Module: POL6007-20 Critical Approaches to World Politics

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: 

Module Tutor Contact Details: 

1. Brief description and aims of module:

Traditional theories of politics and international relations still dominate how we understand the world today. Yet, many of the concepts underpinning these approaches have their roots in antiquity and no longer reflect the world we live in. This course introduces the key debates, scholars and texts of critical theory that bear on the study of politics and international relations. From Marxism to Queer theory, it explores several key concepts and analytical approaches in depth, applying them to critique traditional power structures in contemporary society. The module uses a case study approach to introduce each theory and its relation to global events, structures and practices.

By completing this module, students will be able to:

• Understand core knowledge, concepts, and vocabularies of critical approaches to politics and international relations

• Evaluate systems in the contemporary world through the knowledge and application of critical theory

• Produce a critical analysis of an identified power structure and communicate this in written and oral form to a specified audience.

2. Outline syllabus:

The module uses a case study approach to explore the implications of issues and events in world politics from different critical perspectives. It explores several traditions of critical theory, such as the Frankfurt School; Copenhagen school; Marxism; postcolonial theory; feminist theory; gender theory; queer theory; critical race theory; poststructuralism; postmodernism. 

A contemporary selection of case studies is used to explore these theories and the implications of their real-world application. Case studies reflect contemporary issues in world politics and may reflect topics including:

• Migration and climate change

• Identity, populism and nationalism

• Global governance

• Financial crisis

• Structural inequality and poverty

• Growth and wealth

• Development and post-development

• Violence and conflict

3. Teaching and learning activities:

This module is taught through a combination of mini-lectures, workshops, seminars and small-group discussions. In addition, we seek opportunities for field trips and research visits.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Forum Post and Response (1,500 words equivalent)

• % Weighting: 30%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Report (3,000 words equivalent)

• % Weighting: 70%