
| This module looks at the political implications of the rise of multicultural societies in Europe since the end of World War II. Canadian experience will also be given consideration because of its importance to these debates both as a practical model as well as a source of influential theorists. The aim is to introduce students to a range of contemporary theoretical and practical perspectives on multiculturalism and facilitate critical assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of competing approaches in the light of political variants such as nationalism and alternative forms of liberalism. Theorists under examination would include; Parekh, Kymlicka, Tully, Taylor and Miller as well as major liberal alternative views; Barry, Rawls and Raz. Among the module themes the following will be addressed; group rights; institutional racism, Islamophobia, multicultural federalism, recognition vs toleration. The module will also look at divergent policies adopted within European states (eg: France and Germany) and give attention to the attempts to operationalize multiculturalism in the UK in particular via the Parekh Report. | ||
| MULTICULTURALISM | PSI-3A40 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A38 Multiculturalism, and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| POLITICAL COMMUNICATION | PSI-3A10 | 30 |
| Political communication occurs on many different levels, and subsequently with different implications and effects. Political communication can be verbal or nonverbal by political actors or about political actors and systems. This module builds upon the Politics and Mass Media unit and explores the forms and impact of political communication. It will be organised around the themes of who communicates, whether that is the state, celebrities, media organisations, the message they communicate, and the effect this has on the receivers of the message. The module will address areas such as spin, globalisation, the role of the new media in order to explore the changing nature of political communication. | ||
| POLITICAL COMMUNICATION | PSI-3A26 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A10 POLITICAL COMMUNICATION and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting Students. | ||
| POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE ENVIRONMENT | PSI-3A44 | 30 |
| In an attempt to better understand the environmental dilemmas that confront us in the contemporary world, this module tries to move beyond the limitations of mainstream political and economic analyses. In coming to terms with the threats of environmental degradation and climate change, it tries to reawaken a broader type of ethical, natural and social theorisation that defined an earlier political economy. This is not a module on environmental or resource economics, nor are students expected to have an economics background. Rather, this module tries to understand social production as much more than a series of market relations. It tries to develop a broader socio-cultural understanding of production that "de-naturalises" the way we view and exploit the natural world. | ||
| POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE ENVIRONMENT | PSI-3A46 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A44 POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE ENVIRONMENT and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| POLITICS AND GOVERNANCE WITH INTERNSHIP (WORK BASED EXPERIENCE/EMPLOYABILITY TRAINING PROGRAMME) | PSI-3A80 | 30 |
| The module aims to provide a sound understanding of the ‘nuts and bolts’ of the different levels of government - local, regional, and national, and through the third sector – and how each contributes to democratic pluralism. It will relate public policy and administration taught in other modules to the organisation and structures of governance and also focus on career and job opportunities, and developing specific skills to enhance employability. Field trips and study visits will complement class-based teaching and ‘real world’ experience will be available through a short internship, other work based learning or an employability training programme to enable students to build a network of contacts, increase confidence, experience and the skills necessary to secure graduate employment. | ||
| POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE | PSI-3A23 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A37 POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE | PSI-3A37 | 30 |
| The module explores three issues: the role of popular culture in political thought and action, the political organisation of, and response to, popular culture, and the political meanings and interpretations placed upon popular culture. | ||
| POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA | PSI-3A29 | 30 |
| This module will introduce important themes in the American relationship with East Asia, at a time when the Pacific region has assumed great importance. There will be a particular focus on the important historical periods in the American relationship with China and Japan. An understanding of elements of the trajectory of these relationships will be provided by taking a selection of historical subjects for analysis. While this will address the knowledge of history, and of long-term themes, the latter part of the module will consider contemporary political issues. This will require an understanding of the interaction of the United States with Asia, and China and Japan in particular. | ||
| POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA | PSI-3A31 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A29 POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non HUM Students. | ||
| PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND POLITICS: INFLUENCING THE POLITICAL PROCESS | PSI-3A78 | 30 |
| This module enables students to understand the theory and practice of public affairs, interest intermediation, and the strategies used by interest and advocacy groups to influence the political process. As well as covering the main debates in the academic literature, it draws directly on the experience of practitioners and offers unique insights into this under-studied area of politics. Students graduating from this module will: • be able to demonstrate understanding of the theories, models and concepts of public affairs • be able to demonstrate understanding of the theories, models and concepts applied in the study of interest intermediation and lobbying • be able to demonstrate knowledge of public affairs and lobbying in a variety of political settings • have developed important key skills, including making oral presentations, that will be of use in employment. Indicative outline 1. Introduction. Public affairs: influencing the political process 2. Making policy: processes and decision points 3. Lobbyists, interest and advocacy groups 4. The art of public relations 5. Communications and marketing 6. Public affairs and the media 7. Influencing the political process I: Whitehall 8. Influencing the political process II: Westminster 9. Influencing the political process III: Brussels 10. Influencing the political process IV: Washington 11. Influencing the political process V: local government | ||
| RHETORIC: DEMOCRACY AND THE POLITICS OF PERSUASION | PSI-3A59 | 30 |
| Political activity involves a lot of talking, discussing and debating, speechifying, speaking and listening. In Parliaments, from public platforms and through many forms of media people try to persuade others to see things their way, to take their side and to adopt their proposals. Naturally, therefore, the form, function and implications of different forms of public argument are an important concern of political theorists and scientists. This course will explore some contemporary theorists who, in different ways, help us think through the politics of public speech and persuasion (Arendt, Dryzek, Laclau, Ranciere and others). It will also introduce you to the rhetorical tradition. Rhetoric, according to Aristotle, is “the ability to identify in any given case the available means of persuasion". In studying political rhetoric we learn about the different ways in which political arguments may be made and about how we might try to persuade particular people, about particular things at particular times. | ||
| THE CLASH OF FUNDAMENTALISMS | PSI-3A57 | 30 |
| This module examines the resurgence of religion as an issue in international relations. IR literature has tended to marginalise religion but the events of 9/11 and the growth of fundamentalism is refocusing attention on this important area. Using case studies this module critically analyses religion and international relations. | ||
| WE THE PEOPLE? PUBLICS, CROWDS AND DEMOCRACY | PSI-3A84 | 30 |
| This module examines the position of mass publics and collectives in democratic society, taking into consideration models of collective behaviour and some of the available empirical evidence. The module is all about the relationship between the individual and the group: how does that relationship work in different contexts, and what are the consequences for the democratic character of governance and the rationality or otherwise of collective decisions? Liberal theory has an ambiguous attitude to the ‘public’, portraying it as a source of legitimacy but also as a threatening and unreasoning force. We explore these issues in a variety of contexts: mass political movements, public opinion surveys, un-coordinated mass action such as moral panics and health scares, arts prize juries and political executives. We also look at whether mass publics can be manipulated and steered by the rhetoric of ‘leaders’ and by biases in the information environment. | ||
| WE THE PEOPLE? PUBLICS, CROWDS AND DEMOCRACY | PSI-3A86 | 20 |
| IN TAKING THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT TAKE PSI-3A84. This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A84 We the People? Publics, Crowds and Democracy. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON-HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT | PSI-3A01 | 30 |
| This Level 3 module examines in depth the works of selected thinkers who are seminal to the Western tradition of political thought, including Plato, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau and Marx. Their work will also be compared thematically, with a focus on ideas such as political obligation, authority, the state and freedom. The module will be based on the study and interpretation of key texts and will enable students to develop skills of textual analysis and critique. | ||
| WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT | PSI-3A17 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A01 WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-Hum Students. | ||
Option C Study (30 credits)
Students will select 30 credits from the following modules:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 'REDCOATS': BRITISH MILITARY POWER IN THE AGE OF THE FIRST GLOBAL WARS, 1754-1783 | HISH3F87C | 30 |
| This module concerns the experience of the British army in the period of the Seven Years War and American War of Independence. It will examine the organisation and conduct of war in both Europe and America from a British perspective and discuss how the British army coped with the demands of conducting operations in the era of the first truly 'global' wars. | ||
| A WORLD AT WAR | HISH3F01 | 30 |
| This module will consider the history of the Second World War from 1939 to 1945, looking at the decisive battles that settled its outcome. It interprets ‘battle’ in the widest sense and it will look at ‘classic’ land, sea and air encounters – from the fall of France to midway, Stalingrad and D Day – and also at the other critical battles such as the battle of production, the Home Front and the technological battle, from Enigma to the atomic bomb | ||
| ANALYSING MEDIA DISCOURSES | PSI-3A41 | 30 |
| The module will explore some of the main approaches to the analysis of media texts including structuralism, psychoanalysis and discourse analysis. These approaches will be discussed in relation to films like James Bond, advertising campaigns like the ones by the United Colors of Benetton, and newspaper articles on current affairs. The aim of the module is to bring together theory and hands-on analysis and research in media products. | ||
| ANALYSING MEDIA DISCOURSES | PSI-3A43 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A41 Analysing Media Discourses. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| AUSTRALIA: POLITICS, CULTURE, SOCIETY | PSI-3A12 | 30 |
| This module examines the history, structures and key institutions of Australian government and their broader relationships with Australian society and culture. It has been argued Australia was manacled to its colonial past, and lacked innovation and proactivity. At the same time, the phrase, 'lucky country', has been used to project Australia as uniquely stable, politically, socially, and economically. Is this accurate? Some think so, attributing it to Australia's system of government: are they right? This module addresses such questions and, in its later stages, considers some of the challenges Australia faces, both internal and external, for example, regionalisation and globalisation. | ||
| AUSTRALIA: POLITICS, CULTURE, SOCIETY | PSI-3A28 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A12 AUSTRALIA: POLITICS, CULTURE, SOCIETY and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS | PSI-3A08 | 30 |
| Would an ideal society have no more crime? Who would be wealthy? Would politics be outlawed? How would we change relationships between the sexes if we could refashion society in a new, better image? Do all utopians secretly wish to impose their views on the rest of humankind? Do the flaws in human nature justify the pessimism of dystopian writers? The module compares selected utopian and dystopian texts produced during the last five centuries. Themes will include property, social control, gender, morality and politics. Another dimension of the module considers the purpose of utopian thinking and the historical role of utopian ideas in social theory and social reform. | ||
| BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS | PSI-3A24 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A08 BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| BRITISH INTELLIGENCE IN THE 20TH CENTURY - MYTH AND REALITY | HISH3F97C | 30 |
| The study of intelligence history has seen considerable growth over the last 20 years, as a result of new archival evidence and above all a growing realisation that intelligence has for long been the "missing dimension" in historical interpretation of 20th century diplomacy, defence policy and strategy and in the operational history of two world wars. A consideration of the impact of intelligence assessment, its acceptance (or rejection) and its proponents has well known areas of historical analysis, particularly in the period from the 1930s to the Cold War. The aim of this module is to examine the current historiography of this "missing dimension" and assess its impact in the interpretation of British strategic and defence policy and to some extent, in internal and imperial security as well as considering popular and fictional interpretations of the intelligence service. | ||
| BRITISH INTELLIGENCE IN THE 20TH CENTURY - MYTH AND REALITY (CW) | HISH3F96C | 30 |
| The study of intelligence history has seen considerable growth over the last 20 years, as a result of new archival evidence and above all a growing realisation that intelligence has for long been the "missing dimension" in historical interpretation of 20th century diplomacy, defence policy and strategy and in the operational history of two world wars. A consideration of the impact of intelligence assessment, its acceptance (or rejection) and its proponents has well known areas of historical analysis, particularly in the period from the 1930s to the Cold War. The aim of this module is to examine the current historiography of this "missing dimension" and assess its impact in the interpretation of British strategic and defence policy and to some extent, in internal and imperial security as well as considering popular and fictional interpretations of the intelligence service. | ||
| BROADCAST JOURNALISM | PSI-3A51 | 30 |
| Broadcast Journalism provides students with an overview of modern journalism practices and related production processes. The module will enable students to contextualise academic study and criticism of news gathering and presentation processes. Students will collaborate in producing short, broadcast-style news reports, which will be compiled into a magazine format programme (see, for example, BBC’s The One Show). First, students will be trained in the 'art' of journalism; the techniques and practices that are used to create reports. Second, students will be introduced to production skills including cameras, sound and editing. Students will be taught by highly experienced production and news journalists and use broadcast quality equipment. The practical teaching will be reinforced by instruction on the packaging and presentation of news and factual material for broadcasting purposes. | ||
| CAPITALISM AND ITS CRITICS | PSI-3A52 | 30 |
| The aim of this module is to enable students to develop an understanding of capitalism and its political and social impact. Students graduating from the module will be able to demonstrate: - critical understanding of the main theories, models and concepts applied in the analysis of capitalism - critical understanding of normative debates about capitalism - knowledge of the arguments made by advocates and critics of capitalism, with an awareness of their strengths and weaknesses | ||
| CAPITALISM AND ITS CRITICS | PSI-3A54 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A52 Capitalism and its Critics ,and is available only to Exchange, Visiting and Non HUM students. | ||
| CASTLES, CANNON AND CONCRETE: LANDSCAPES OF FORTIFICATION FROM THE MIDDLE AGES TO THE COLD WAR | HISH3K06 | 30 |
| The module examines the landscape of fortification from the origins of the castle to the Cold War, with the aim of assessing the landscape ‘footprint’ of defended sites. The module starts with the castle and an examination of the place of ‘fortified residence’ in medieval war. We will then go on to assess the artillery forts of the Tudors and the archaeology of the English Civil War. Thereafter we will examine the various schemes for national defence up to 1900 before looking at landscapes of ‘Total War’. The latter includes both World Wars and the archaeology of Britain’s nuclear deterrent. | ||
| CHAMBERLAIN, CHURCHILL AND APPEASEMENT, 1935-1940 (CW) | HISH3G13C | 30 |
| Britain's response to the aggression of the fascist powers in the inter-war period has been the subject of fierce debate for decades, and is still hotly disputed between historians. This module examines British foreign policy in the era of 'appeasement'. It will focus on the period between 1935 and 1940, analysing a range of primary source material in detail. It will explore the role of key policy-makers, their critics, and the domestic context in which policy was constructed. | ||
| DEATH, BODY AND DISEASE: THEMES IN MEDICAL & SOCIAL HISTORY | HISH3F91 | 30 |
| This module focuses upon the theory and practice of medicine in the context of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century social history. Topics include healing and science; concepts of 'orthodox' and 'alternative' medicine; interpretations of epidemic disease; the sufferer's agenda; minds, brains and bodies; and changing perceptions of death. We will consider contemporary texts and key contributions to the historiographical literature. It is expected that you will have some background in level 2 medical history course modules. | ||
| DISSERTATION IN HISTORY | HISH3P2Y | 30 |
| This module offers students the opportunity to submit a dissertation of 9,000 words on a topic approved by the School. | ||
| DISSERTATION MODULE | PSI-3A0Y | 30 |
| This dissertation module gives students the opportunity to undertake research on a project of their own choosing under the supervision of a member of staff. The goal is to produce an extended essay of between 8,000-10,000 words, which relates in-depth research on a specialist topic to wider issues in politics, sociology and international studies. A limited number of parliamentary internships and an advertising internship are also available as part of this module. Students are supported by introductory workshops, seminars and tutorials. | ||
| EDWARDIAN BRITAIN | HISH3E56 | 30 |
| This module will examine the 'crisis of Liberal England' which has dominated modern discussion of this period. Themes will include the rise of new liberalism, the tariff reform controversy, women's suffrage, Home Rule for Ireland, the land question, national efficiency and social reform. | ||
| EUROPEAN STUDIES (WITH BRUSSELS INTERNSHIP) | PSI-3A72 | 30 |
| This is an intensive module for ambitious and outstanding PSI students who demonstrate a strong commitment to wanting to work at the international level and who have the necessary language skills. It will provide unique opportunities to gain considerable insights into the working of the EU, to network and follow up job opportunities. Students interested in participating in the module will be asked to apply and selection will be based on merit. The module will involve 10 lectures and 10 seminars during the Spring Semester and a four week period in Brussels over the Easter 2011 UEA vacation break during which students will spend: • two days each week gaining work experience (unpaid) in the Brussels Office Partnership which represents and promotes the interests on the East of England; • one or two days a week on visits to organisations such as the UK Permanent Representation, European Commission, European Parliament, Committee of the Regions, NATO, and third sector bodies. These will include talks on specific issues such as EU trade policy, foreign and security policy, media, audiovisual, and environmental policies and how to obtain a job at the international level. A substantial contribution will be made towards the costs of accommodation in Brussels and for travel to and from Brussels, through an award which the School has received from the UEA Alumni Association. Students taking part will gain an advanced understanding of how the EU functions, lobbying and other organisations, including the role of regional offices, gain relevant work experience and establish a wide range of contacts. They will be able to articulate competing explanations for European integration and the relationship between Britain and the EU, and how the EU and its institutions interact, between themselves, with the member states and with other organisations. • Nationals of a member state of the European Economic Area • Fluency in English and some knowledge of a second language • Third Year PSI students only • Marks to date which indicate a student is heading for a 1st or good 2:1 Degree STUDENTS MUST SEE THE MODULE ORGANISER BEFORE ENROLLING ON THIS MODULE | ||
| IDEOLOGY, CULTURE AND REVOLUTION IN THE POLITICS OF THE MIDDLE EAST | PSI-3A53 | 30 |
| This module seeks to expand the knowledge and understanding of the contemporary politics of the Middle East acquired by students taking PSI-2A46. A main feature of this module is to allow students to delve into the complexities of political thought in the region. The aim of the module is to make students think critically about the ways in which political mobilisation functions in the modern Middle East. For this purpose the module will feature many examples of contemporary political ideologies that have constituted key political frameworks in the politics of the Middle East since the First World War. | ||
| IDEOLOGY, CULTURE AND REVOLUTION IN THE POLITICS OF THE MIDDLE EAST | PSI-3A55 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A53 Ideology, Culture and Revolution in the Politics of the Middle East. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| INTELLECTUALS AND US FOREIGN POLICY, 1880-2008 | PSI-3A48 | 30 |
| This module examines the ideas and influence of nine American foreign policy “intellectuals,” beginning with Alfred Mahan and concluding with Paul Wolfowitz. Why did each “intellectual” strike a particular chord at a particular time? Do individuals matter in the history of US foreign policy? How, and with what consequences, were these ideas translated into policy? This module will explore the origins of key US foreign policy concepts such as isolationism, internationalism, containment and “pre-emptive defence.” Aims of the Module • To introduce students to nine particular strains of US foreign policy ideology. • To encourage students to engage critically with the primary output of these “intellectuals” and to identify their strengths and weaknesses. • To stimulate students to consider whether these ideas have been manifested in policy, and to trace their impact. • To encourage students to develop their own foreign policy philosophy. | ||
| INTELLECTUALS AND US FOREIGN POLICY, 1880-2008 | PSI-3A50 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A48 Intellectuals and US Foreign Policy, 1880-2008. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| LANDSCAPE III FIELD COURSE | HISH3P4Y | 30 |
| The field course builds on the landscape archaeology units to provide forty hours of practical instruction in the field. The field course runs for one week in June, concentrating on the recording and analysis of buildings and historic landscapes. Assessment will take the form of a practical assignment in the field and an extended project. | ||
| MADNESS AND MEDICINE | HISH3F62C | 30 |
| This module considers the practice of medicine in Britain from the eighteenth century to the establishment of the NHS. Themes include the impact of science and professions, the organisation and control aspects of medical and hospital services and healthcare as seen by sufferers and patients. | ||
| MULTICULTURALISM | PSI-3A38 | 30 |
| This module looks at the political implications of the rise of multicultural societies in Europe since the end of World War II. Canadian experience will also be given consideration because of its importance to these debates both as a practical model as well as a source of influential theorists. The aim is to introduce students to a range of contemporary theoretical and practical perspectives on multiculturalism and facilitate critical assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of competing approaches in the light of political variants such as nationalism and alternative forms of liberalism. Theorists under examination would include; Parekh, Kymlicka, Tully, Taylor and Miller as well as major liberal alternative views; Barry, Rawls and Raz. Among the module themes the following will be addressed; group rights; institutional racism, Islamophobia, multicultural federalism, recognition vs toleration. The module will also look at divergent policies adopted within European states (eg: France and Germany) and give attention to the attempts to operationalize multiculturalism in the UK in particular via the Parekh Report. | ||
| MULTICULTURALISM | PSI-3A40 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A38 Multiculturalism, and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| NAPOLEONIC EUROPE | HISH3K01C | 30 |
| This module examines the impact of Napoleonic rule on Europe. Beginning with an examination of the foundations of the French Empire, the unit goes on to examine different aspects of Napoleonic rule: social and economic change; culture and ideology; warfare and the state; collaboration and resistance. It will look comparatively at the experience of France, Italy, Germany and Spain under Napoleon, before assessing the reasons for the downfall of the Napoleonic regime. Material used will include memoirs, literature and other contemporary documents. | ||
| OLIVER CROMWELL AND THE PURITAN WORLD (CW) | HISH3K05C | 30 |
| After forty years of relative obscurity, Oliver Cromwell emerged as a leader in the parliamentary opposition to the king during the English Revolution and became the most powerful man in Britain. This module will explore the life and times of Cromwell and provide a point of entry into political, religious and social change in early modern England from the long Reformation to the Restoration. It will draw from a host of primary sources to enter into Cromwell’s puritan mental world and seek to understand his personal and national aspirations. It will build on this to explore Cromwell’s conquest of Ireland and Scotland and his ambitious plans to undermine Spanish power in the Atlantic. Finally, the module will consider Cromwell’s controversial reception by contemporaries and his diverse representations in popular culture, film and history. | ||
| POLITICAL COMMUNICATION | PSI-3A10 | 30 |
| Political communication occurs on many different levels, and subsequently with different implications and effects. Political communication can be verbal or nonverbal by political actors or about political actors and systems. This module builds upon the Politics and Mass Media unit and explores the forms and impact of political communication. It will be organised around the themes of who communicates, whether that is the state, celebrities, media organisations, the message they communicate, and the effect this has on the receivers of the message. The module will address areas such as spin, globalisation, the role of the new media in order to explore the changing nature of political communication. | ||
| POLITICAL COMMUNICATION | PSI-3A26 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A10 POLITICAL COMMUNICATION and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting Students. | ||
| POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE ENVIRONMENT | PSI-3A44 | 30 |
| In an attempt to better understand the environmental dilemmas that confront us in the contemporary world, this module tries to move beyond the limitations of mainstream political and economic analyses. In coming to terms with the threats of environmental degradation and climate change, it tries to reawaken a broader type of ethical, natural and social theorisation that defined an earlier political economy. This is not a module on environmental or resource economics, nor are students expected to have an economics background. Rather, this module tries to understand social production as much more than a series of market relations. It tries to develop a broader socio-cultural understanding of production that "de-naturalises" the way we view and exploit the natural world. | ||
| POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE ENVIRONMENT | PSI-3A46 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A44 POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE ENVIRONMENT and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| POLITICS AND GOVERNANCE WITH INTERNSHIP (WORK BASED EXPERIENCE/EMPLOYABILITY TRAINING PROGRAMME) | PSI-3A80 | 30 |
| The module aims to provide a sound understanding of the ‘nuts and bolts’ of the different levels of government - local, regional, and national, and through the third sector – and how each contributes to democratic pluralism. It will relate public policy and administration taught in other modules to the organisation and structures of governance and also focus on career and job opportunities, and developing specific skills to enhance employability. Field trips and study visits will complement class-based teaching and ‘real world’ experience will be available through a short internship, other work based learning or an employability training programme to enable students to build a network of contacts, increase confidence, experience and the skills necessary to secure graduate employment. | ||
| POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE | PSI-3A23 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A37 POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE | PSI-3A37 | 30 |
| The module explores three issues: the role of popular culture in political thought and action, the political organisation of, and response to, popular culture, and the political meanings and interpretations placed upon popular culture. | ||
| POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA | PSI-3A29 | 30 |
| This module will introduce important themes in the American relationship with East Asia, at a time when the Pacific region has assumed great importance. There will be a particular focus on the important historical periods in the American relationship with China and Japan. An understanding of elements of the trajectory of these relationships will be provided by taking a selection of historical subjects for analysis. While this will address the knowledge of history, and of long-term themes, the latter part of the module will consider contemporary political issues. This will require an understanding of the interaction of the United States with Asia, and China and Japan in particular. | ||
| POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA | PSI-3A31 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A29 POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non HUM Students. | ||
| POWERFUL WORDS: EDUCATION, CULTURE AND POLITICS IN THE MIDDLE AGES | HISH3K14 | 30 |
| This module will cover two centuries (1050-1250) during which a cultural revolution took place: the written word, from being remote and confined to a small elite, became conspicuous and increasingly necessary to medieval people - even to those who could not read for themselves. The reasons for this radical change will be explored, as will the new knowledge, the new institutions and the new social groups that the growing role of writing created. The contents of books, as well as their availibility, changed deeply. New Schools (some eventually turning into the first universities) developed, and higher learning moved from monastic to urban settings, training much larger numbers of men. These men were more likely to turn to the secular world for employment after they left the schools, and kings and princes needed the new learned elite to be their courtiers and bureaucrats. The new importance of written words transformed the face of Europe in the realms of religion, culture and politics. | ||
| PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND POLITICS: INFLUENCING THE POLITICAL PROCESS | PSI-3A78 | 30 |
| This module enables students to understand the theory and practice of public affairs, interest intermediation, and the strategies used by interest and advocacy groups to influence the political process. As well as covering the main debates in the academic literature, it draws directly on the experience of practitioners and offers unique insights into this under-studied area of politics. Students graduating from this module will: • be able to demonstrate understanding of the theories, models and concepts of public affairs • be able to demonstrate understanding of the theories, models and concepts applied in the study of interest intermediation and lobbying • be able to demonstrate knowledge of public affairs and lobbying in a variety of political settings • have developed important key skills, including making oral presentations, that will be of use in employment. Indicative outline 1. Introduction. Public affairs: influencing the political process 2. Making policy: processes and decision points 3. Lobbyists, interest and advocacy groups 4. The art of public relations 5. Communications and marketing 6. Public affairs and the media 7. Influencing the political process I: Whitehall 8. Influencing the political process II: Westminster 9. Influencing the political process III: Brussels 10. Influencing the political process IV: Washington 11. Influencing the political process V: local government | ||
| RHETORIC: DEMOCRACY AND THE POLITICS OF PERSUASION | PSI-3A59 | 30 |
| Political activity involves a lot of talking, discussing and debating, speechifying, speaking and listening. In Parliaments, from public platforms and through many forms of media people try to persuade others to see things their way, to take their side and to adopt their proposals. Naturally, therefore, the form, function and implications of different forms of public argument are an important concern of political theorists and scientists. This course will explore some contemporary theorists who, in different ways, help us think through the politics of public speech and persuasion (Arendt, Dryzek, Laclau, Ranciere and others). It will also introduce you to the rhetorical tradition. Rhetoric, according to Aristotle, is “the ability to identify in any given case the available means of persuasion". In studying political rhetoric we learn about the different ways in which political arguments may be made and about how we might try to persuade particular people, about particular things at particular times. | ||
| RUSSIA IN REVOLUTION 1905-1921 | HISH3F18 | 30 |
| This module will look at the upheavals in Russia between 1905 and the introduction of a limited Parliament, and continue by examining the First World War and the downfall of the Romanov monarchy. We will then study the year 1917 in some detail and discuss the causes of the Bolshevik seizure of power. The Civil War and the reasons of the Communist victory will be analysed. The module will place the Russian Revolutions in their historical, political and geographical context and will consider the impact that these events had in the history of the twentieth century. | ||
| THE CLASH OF FUNDAMENTALISMS | PSI-3A57 | 30 |
| This module examines the resurgence of religion as an issue in international relations. IR literature has tended to marginalise religion but the events of 9/11 and the growth of fundamentalism is refocusing attention on this important area. Using case studies this module critically analyses religion and international relations. | ||
| THE CRUSADES | HISH3A61C | 30 |
| This module will consider the history of the Crusades and the Crusader States from 1095 to 1291, covering a broad range of themes, religious , military and social, and taking into consideration the relations between Christians and Moslems in the Holy Land. Particular attention will be paid to primary sources, which are abundant and available in English translation. | ||
| THE NORMAN CONQUEST | HISH3K10 | 30 |
| This module will examine the Old English and Norman states before 1066, the Conquest and the colonisation of the Kingdom of England. Particular attention will be given to the processes by which England was brought under Norman rule, both in the ecclesiastical and secular spheres. The module will be taught through original sources in translation. | ||
| TUDOR REBELLIONS | HISH3K08 | 30 |
| This module looks at the nature of rebellions, riot and popular politics in Tudor England. The early part of the module proceeds in a chronological format; and after that, we analyse rebellion in more thematic terms, individual sessions look at: late medieval rebellion; early Tudor rebellion; The Pilgrimage of Grace of 1536; the 1549 rebellions Kett’s rebellion, popular rebellion in the 1580s and 1590os; gender and ritual; seditious speech; popular culture; Shakespeare, drama and popular protest; food and enclosure rioting. A lot of use is made of extracts of primary material . After we have studied Kett’s Rebellion of 1549, there will be a fieldtrip to examine key sites in Norwich associated with those events. This may possibly end in one of the oldest pubs in Britain; the Adam and Eve. | ||
| TWENTIETH CENTURY SPORT HISTORY | HISH3F76 | 30 |
| This module explores key themes and topics in the history of twentieth century sport, from the founding of the modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896 to the impact which the collapse of socialism had upon sport at the end of the century. Sport’s interaction with empire, nationalism, fascism , socialism and capitalism will be considered, demonstrating that the political history and international relations of the century are deeply entwined with sport. A range of examples are examined, from Franco’s Spain to the superpower competition of the Cold War. As an aspect of social history, issues of gender, race and disability are inseparable from this topic, as are the harnessing and exploitation of sport as a means of war or reconciliation at various periods throughout the century. | ||
| TYRANNY AND REVOLUTION: THE AGE OF RICHARD II | HISH3K17 | 30 |
| This module explores the ‘Age of Richard II’ (1377-99) as revealed in an exceptionally-rich corpus of primary sources. Richard’s was a tumultuous reign. To many contemporaries it seemed as if the world was turning upside down as those who traditionally wielded power in English society – the king, the church and the aristocracy – faced unprecedented challenges to their authority. Through weekly seminar discussions, members of the class will learn to assess the significance of the reign based on a close reading of selected texts. Two sources in particular will provide the documentary spine of the course: the ‘Parliament Rolls of medieval England’ (recently re-edited in translation and freely available online) and the great chronicle of Thomas Walsingham, a monk of St Albans and perhaps England’s foremost chronicler of the period. We will also explore a range of other records and narratives as well as the verse of some of England’s most famous medieval poets, many of whom (notably Geoffrey Chaucer) were closely connected to the court of Richard II. The module falls into two parts. Part 1 investigates the political developments from the dying days of Edward III through the Peasant’s revolt (1381) to Richard II’s final years of ‘tyranny’ (1397-9). Part two adopts a thematic approach. Topics here include parliament, political society, heresy, the Hundred Years War, chivalry and courtliness. We conclude by examining the revolution of 1399, which resulted in Richard’s deposition and death. | ||
| VICTORIAN UNDERWORLDS | HISH3H12 | 30 |
| This module introduces students to the darker side of life in Victorian Britain. Though this was undoubtedly a period of economic prosperity, not everyone shared in the gains. In this module we shall look at those who, for reasons of poverty or ‘deviance’ were confined to the margins. Topics will include the poor, the criminal and insane, prostitution, drink, child-workers, the workhouse, the London Irish, homosexuality and the Oscar Wilde case. By looking at the margins and the misfits, we will seek to gain a deeper understanding if British society in the nineteenth century. | ||
| WE THE PEOPLE? PUBLICS, CROWDS AND DEMOCRACY | PSI-3A84 | 30 |
| This module examines the position of mass publics and collectives in democratic society, taking into consideration models of collective behaviour and some of the available empirical evidence. The module is all about the relationship between the individual and the group: how does that relationship work in different contexts, and what are the consequences for the democratic character of governance and the rationality or otherwise of collective decisions? Liberal theory has an ambiguous attitude to the ‘public’, portraying it as a source of legitimacy but also as a threatening and unreasoning force. We explore these issues in a variety of contexts: mass political movements, public opinion surveys, un-coordinated mass action such as moral panics and health scares, arts prize juries and political executives. We also look at whether mass publics can be manipulated and steered by the rhetoric of ‘leaders’ and by biases in the information environment. | ||
| WE THE PEOPLE? PUBLICS, CROWDS AND DEMOCRACY | PSI-3A86 | 20 |
| IN TAKING THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT TAKE PSI-3A84. This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A84 We the People? Publics, Crowds and Democracy. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON-HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT | PSI-3A01 | 30 |
| This Level 3 module examines in depth the works of selected thinkers who are seminal to the Western tradition of political thought, including Plato, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau and Marx. Their work will also be compared thematically, with a focus on ideas such as political obligation, authority, the state and freedom. The module will be based on the study and interpretation of key texts and will enable students to develop skills of textual analysis and critique. | ||
| WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT | PSI-3A17 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A01 WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-Hum Students. | ||
| WORKING IN THE HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT | HISH3H1Y | 30 |
| This module will provide students with the opportunity to undertake a work placement with an employer working in the historic environment sector. Each placement will last for six to eight weeks and will focus on a specific project relating to landscape history or archaeology. Placements must be undertaken between June and December, and will be followed up by a series of practical seminars in the spring semester. Students may arrange their own work placements but this must be approved in advance by the module organisers. Project based placements will be agreed in advance with the host organisations. Students will then have to ‘apply’ for the placement of their choice, and will attend an informal interview with the relevant organisation before their choice of placement is confirmed. A list of provisional placements and projects will be available in Spring 2011. Please note that enrolment on this module will only be confirmed after a short interview with the module organisers. | ||
| YOUTH IN MODERN EUROPE | HISH3J04C | 30 |
| The importance of youth as a driving force for social change has been recognised by many historians. Young people were often at the forefront wherever revolutions took place, wars were fought and tensions in society erupted. However, the historical study of youth is still a relatively young discipline. The module uses ‘youth’ as a prism to study key themes in 20th century European history, such as the experience of war, life under dictatorship and the longue durée of social change. We shall examine the diverse experience of youth in Western and Eastern Europe during war and peace times, including the Communist and Nazi state-sponsored youth systems, and also the way in which generational experience and conflicts became underlying forces for social and political change. The module employs a strong comparative approach and countries studied include France, Britain, the Soviet Union, West and East Germany, Poland, Hungary and Czechoslovakia. The seminars will be accompanied by several film screenings. | ||
Option A Study (60 credits)
Students will select 60 credits from the following modules:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BRITAIN AT WAR AND OTHER MODERN MYTHS | HIST3L4Y | 60 |
| This module invites students to critically analyse the prevailing historical narratives of twentieth-century Britain. It offers an understanding of the political uses of certain histories, shifts in meaning over time and preoccupations with the past in British politics and cultures. The module will set the heritage industry and the "memory boom" in the context of social, political, economic and cultural change. Students will have the opportunity to examine why particular events in British history - such as the Second World War - have become so central to British national identity. Using political speeches, film and television, private memoirs and state memorials, this module will uncover the power of historical consciousness and collective memory throughout twentieth century British history. | ||
| COLD WAR IN EUROPE | HIST3J4Y | 60 |
| This module will combine analysis of grand strategies and Cold War flashpoints with consideration of counter-culture and civilian resistance in Soviet-controlled Europe, and the circumstances which led to the peaceful end of the Cold War in 1989. | ||
| COMMUNISM AND NATIONALISM IN YUGOSLAVIA | HIST3H8Y | 60 |
| This module will look at the creation of the Communist state of Yugoslavia after the Second World War. We shall examine the course of the war and the bitter fighting between fascists, nationalists and communists which resulted in the eventual victory of the partisans led by Tito. After 1945, he and his followers built a state which survived until 1991. With the demise of Communism, Yugoslavia fragmented into new nations. In some cases this transition was largely peaceful, but the wars for independence in Croatia, Bosnia and Kosovo gave rise to the bloodiest fighting in Europe for decades. We shall look at the role of individuals and ideas, including the career of key figures such as Milosevic and end by assessing at the international community's response to the crimes committed in the former Yugoslavia at the Hague Tribunal. | ||
| DEATH, THE BODY AND DISEASE: FROM GALEN TO THE NHS | HIST3E5Y | 60 |
| Documents and a wide range of visual material from contemporary sources are used to examine the theory and practice of medieval and early modern medicine, focusing upon English and European society. Topics include changing perceptions of death, disease and the body, medicine and religion, the impact of medical ideas upon literary and political thought, public health, medical and surgical training, and women as healers and patients. This module examines a wide range of iconographic and archaeological sources, as well as documents in translation. | ||
| HENRY VIII: THE MAKING OF A TYRANT? | HIST3L2Y | 60 |
| The reign of Henry VIII was a major turning point in British history, and ‘bluff King Hal’ continues to horrify and fascinate us in equal measure. This special subject uses the preoccupations, ambitions, and character of Henry VIII as a route into the political, religious and cultural changes of this tumultuous period. Starting with the acclaimed young king, his Spanish bride, Katherine of Aragon, and his consummate minister, Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, the course works chronologically and thematically through to the declining years of Henry VIII’s reign, when a paranoid, obese and cruel monarch presided over an irrevocably changed religious and political landscape. It examines in detail the divorce crisis, the establishment of the Church of England, the Henrician Reformation, the politics and factionalism of the Court, war and foreign policy, magnificence, and opposition to the king, and engages with the intense historiographical debates on all these issues. The module considers some of the most colourful personalities in British history - Wolsey, More, Boleyn, Cromwell, and Cranmer - as well as structures, and the falls of Anne Boleyn and Thomas Cromwell are given particular attention. Finally, the module draws on material culture, art history, literature, film, and even dress, as well as relying on the more usual documentary sources, such as the State Papers. Above all, we will try to answer: did Henry VIII really become a tyrant? | ||
| ISOLATION TO WORLD WAR: BRITAIN AND THE ORIGINS OF WWI | HIST3G3Y | 60 |
| A double module special subject that examines the development of British foreign policy between 1880 and 1914. In the first semester we will undertake a detailed examination of Salisbury's foreign policy and the debate surrounding Britain's international 'isolation' up to the conclusion of the French entente. The second semester will see us examining the cause of British foreign policy under Sir Edward Grey until the outbreak of war in August 1914. It would be helpful (but not essential) to have done NAPOLEON TO STALIN and/or RISE AND FALL OF BRITISH POWER. | ||
| LANDSCAPE SPECIAL SUBJECT | HIST3A5Y | 60 |
| A special subject dealing with various types of landscapes found in England, and their development over time. In the first semester, Dr Liddiard will examine castles, monasteries and urban settlements in England and discuss the evidence for medieval designed landscapes. Dr Williamson considers the various kinds of rural landscape, paying particular attention to: designed landscapes (parks and gardens), wood-pasture countryside, marshes and fens, and landscapes of reclamation and enclosure. | ||
| STALIN AND STALINISM: THE USSR 1924-1953 | HIST3H6Y | 60 |
| This special subject will examine the Stalin era in the context of other 20th-century dictatorships. There will be a particular focus on: Stalin's rise to power; Stalin's revolution; terror and its impact on Soviet society; war and dictatorship; decline and fall - Stalin and destalinization. | ||
| THE DEVIL’S BROOD: THE ANGEVIN KINGS OF ENGLAND (1154-1225) | HIST3C1Y | 60 |
| This Special Subject focuses on the lives and actions of three of the most charismatic kings of the English. It begins by an examination of the creator of the Angevin dynasty, Henry fitz Empress, who, by the time he was twenty-one, dominated more than half of France as well as being king of the English. On the continent, Henry was a successful military commander; in England, he was the creator of the English common law and a centralising administration. And it was of him that St Bernard is supposed to have declared ‘he came from the Devil and he will go to the Devil’. His son and successor, Richard the Lionheart, was one of the greatest knights of his age as well as being a crusader and hugely successful military commander who seemingly placed the Angevin Empire on a solid footing. After these two great makers of empire, the third ruler of the dynasty almost brought the whole edifice crashing down. King John lost the continental lands, and by the time of his death his lands were being ravaged by a foreign prince, his barons were in revolt having gathered themselves behind a document we know as Magna Carta, and his dynasty on the verge of extinction. This Special Subject has at its core the story of the creation and near destruction of this dynasty; and seeks further to examine the politics, culture, and society of the lands over which the Angevin dynasty held sway. This was an age of profound intellectual, religious, and political change, and this Special Subject will be set within this wider context. Students will be expected to become conversant with the primary sources in translation and to be aware of current historiographical debates. Teaching will be through student-centred seminars. Students will be expected to do weekly gobbets both as a way of becoming familiar with the sources and as preparation for the examination. | ||
| THE ENGLISH IN AMERICA 1607-1692 | HIST3J2Y | 60 |
| This module explores the colonization of America by seventeenth-century English people. The memory of the Mayflower Pilgrims has obscured the fact that the first three generations remained English, unaware of the political and cultural distinctiveness to come. We will therefore be concerned with 'the repatriation of early American history'. We shall examine settlers' lives from the foundation of Jamestown in 1607, through the creation of Massachusetts in the 1630s, to the wars and rebellions of 1670-90. Not confined to New England, this module looks at a range of colonial experiences from Maine to the Caribbean, especially the mentalities of people moving between old and new worlds. | ||
| THE THIRD REICH | HIST3D6Y | 60 |
| This special subject makes extensive use of primary sources to examine: the ideology, structure and social base of the Nazi movement, the type of dictatorship it constructed during and after the seizure of power, the impact of the regime's policies on German society and on the Germans' relationship to Hitler, and the social, economic and political changes wrought by Germany's war of racial conquest, and the experience of the German 'home front' during the war. | ||
Option B Study (30 credits)
Students will select 30 credits from the following modules:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ANALYSING MEDIA DISCOURSES | PSI-3A41 | 30 |
| The module will explore some of the main approaches to the analysis of media texts including structuralism, psychoanalysis and discourse analysis. These approaches will be discussed in relation to films like James Bond, advertising campaigns like the ones by the United Colors of Benetton, and newspaper articles on current affairs. The aim of the module is to bring together theory and hands-on analysis and research in media products. | ||
| ANALYSING MEDIA DISCOURSES | PSI-3A43 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A41 Analysing Media Discourses. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| AUSTRALIA: POLITICS, CULTURE, SOCIETY | PSI-3A12 | 30 |
| This module examines the history, structures and key institutions of Australian government and their broader relationships with Australian society and culture. It has been argued Australia was manacled to its colonial past, and lacked innovation and proactivity. At the same time, the phrase, 'lucky country', has been used to project Australia as uniquely stable, politically, socially, and economically. Is this accurate? Some think so, attributing it to Australia's system of government: are they right? This module addresses such questions and, in its later stages, considers some of the challenges Australia faces, both internal and external, for example, regionalisation and globalisation. | ||
| AUSTRALIA: POLITICS, CULTURE, SOCIETY | PSI-3A28 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A12 AUSTRALIA: POLITICS, CULTURE, SOCIETY and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS | PSI-3A08 | 30 |
| Would an ideal society have no more crime? Who would be wealthy? Would politics be outlawed? How would we change relationships between the sexes if we could refashion society in a new, better image? Do all utopians secretly wish to impose their views on the rest of humankind? Do the flaws in human nature justify the pessimism of dystopian writers? The module compares selected utopian and dystopian texts produced during the last five centuries. Themes will include property, social control, gender, morality and politics. Another dimension of the module considers the purpose of utopian thinking and the historical role of utopian ideas in social theory and social reform. | ||
| BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS | PSI-3A24 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A08 BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| BROADCAST JOURNALISM | PSI-3A51 | 30 |
| Broadcast Journalism provides students with an overview of modern journalism practices and related production processes. The module will enable students to contextualise academic study and criticism of news gathering and presentation processes. Students will collaborate in producing short, broadcast-style news reports, which will be compiled into a magazine format programme (see, for example, BBC’s The One Show). First, students will be trained in the 'art' of journalism; the techniques and practices that are used to create reports. Second, students will be introduced to production skills including cameras, sound and editing. Students will be taught by highly experienced production and news journalists and use broadcast quality equipment. The practical teaching will be reinforced by instruction on the packaging and presentation of news and factual material for broadcasting purposes. | ||
| CAPITALISM AND ITS CRITICS | PSI-3A52 | 30 |
| The aim of this module is to enable students to develop an understanding of capitalism and its political and social impact. Students graduating from the module will be able to demonstrate: - critical understanding of the main theories, models and concepts applied in the analysis of capitalism - critical understanding of normative debates about capitalism - knowledge of the arguments made by advocates and critics of capitalism, with an awareness of their strengths and weaknesses | ||
| CAPITALISM AND ITS CRITICS | PSI-3A54 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A52 Capitalism and its Critics ,and is available only to Exchange, Visiting and Non HUM students. | ||
| DISSERTATION MODULE | PSI-3A0Y | 30 |
| This dissertation module gives students the opportunity to undertake research on a project of their own choosing under the supervision of a member of staff. The goal is to produce an extended essay of between 8,000-10,000 words, which relates in-depth research on a specialist topic to wider issues in politics, sociology and international studies. A limited number of parliamentary internships and an advertising internship are also available as part of this module. Students are supported by introductory workshops, seminars and tutorials. | ||
| EUROPEAN STUDIES (WITH BRUSSELS INTERNSHIP) | PSI-3A72 | 30 |
| This is an intensive module for ambitious and outstanding PSI students who demonstrate a strong commitment to wanting to work at the international level and who have the necessary language skills. It will provide unique opportunities to gain considerable insights into the working of the EU, to network and follow up job opportunities. Students interested in participating in the module will be asked to apply and selection will be based on merit. The module will involve 10 lectures and 10 seminars during the Spring Semester and a four week period in Brussels over the Easter 2011 UEA vacation break during which students will spend: • two days each week gaining work experience (unpaid) in the Brussels Office Partnership which represents and promotes the interests on the East of England; • one or two days a week on visits to organisations such as the UK Permanent Representation, European Commission, European Parliament, Committee of the Regions, NATO, and third sector bodies. These will include talks on specific issues such as EU trade policy, foreign and security policy, media, audiovisual, and environmental policies and how to obtain a job at the international level. A substantial contribution will be made towards the costs of accommodation in Brussels and for travel to and from Brussels, through an award which the School has received from the UEA Alumni Association. Students taking part will gain an advanced understanding of how the EU functions, lobbying and other organisations, including the role of regional offices, gain relevant work experience and establish a wide range of contacts. They will be able to articulate competing explanations for European integration and the relationship between Britain and the EU, and how the EU and its institutions interact, between themselves, with the member states and with other organisations. • Nationals of a member state of the European Economic Area • Fluency in English and some knowledge of a second language • Third Year PSI students only • Marks to date which indicate a student is heading for a 1st or good 2:1 Degree STUDENTS MUST SEE THE MODULE ORGANISER BEFORE ENROLLING ON THIS MODULE | ||
| IDEOLOGY, CULTURE AND REVOLUTION IN THE POLITICS OF THE MIDDLE EAST | PSI-3A53 | 30 |
| This module seeks to expand the knowledge and understanding of the contemporary politics of the Middle East acquired by students taking PSI-2A46. A main feature of this module is to allow students to delve into the complexities of political thought in the region. The aim of the module is to make students think critically about the ways in which political mobilisation functions in the modern Middle East. For this purpose the module will feature many examples of contemporary political ideologies that have constituted key political frameworks in the politics of the Middle East since the First World War. | ||
| IDEOLOGY, CULTURE AND REVOLUTION IN THE POLITICS OF THE MIDDLE EAST | PSI-3A55 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A53 Ideology, Culture and Revolution in the Politics of the Middle East. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| INTELLECTUALS AND US FOREIGN POLICY, 1880-2008 | PSI-3A48 | 30 |
| This module examines the ideas and influence of nine American foreign policy “intellectuals,” beginning with Alfred Mahan and concluding with Paul Wolfowitz. Why did each “intellectual” strike a particular chord at a particular time? Do individuals matter in the history of US foreign policy? How, and with what consequences, were these ideas translated into policy? This module will explore the origins of key US foreign policy concepts such as isolationism, internationalism, containment and “pre-emptive defence.” Aims of the Module • To introduce students to nine particular strains of US foreign policy ideology. • To encourage students to engage critically with the primary output of these “intellectuals” and to identify their strengths and weaknesses. • To stimulate students to consider whether these ideas have been manifested in policy, and to trace their impact. • To encourage students to develop their own foreign policy philosophy. | ||
| INTELLECTUALS AND US FOREIGN POLICY, 1880-2008 | PSI-3A50 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A48 Intellectuals and US Foreign Policy, 1880-2008. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| MULTICULTURALISM | PSI-3A38 | 30 |
| This module looks at the political implications of the rise of multicultural societies in Europe since the end of World War II. Canadian experience will also be given consideration because of its importance to these debates both as a practical model as well as a source of influential theorists. The aim is to introduce students to a range of contemporary theoretical and practical perspectives on multiculturalism and facilitate critical assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of competing approaches in the light of political variants such as nationalism and alternative forms of liberalism. Theorists under examination would include; Parekh, Kymlicka, Tully, Taylor and Miller as well as major liberal alternative views; Barry, Rawls and Raz. Among the module themes the following will be addressed; group rights; institutional racism, Islamophobia, multicultural federalism, recognition vs toleration. The module will also look at divergent policies adopted within European states (eg: France and Germany) and give attention to the attempts to operationalize multiculturalism in the UK in particular via the Parekh Report. | ||
| MULTICULTURALISM | PSI-3A40 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A38 Multiculturalism, and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| POLITICAL COMMUNICATION | PSI-3A10 | 30 |
| Political communication occurs on many different levels, and subsequently with different implications and effects. Political communication can be verbal or nonverbal by political actors or about political actors and systems. This module builds upon the Politics and Mass Media unit and explores the forms and impact of political communication. It will be organised around the themes of who communicates, whether that is the state, celebrities, media organisations, the message they communicate, and the effect this has on the receivers of the message. The module will address areas such as spin, globalisation, the role of the new media in order to explore the changing nature of political communication. | ||
| POLITICAL COMMUNICATION | PSI-3A26 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A10 POLITICAL COMMUNICATION and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting Students. | ||
| POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE ENVIRONMENT | PSI-3A44 | 30 |
| In an attempt to better understand the environmental dilemmas that confront us in the contemporary world, this module tries to move beyond the limitations of mainstream political and economic analyses. In coming to terms with the threats of environmental degradation and climate change, it tries to reawaken a broader type of ethical, natural and social theorisation that defined an earlier political economy. This is not a module on environmental or resource economics, nor are students expected to have an economics background. Rather, this module tries to understand social production as much more than a series of market relations. It tries to develop a broader socio-cultural understanding of production that "de-naturalises" the way we view and exploit the natural world. | ||
| POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE ENVIRONMENT | PSI-3A46 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A44 POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE ENVIRONMENT and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| POLITICS AND GOVERNANCE WITH INTERNSHIP (WORK BASED EXPERIENCE/EMPLOYABILITY TRAINING PROGRAMME) | PSI-3A80 | 30 |
| The module aims to provide a sound understanding of the ‘nuts and bolts’ of the different levels of government - local, regional, and national, and through the third sector – and how each contributes to democratic pluralism. It will relate public policy and administration taught in other modules to the organisation and structures of governance and also focus on career and job opportunities, and developing specific skills to enhance employability. Field trips and study visits will complement class-based teaching and ‘real world’ experience will be available through a short internship, other work based learning or an employability training programme to enable students to build a network of contacts, increase confidence, experience and the skills necessary to secure graduate employment. | ||
| POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE | PSI-3A23 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A37 POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE | PSI-3A37 | 30 |
| The module explores three issues: the role of popular culture in political thought and action, the political organisation of, and response to, popular culture, and the political meanings and interpretations placed upon popular culture. | ||
| POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA | PSI-3A29 | 30 |
| This module will introduce important themes in the American relationship with East Asia, at a time when the Pacific region has assumed great importance. There will be a particular focus on the important historical periods in the American relationship with China and Japan. An understanding of elements of the trajectory of these relationships will be provided by taking a selection of historical subjects for analysis. While this will address the knowledge of history, and of long-term themes, the latter part of the module will consider contemporary political issues. This will require an understanding of the interaction of the United States with Asia, and China and Japan in particular. | ||
| POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA | PSI-3A31 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A29 POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non HUM Students. | ||
| PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND POLITICS: INFLUENCING THE POLITICAL PROCESS | PSI-3A78 | 30 |
| This module enables students to understand the theory and practice of public affairs, interest intermediation, and the strategies used by interest and advocacy groups to influence the political process. As well as covering the main debates in the academic literature, it draws directly on the experience of practitioners and offers unique insights into this under-studied area of politics. Students graduating from this module will: • be able to demonstrate understanding of the theories, models and concepts of public affairs • be able to demonstrate understanding of the theories, models and concepts applied in the study of interest intermediation and lobbying • be able to demonstrate knowledge of public affairs and lobbying in a variety of political settings • have developed important key skills, including making oral presentations, that will be of use in employment. Indicative outline 1. Introduction. Public affairs: influencing the political process 2. Making policy: processes and decision points 3. Lobbyists, interest and advocacy groups 4. The art of public relations 5. Communications and marketing 6. Public affairs and the media 7. Influencing the political process I: Whitehall 8. Influencing the political process II: Westminster 9. Influencing the political process III: Brussels 10. Influencing the political process IV: Washington 11. Influencing the political process V: local government | ||
| RHETORIC: DEMOCRACY AND THE POLITICS OF PERSUASION | PSI-3A59 | 30 |
| Political activity involves a lot of talking, discussing and debating, speechifying, speaking and listening. In Parliaments, from public platforms and through many forms of media people try to persuade others to see things their way, to take their side and to adopt their proposals. Naturally, therefore, the form, function and implications of different forms of public argument are an important concern of political theorists and scientists. This course will explore some contemporary theorists who, in different ways, help us think through the politics of public speech and persuasion (Arendt, Dryzek, Laclau, Ranciere and others). It will also introduce you to the rhetorical tradition. Rhetoric, according to Aristotle, is “the ability to identify in any given case the available means of persuasion". In studying political rhetoric we learn about the different ways in which political arguments may be made and about how we might try to persuade particular people, about particular things at particular times. | ||
| THE CLASH OF FUNDAMENTALISMS | PSI-3A57 | 30 |
| This module examines the resurgence of religion as an issue in international relations. IR literature has tended to marginalise religion but the events of 9/11 and the growth of fundamentalism is refocusing attention on this important area. Using case studies this module critically analyses religion and international relations. | ||
| WE THE PEOPLE? PUBLICS, CROWDS AND DEMOCRACY | PSI-3A84 | 30 |
| This module examines the position of mass publics and collectives in democratic society, taking into consideration models of collective behaviour and some of the available empirical evidence. The module is all about the relationship between the individual and the group: how does that relationship work in different contexts, and what are the consequences for the democratic character of governance and the rationality or otherwise of collective decisions? Liberal theory has an ambiguous attitude to the ‘public’, portraying it as a source of legitimacy but also as a threatening and unreasoning force. We explore these issues in a variety of contexts: mass political movements, public opinion surveys, un-coordinated mass action such as moral panics and health scares, arts prize juries and political executives. We also look at whether mass publics can be manipulated and steered by the rhetoric of ‘leaders’ and by biases in the information environment. | ||
| WE THE PEOPLE? PUBLICS, CROWDS AND DEMOCRACY | PSI-3A86 | 20 |
| IN TAKING THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT TAKE PSI-3A84. This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A84 We the People? Publics, Crowds and Democracy. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON-HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT | PSI-3A01 | 30 |
| This Level 3 module examines in depth the works of selected thinkers who are seminal to the Western tradition of political thought, including Plato, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau and Marx. Their work will also be compared thematically, with a focus on ideas such as political obligation, authority, the state and freedom. The module will be based on the study and interpretation of key texts and will enable students to develop skills of textual analysis and critique. | ||
| WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT | PSI-3A17 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A01 WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-Hum Students. | ||
Option C Study (30 credits)
Students will select 30 credits from the following modules:
| Name | Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 'REDCOATS': BRITISH MILITARY POWER IN THE AGE OF THE FIRST GLOBAL WARS, 1754-1783 | HISH3F87C | 30 |
| This module concerns the experience of the British army in the period of the Seven Years War and American War of Independence. It will examine the organisation and conduct of war in both Europe and America from a British perspective and discuss how the British army coped with the demands of conducting operations in the era of the first truly 'global' wars. | ||
| A WORLD AT WAR | HISH3F01 | 30 |
| This module will consider the history of the Second World War from 1939 to 1945, looking at the decisive battles that settled its outcome. It interprets ‘battle’ in the widest sense and it will look at ‘classic’ land, sea and air encounters – from the fall of France to midway, Stalingrad and D Day – and also at the other critical battles such as the battle of production, the Home Front and the technological battle, from Enigma to the atomic bomb | ||
| ANALYSING MEDIA DISCOURSES | PSI-3A41 | 30 |
| The module will explore some of the main approaches to the analysis of media texts including structuralism, psychoanalysis and discourse analysis. These approaches will be discussed in relation to films like James Bond, advertising campaigns like the ones by the United Colors of Benetton, and newspaper articles on current affairs. The aim of the module is to bring together theory and hands-on analysis and research in media products. | ||
| ANALYSING MEDIA DISCOURSES | PSI-3A43 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A41 Analysing Media Discourses. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| AUSTRALIA: POLITICS, CULTURE, SOCIETY | PSI-3A12 | 30 |
| This module examines the history, structures and key institutions of Australian government and their broader relationships with Australian society and culture. It has been argued Australia was manacled to its colonial past, and lacked innovation and proactivity. At the same time, the phrase, 'lucky country', has been used to project Australia as uniquely stable, politically, socially, and economically. Is this accurate? Some think so, attributing it to Australia's system of government: are they right? This module addresses such questions and, in its later stages, considers some of the challenges Australia faces, both internal and external, for example, regionalisation and globalisation. | ||
| AUSTRALIA: POLITICS, CULTURE, SOCIETY | PSI-3A28 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A12 AUSTRALIA: POLITICS, CULTURE, SOCIETY and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS | PSI-3A08 | 30 |
| Would an ideal society have no more crime? Who would be wealthy? Would politics be outlawed? How would we change relationships between the sexes if we could refashion society in a new, better image? Do all utopians secretly wish to impose their views on the rest of humankind? Do the flaws in human nature justify the pessimism of dystopian writers? The module compares selected utopian and dystopian texts produced during the last five centuries. Themes will include property, social control, gender, morality and politics. Another dimension of the module considers the purpose of utopian thinking and the historical role of utopian ideas in social theory and social reform. | ||
| BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS | PSI-3A24 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A08 BETTER WORLDS? UTOPIAS AND DYSTOPIAS and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| BRITISH INTELLIGENCE IN THE 20TH CENTURY - MYTH AND REALITY | HISH3F97C | 30 |
| The study of intelligence history has seen considerable growth over the last 20 years, as a result of new archival evidence and above all a growing realisation that intelligence has for long been the "missing dimension" in historical interpretation of 20th century diplomacy, defence policy and strategy and in the operational history of two world wars. A consideration of the impact of intelligence assessment, its acceptance (or rejection) and its proponents has well known areas of historical analysis, particularly in the period from the 1930s to the Cold War. The aim of this module is to examine the current historiography of this "missing dimension" and assess its impact in the interpretation of British strategic and defence policy and to some extent, in internal and imperial security as well as considering popular and fictional interpretations of the intelligence service. | ||
| BRITISH INTELLIGENCE IN THE 20TH CENTURY - MYTH AND REALITY (CW) | HISH3F96C | 30 |
| The study of intelligence history has seen considerable growth over the last 20 years, as a result of new archival evidence and above all a growing realisation that intelligence has for long been the "missing dimension" in historical interpretation of 20th century diplomacy, defence policy and strategy and in the operational history of two world wars. A consideration of the impact of intelligence assessment, its acceptance (or rejection) and its proponents has well known areas of historical analysis, particularly in the period from the 1930s to the Cold War. The aim of this module is to examine the current historiography of this "missing dimension" and assess its impact in the interpretation of British strategic and defence policy and to some extent, in internal and imperial security as well as considering popular and fictional interpretations of the intelligence service. | ||
| BROADCAST JOURNALISM | PSI-3A51 | 30 |
| Broadcast Journalism provides students with an overview of modern journalism practices and related production processes. The module will enable students to contextualise academic study and criticism of news gathering and presentation processes. Students will collaborate in producing short, broadcast-style news reports, which will be compiled into a magazine format programme (see, for example, BBC’s The One Show). First, students will be trained in the 'art' of journalism; the techniques and practices that are used to create reports. Second, students will be introduced to production skills including cameras, sound and editing. Students will be taught by highly experienced production and news journalists and use broadcast quality equipment. The practical teaching will be reinforced by instruction on the packaging and presentation of news and factual material for broadcasting purposes. | ||
| CAPITALISM AND ITS CRITICS | PSI-3A52 | 30 |
| The aim of this module is to enable students to develop an understanding of capitalism and its political and social impact. Students graduating from the module will be able to demonstrate: - critical understanding of the main theories, models and concepts applied in the analysis of capitalism - critical understanding of normative debates about capitalism - knowledge of the arguments made by advocates and critics of capitalism, with an awareness of their strengths and weaknesses | ||
| CAPITALISM AND ITS CRITICS | PSI-3A54 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A52 Capitalism and its Critics ,and is available only to Exchange, Visiting and Non HUM students. | ||
| CASTLES, CANNON AND CONCRETE: LANDSCAPES OF FORTIFICATION FROM THE MIDDLE AGES TO THE COLD WAR | HISH3K06 | 30 |
| The module examines the landscape of fortification from the origins of the castle to the Cold War, with the aim of assessing the landscape ‘footprint’ of defended sites. The module starts with the castle and an examination of the place of ‘fortified residence’ in medieval war. We will then go on to assess the artillery forts of the Tudors and the archaeology of the English Civil War. Thereafter we will examine the various schemes for national defence up to 1900 before looking at landscapes of ‘Total War’. The latter includes both World Wars and the archaeology of Britain’s nuclear deterrent. | ||
| CHAMBERLAIN, CHURCHILL AND APPEASEMENT, 1935-1940 (CW) | HISH3G13C | 30 |
| Britain's response to the aggression of the fascist powers in the inter-war period has been the subject of fierce debate for decades, and is still hotly disputed between historians. This module examines British foreign policy in the era of 'appeasement'. It will focus on the period between 1935 and 1940, analysing a range of primary source material in detail. It will explore the role of key policy-makers, their critics, and the domestic context in which policy was constructed. | ||
| DEATH, BODY AND DISEASE: THEMES IN MEDICAL & SOCIAL HISTORY | HISH3F91 | 30 |
| This module focuses upon the theory and practice of medicine in the context of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century social history. Topics include healing and science; concepts of 'orthodox' and 'alternative' medicine; interpretations of epidemic disease; the sufferer's agenda; minds, brains and bodies; and changing perceptions of death. We will consider contemporary texts and key contributions to the historiographical literature. It is expected that you will have some background in level 2 medical history course modules. | ||
| DISSERTATION IN HISTORY | HISH3P2Y | 30 |
| This module offers students the opportunity to submit a dissertation of 9,000 words on a topic approved by the School. | ||
| DISSERTATION MODULE | PSI-3A0Y | 30 |
| This dissertation module gives students the opportunity to undertake research on a project of their own choosing under the supervision of a member of staff. The goal is to produce an extended essay of between 8,000-10,000 words, which relates in-depth research on a specialist topic to wider issues in politics, sociology and international studies. A limited number of parliamentary internships and an advertising internship are also available as part of this module. Students are supported by introductory workshops, seminars and tutorials. | ||
| EDWARDIAN BRITAIN | HISH3E56 | 30 |
| This module will examine the 'crisis of Liberal England' which has dominated modern discussion of this period. Themes will include the rise of new liberalism, the tariff reform controversy, women's suffrage, Home Rule for Ireland, the land question, national efficiency and social reform. | ||
| EUROPEAN STUDIES (WITH BRUSSELS INTERNSHIP) | PSI-3A72 | 30 |
| This is an intensive module for ambitious and outstanding PSI students who demonstrate a strong commitment to wanting to work at the international level and who have the necessary language skills. It will provide unique opportunities to gain considerable insights into the working of the EU, to network and follow up job opportunities. Students interested in participating in the module will be asked to apply and selection will be based on merit. The module will involve 10 lectures and 10 seminars during the Spring Semester and a four week period in Brussels over the Easter 2011 UEA vacation break during which students will spend: • two days each week gaining work experience (unpaid) in the Brussels Office Partnership which represents and promotes the interests on the East of England; • one or two days a week on visits to organisations such as the UK Permanent Representation, European Commission, European Parliament, Committee of the Regions, NATO, and third sector bodies. These will include talks on specific issues such as EU trade policy, foreign and security policy, media, audiovisual, and environmental policies and how to obtain a job at the international level. A substantial contribution will be made towards the costs of accommodation in Brussels and for travel to and from Brussels, through an award which the School has received from the UEA Alumni Association. Students taking part will gain an advanced understanding of how the EU functions, lobbying and other organisations, including the role of regional offices, gain relevant work experience and establish a wide range of contacts. They will be able to articulate competing explanations for European integration and the relationship between Britain and the EU, and how the EU and its institutions interact, between themselves, with the member states and with other organisations. • Nationals of a member state of the European Economic Area • Fluency in English and some knowledge of a second language • Third Year PSI students only • Marks to date which indicate a student is heading for a 1st or good 2:1 Degree STUDENTS MUST SEE THE MODULE ORGANISER BEFORE ENROLLING ON THIS MODULE | ||
| IDEOLOGY, CULTURE AND REVOLUTION IN THE POLITICS OF THE MIDDLE EAST | PSI-3A53 | 30 |
| This module seeks to expand the knowledge and understanding of the contemporary politics of the Middle East acquired by students taking PSI-2A46. A main feature of this module is to allow students to delve into the complexities of political thought in the region. The aim of the module is to make students think critically about the ways in which political mobilisation functions in the modern Middle East. For this purpose the module will feature many examples of contemporary political ideologies that have constituted key political frameworks in the politics of the Middle East since the First World War. | ||
| IDEOLOGY, CULTURE AND REVOLUTION IN THE POLITICS OF THE MIDDLE EAST | PSI-3A55 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A53 Ideology, Culture and Revolution in the Politics of the Middle East. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| INTELLECTUALS AND US FOREIGN POLICY, 1880-2008 | PSI-3A48 | 30 |
| This module examines the ideas and influence of nine American foreign policy “intellectuals,” beginning with Alfred Mahan and concluding with Paul Wolfowitz. Why did each “intellectual” strike a particular chord at a particular time? Do individuals matter in the history of US foreign policy? How, and with what consequences, were these ideas translated into policy? This module will explore the origins of key US foreign policy concepts such as isolationism, internationalism, containment and “pre-emptive defence.” Aims of the Module • To introduce students to nine particular strains of US foreign policy ideology. • To encourage students to engage critically with the primary output of these “intellectuals” and to identify their strengths and weaknesses. • To stimulate students to consider whether these ideas have been manifested in policy, and to trace their impact. • To encourage students to develop their own foreign policy philosophy. | ||
| INTELLECTUALS AND US FOREIGN POLICY, 1880-2008 | PSI-3A50 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A48 Intellectuals and US Foreign Policy, 1880-2008. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| LANDSCAPE III FIELD COURSE | HISH3P4Y | 30 |
| The field course builds on the landscape archaeology units to provide forty hours of practical instruction in the field. The field course runs for one week in June, concentrating on the recording and analysis of buildings and historic landscapes. Assessment will take the form of a practical assignment in the field and an extended project. | ||
| MADNESS AND MEDICINE | HISH3F62C | 30 |
| This module considers the practice of medicine in Britain from the eighteenth century to the establishment of the NHS. Themes include the impact of science and professions, the organisation and control aspects of medical and hospital services and healthcare as seen by sufferers and patients. | ||
| MULTICULTURALISM | PSI-3A38 | 30 |
| This module looks at the political implications of the rise of multicultural societies in Europe since the end of World War II. Canadian experience will also be given consideration because of its importance to these debates both as a practical model as well as a source of influential theorists. The aim is to introduce students to a range of contemporary theoretical and practical perspectives on multiculturalism and facilitate critical assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of competing approaches in the light of political variants such as nationalism and alternative forms of liberalism. Theorists under examination would include; Parekh, Kymlicka, Tully, Taylor and Miller as well as major liberal alternative views; Barry, Rawls and Raz. Among the module themes the following will be addressed; group rights; institutional racism, Islamophobia, multicultural federalism, recognition vs toleration. The module will also look at divergent policies adopted within European states (eg: France and Germany) and give attention to the attempts to operationalize multiculturalism in the UK in particular via the Parekh Report. | ||
| MULTICULTURALISM | PSI-3A40 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A38 Multiculturalism, and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| NAPOLEONIC EUROPE | HISH3K01C | 30 |
| This module examines the impact of Napoleonic rule on Europe. Beginning with an examination of the foundations of the French Empire, the unit goes on to examine different aspects of Napoleonic rule: social and economic change; culture and ideology; warfare and the state; collaboration and resistance. It will look comparatively at the experience of France, Italy, Germany and Spain under Napoleon, before assessing the reasons for the downfall of the Napoleonic regime. Material used will include memoirs, literature and other contemporary documents. | ||
| OLIVER CROMWELL AND THE PURITAN WORLD (CW) | HISH3K05C | 30 |
| After forty years of relative obscurity, Oliver Cromwell emerged as a leader in the parliamentary opposition to the king during the English Revolution and became the most powerful man in Britain. This module will explore the life and times of Cromwell and provide a point of entry into political, religious and social change in early modern England from the long Reformation to the Restoration. It will draw from a host of primary sources to enter into Cromwell’s puritan mental world and seek to understand his personal and national aspirations. It will build on this to explore Cromwell’s conquest of Ireland and Scotland and his ambitious plans to undermine Spanish power in the Atlantic. Finally, the module will consider Cromwell’s controversial reception by contemporaries and his diverse representations in popular culture, film and history. | ||
| POLITICAL COMMUNICATION | PSI-3A10 | 30 |
| Political communication occurs on many different levels, and subsequently with different implications and effects. Political communication can be verbal or nonverbal by political actors or about political actors and systems. This module builds upon the Politics and Mass Media unit and explores the forms and impact of political communication. It will be organised around the themes of who communicates, whether that is the state, celebrities, media organisations, the message they communicate, and the effect this has on the receivers of the message. The module will address areas such as spin, globalisation, the role of the new media in order to explore the changing nature of political communication. | ||
| POLITICAL COMMUNICATION | PSI-3A26 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit version of PSI-3A10 POLITICAL COMMUNICATION and is available only to non-HUM and Visiting Students. | ||
| POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE ENVIRONMENT | PSI-3A44 | 30 |
| In an attempt to better understand the environmental dilemmas that confront us in the contemporary world, this module tries to move beyond the limitations of mainstream political and economic analyses. In coming to terms with the threats of environmental degradation and climate change, it tries to reawaken a broader type of ethical, natural and social theorisation that defined an earlier political economy. This is not a module on environmental or resource economics, nor are students expected to have an economics background. Rather, this module tries to understand social production as much more than a series of market relations. It tries to develop a broader socio-cultural understanding of production that "de-naturalises" the way we view and exploit the natural world. | ||
| POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE ENVIRONMENT | PSI-3A46 | 20 |
| This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A44 POLITICAL ECONOMY OF THE ENVIRONMENT and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| POLITICS AND GOVERNANCE WITH INTERNSHIP (WORK BASED EXPERIENCE/EMPLOYABILITY TRAINING PROGRAMME) | PSI-3A80 | 30 |
| The module aims to provide a sound understanding of the ‘nuts and bolts’ of the different levels of government - local, regional, and national, and through the third sector – and how each contributes to democratic pluralism. It will relate public policy and administration taught in other modules to the organisation and structures of governance and also focus on career and job opportunities, and developing specific skills to enhance employability. Field trips and study visits will complement class-based teaching and ‘real world’ experience will be available through a short internship, other work based learning or an employability training programme to enable students to build a network of contacts, increase confidence, experience and the skills necessary to secure graduate employment. | ||
| POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE | PSI-3A23 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A37 POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-HUM Students. | ||
| POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE | PSI-3A37 | 30 |
| The module explores three issues: the role of popular culture in political thought and action, the political organisation of, and response to, popular culture, and the political meanings and interpretations placed upon popular culture. | ||
| POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA | PSI-3A29 | 30 |
| This module will introduce important themes in the American relationship with East Asia, at a time when the Pacific region has assumed great importance. There will be a particular focus on the important historical periods in the American relationship with China and Japan. An understanding of elements of the trajectory of these relationships will be provided by taking a selection of historical subjects for analysis. While this will address the knowledge of history, and of long-term themes, the latter part of the module will consider contemporary political issues. This will require an understanding of the interaction of the United States with Asia, and China and Japan in particular. | ||
| POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA | PSI-3A31 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A29 POWER OVER THE PACIFIC: THE AMERICAN RELATIONSHIP WITH ASIA and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non HUM Students. | ||
| POWERFUL WORDS: EDUCATION, CULTURE AND POLITICS IN THE MIDDLE AGES | HISH3K14 | 30 |
| This module will cover two centuries (1050-1250) during which a cultural revolution took place: the written word, from being remote and confined to a small elite, became conspicuous and increasingly necessary to medieval people - even to those who could not read for themselves. The reasons for this radical change will be explored, as will the new knowledge, the new institutions and the new social groups that the growing role of writing created. The contents of books, as well as their availibility, changed deeply. New Schools (some eventually turning into the first universities) developed, and higher learning moved from monastic to urban settings, training much larger numbers of men. These men were more likely to turn to the secular world for employment after they left the schools, and kings and princes needed the new learned elite to be their courtiers and bureaucrats. The new importance of written words transformed the face of Europe in the realms of religion, culture and politics. | ||
| PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND POLITICS: INFLUENCING THE POLITICAL PROCESS | PSI-3A78 | 30 |
| This module enables students to understand the theory and practice of public affairs, interest intermediation, and the strategies used by interest and advocacy groups to influence the political process. As well as covering the main debates in the academic literature, it draws directly on the experience of practitioners and offers unique insights into this under-studied area of politics. Students graduating from this module will: • be able to demonstrate understanding of the theories, models and concepts of public affairs • be able to demonstrate understanding of the theories, models and concepts applied in the study of interest intermediation and lobbying • be able to demonstrate knowledge of public affairs and lobbying in a variety of political settings • have developed important key skills, including making oral presentations, that will be of use in employment. Indicative outline 1. Introduction. Public affairs: influencing the political process 2. Making policy: processes and decision points 3. Lobbyists, interest and advocacy groups 4. The art of public relations 5. Communications and marketing 6. Public affairs and the media 7. Influencing the political process I: Whitehall 8. Influencing the political process II: Westminster 9. Influencing the political process III: Brussels 10. Influencing the political process IV: Washington 11. Influencing the political process V: local government | ||
| RHETORIC: DEMOCRACY AND THE POLITICS OF PERSUASION | PSI-3A59 | 30 |
| Political activity involves a lot of talking, discussing and debating, speechifying, speaking and listening. In Parliaments, from public platforms and through many forms of media people try to persuade others to see things their way, to take their side and to adopt their proposals. Naturally, therefore, the form, function and implications of different forms of public argument are an important concern of political theorists and scientists. This course will explore some contemporary theorists who, in different ways, help us think through the politics of public speech and persuasion (Arendt, Dryzek, Laclau, Ranciere and others). It will also introduce you to the rhetorical tradition. Rhetoric, according to Aristotle, is “the ability to identify in any given case the available means of persuasion". In studying political rhetoric we learn about the different ways in which political arguments may be made and about how we might try to persuade particular people, about particular things at particular times. | ||
| RUSSIA IN REVOLUTION 1905-1921 | HISH3F18 | 30 |
| This module will look at the upheavals in Russia between 1905 and the introduction of a limited Parliament, and continue by examining the First World War and the downfall of the Romanov monarchy. We will then study the year 1917 in some detail and discuss the causes of the Bolshevik seizure of power. The Civil War and the reasons of the Communist victory will be analysed. The module will place the Russian Revolutions in their historical, political and geographical context and will consider the impact that these events had in the history of the twentieth century. | ||
| THE CLASH OF FUNDAMENTALISMS | PSI-3A57 | 30 |
| This module examines the resurgence of religion as an issue in international relations. IR literature has tended to marginalise religion but the events of 9/11 and the growth of fundamentalism is refocusing attention on this important area. Using case studies this module critically analyses religion and international relations. | ||
| THE CRUSADES | HISH3A61C | 30 |
| This module will consider the history of the Crusades and the Crusader States from 1095 to 1291, covering a broad range of themes, religious , military and social, and taking into consideration the relations between Christians and Moslems in the Holy Land. Particular attention will be paid to primary sources, which are abundant and available in English translation. | ||
| THE NORMAN CONQUEST | HISH3K10 | 30 |
| This module will examine the Old English and Norman states before 1066, the Conquest and the colonisation of the Kingdom of England. Particular attention will be given to the processes by which England was brought under Norman rule, both in the ecclesiastical and secular spheres. The module will be taught through original sources in translation. | ||
| TUDOR REBELLIONS | HISH3K08 | 30 |
| This module looks at the nature of rebellions, riot and popular politics in Tudor England. The early part of the module proceeds in a chronological format; and after that, we analyse rebellion in more thematic terms, individual sessions look at: late medieval rebellion; early Tudor rebellion; The Pilgrimage of Grace of 1536; the 1549 rebellions Kett’s rebellion, popular rebellion in the 1580s and 1590os; gender and ritual; seditious speech; popular culture; Shakespeare, drama and popular protest; food and enclosure rioting. A lot of use is made of extracts of primary material . After we have studied Kett’s Rebellion of 1549, there will be a fieldtrip to examine key sites in Norwich associated with those events. This may possibly end in one of the oldest pubs in Britain; the Adam and Eve. | ||
| TWENTIETH CENTURY SPORT HISTORY | HISH3F76 | 30 |
| This module explores key themes and topics in the history of twentieth century sport, from the founding of the modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896 to the impact which the collapse of socialism had upon sport at the end of the century. Sport’s interaction with empire, nationalism, fascism , socialism and capitalism will be considered, demonstrating that the political history and international relations of the century are deeply entwined with sport. A range of examples are examined, from Franco’s Spain to the superpower competition of the Cold War. As an aspect of social history, issues of gender, race and disability are inseparable from this topic, as are the harnessing and exploitation of sport as a means of war or reconciliation at various periods throughout the century. | ||
| TYRANNY AND REVOLUTION: THE AGE OF RICHARD II | HISH3K17 | 30 |
| This module explores the ‘Age of Richard II’ (1377-99) as revealed in an exceptionally-rich corpus of primary sources. Richard’s was a tumultuous reign. To many contemporaries it seemed as if the world was turning upside down as those who traditionally wielded power in English society – the king, the church and the aristocracy – faced unprecedented challenges to their authority. Through weekly seminar discussions, members of the class will learn to assess the significance of the reign based on a close reading of selected texts. Two sources in particular will provide the documentary spine of the course: the ‘Parliament Rolls of medieval England’ (recently re-edited in translation and freely available online) and the great chronicle of Thomas Walsingham, a monk of St Albans and perhaps England’s foremost chronicler of the period. We will also explore a range of other records and narratives as well as the verse of some of England’s most famous medieval poets, many of whom (notably Geoffrey Chaucer) were closely connected to the court of Richard II. The module falls into two parts. Part 1 investigates the political developments from the dying days of Edward III through the Peasant’s revolt (1381) to Richard II’s final years of ‘tyranny’ (1397-9). Part two adopts a thematic approach. Topics here include parliament, political society, heresy, the Hundred Years War, chivalry and courtliness. We conclude by examining the revolution of 1399, which resulted in Richard’s deposition and death. | ||
| VICTORIAN UNDERWORLDS | HISH3H12 | 30 |
| This module introduces students to the darker side of life in Victorian Britain. Though this was undoubtedly a period of economic prosperity, not everyone shared in the gains. In this module we shall look at those who, for reasons of poverty or ‘deviance’ were confined to the margins. Topics will include the poor, the criminal and insane, prostitution, drink, child-workers, the workhouse, the London Irish, homosexuality and the Oscar Wilde case. By looking at the margins and the misfits, we will seek to gain a deeper understanding if British society in the nineteenth century. | ||
| WE THE PEOPLE? PUBLICS, CROWDS AND DEMOCRACY | PSI-3A84 | 30 |
| This module examines the position of mass publics and collectives in democratic society, taking into consideration models of collective behaviour and some of the available empirical evidence. The module is all about the relationship between the individual and the group: how does that relationship work in different contexts, and what are the consequences for the democratic character of governance and the rationality or otherwise of collective decisions? Liberal theory has an ambiguous attitude to the ‘public’, portraying it as a source of legitimacy but also as a threatening and unreasoning force. We explore these issues in a variety of contexts: mass political movements, public opinion surveys, un-coordinated mass action such as moral panics and health scares, arts prize juries and political executives. We also look at whether mass publics can be manipulated and steered by the rhetoric of ‘leaders’ and by biases in the information environment. | ||
| WE THE PEOPLE? PUBLICS, CROWDS AND DEMOCRACY | PSI-3A86 | 20 |
| IN TAKING THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT TAKE PSI-3A84. This module is a 20 credit version of PSI-3A84 We the People? Publics, Crowds and Democracy. THIS 20 CREDIT VERSION IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING, EXCHANGE AND NON-HUM STUDENTS. | ||
| WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT | PSI-3A01 | 30 |
| This Level 3 module examines in depth the works of selected thinkers who are seminal to the Western tradition of political thought, including Plato, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau and Marx. Their work will also be compared thematically, with a focus on ideas such as political obligation, authority, the state and freedom. The module will be based on the study and interpretation of key texts and will enable students to develop skills of textual analysis and critique. | ||
| WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT | PSI-3A17 | 20 |
| This module is a 20-credit coursework-only version of PSI-3A01 WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT and is available only to Visiting, Exchange and Non-Hum Students. | ||
| WORKING IN THE HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT | HISH3H1Y | 30 |
| This module will provide students with the opportunity to undertake a work placement with an employer working in the historic environment sector. Each placement will last for six to eight weeks and will focus on a specific project relating to landscape history or archaeology. Placements must be undertaken between June and December, and will be followed up by a series of practical seminars in the spring semester. Students may arrange their own work placements but this must be approved in advance by the module organisers. Project based placements will be agreed in advance with the host organisations. Students will then have to ‘apply’ for the placement of their choice, and will attend an informal interview with the relevant organisation before their choice of placement is confirmed. A list of provisional placements and projects will be available in Spring 2011. Please note that enrolment on this module will only be confirmed after a short interview with the module organisers. | ||
| YOUTH IN MODERN EUROPE | HISH3J04C | 30 |
| The importance of youth as a driving force for social change has been recognised by many historians. Young people were often at the forefront wherever revolutions took place, wars were fought and tensions in society erupted. However, the historical study of youth is still a relatively young discipline. The module uses ‘youth’ as a prism to study key themes in 20th century European history, such as the experience of war, life under dictatorship and the longue durée of social change. We shall examine the diverse experience of youth in Western and Eastern Europe during war and peace times, including the Communist and Nazi state-sponsored youth systems, and also the way in which generational experience and conflicts became underlying forces for social and political change. The module employs a strong comparative approach and countries studied include France, Britain, the Soviet Union, West and East Germany, Poland, Hungary and Czechoslovakia. The seminars will be accompanied by several film screenings. | ||
Disclaimer
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules and regular (five-yearly) review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff or sabbatical leave. Where this is the case, the University will endeavour to inform students.
Entry Requirements
- Qualification:
- BA (Hons)
- A Level:
- AAB including B in History
- International Baccalaureate:
- 33 points including 5 in Higher Level History
- Scottish Highers:
- At least one Advanced Higher preferred in addition to Highers
- Scottish Advanced Highers:
- AAB including Grade B in History
- Irish Leaving Certificate:
- AAAABB including grade B in History
- Access Course:
- Please contact the university for further information
- HND:
- Please contact the university for further information
- European Baccalaureate:
- 80% including History
Students for whom English is a Foreign language
We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in Reading and Writing with no less than 5.5 in any component)
- TOEFL: Internet-based score of 88 overall (minimum 20 in Reading and Speaking components, 19 in Writing component and 17 in Listening components.
- PTE: 62 overall (minimum 55 in Reading and Writing components with no less than 51 in any component).
If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
Interviews
The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.
Students will have the opportunity to meet with an academic on a Visit Day in order to gain a deeper insight into the course(s) you have applied for.
Gap Year
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.
We also welcome applications for deferred entry, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.
Special Entry Requirements
Intakes
The School's annual intake is in September of each year.
Alternative Qualifications
If you have alternative qualifications that have not been mentioned above, then please contact university directly for further information.
GCSE Offer
Students are required have GCSE Mathematics and GCSE English Language at Grade C or above.
Assessment
For the majority of candidates the most important factors in assessing the application will be past and future achievement in examinations, academic interest in the subject being applied for, personal interest and extra-curricular activities and the confidential reference.
We consider applicants as individuals and accept students from a very wide range of educational backgrounds and spend time considering your application in order to reach an informed decision relating to your application. Typical offers are indicated above. Please note, there may be additional subject entry requirements specific to individual degree courses.
Fees and Funding
University Fees and Financial Support: UK/EU Students
Further information on fees and funding for 2012 can be found here
University Fees and Financial Support: International Students
The University will be charging International students £11,700.00 for all full time School of History undergraduate programmes which start in 2012.
Please click to access further information about fees and funding for International students.
Applications need to be made via the Universities Colleges and Admissions Services (UCAS), using the UCAS Apply option.
UCAS Apply is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time Undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom. It is made up of different sections that you need to complete. Your application does not have to be completed all at once. The system allows you to leave a section partially completed so you can return to it later and add to or edit any information you have entered. Once your application is complete, it must be sent to UCAS so that they can process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The UCAS code name and number for the University of East Anglia is EANGL E14.
Further Information
If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances with the Admissions Office prior to applying please do contact us:
Undergraduate Admissions Office (History)
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk
Please click here to register your details online via our Online Enquiry Form.
International candidates are also actively encouraged to access the University's International section of our website.


