American Political Culture (T7059EB)
15 credits, Level 4
Spring teaching
American political culture is rooted in a shared set of ideals, including:
- liberty
- equality
- social justice
- democracy
- individualism.
These are not always realised in practice, and this module will allow you to explore how electoral politics and the democratic process have been promoted and challenged in American culture.
Drawing on a wide range of American Studies methodologies and theories, and taking a cultural-historical approach, you’ll focus on the subjective side of American politics, examining debates around:
- memory
- militarism
- race
- gender
- religion
- nativism
- populism
- identity.
You’ll look at how they have been expressed in beliefs, attitudes and cultural practice from the 1750s to the age of Trump.
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.
We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
Courses
This module is offered on the following courses: