Module: POL4003-20 Protest and Persuasion

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Faith Binckes

Module Tutor Contact Details: f.binckes@bathspa.ac.uk 

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Learning how to use your voice – whether you are contributing to a debate, constructing an argument, or responding to others’ – not only lies at the hear of a higher education; it is also vital for ensuring the exchange of ideas and values that sustains any democratic society by challenging it to become ever more democratic.

Focusing on writers, philosophers and activists seeking to change the world, this module aims to teach you how to develop an argument by studying and analysing inspiring examples. In order to develop your own right to speak we will study figures drawn from a variety of cultures, religions, histories, genders, sexualities, as well as a range of different struggles – from civil rights and feminism to environmental activism, LGBTQ+ and Black Lives Matter. Through reading a selection of sources, including literary texts, historical documents and philosophical writings, you will learn how to evaluate and engage critically with arguments for change, to explore the contexts and motivations of those aiming to challenge the status quo, and to consider counter-arguments.

The aim of this module is to help you become more confident in your own ‘voice’ and more vigilant in your critical interrogation of received opinion; to be prepared to challenge ‘authoritative’ opinion and to listen to ‘marginalised’ voices.

2.Outline syllabus

This is an indicative weekly structure:

• Week 1 – Introduction

• Weeks 2-3 – Arguments about Race

• Weeks 4-6 – Arguments about Gender and Sexuality

• Weeks 7-8 – Arguments about Class and Power

• Weeks 9-10 – Arguments about Environment

• Weeks 11-12 – Arguments about Knowledge

• Weeks 13 – Concluding arguments

Each topic will draw on a series of ‘set texts’ that will comprise extracts short enough to engage with in class, drawn from a range of genres: poems, literary texts, constitutional documents, philosophical arguments, sermons, manifestos, etc.

3.Teaching and learning activities

Weekly 4-hour teaching will consist of a combination of

● Lectures

● Seminars

● Small-group ‘synthesis’ tutorials

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Coursework

• Description: Portfolio (4,000 words)

• % Weighting: 100%