Sociology and Criminology

Riots, Strikes, Revolts

Module code: L2903B
Level 6
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Workshop
Assessment modes: Portfolio

On this module, you’ll explore riots and uprisings from a sociological and criminological perspective. You’ll cover:

• specific uprisings and the phenomenon of uprisings in general
• the significance of uprisings in popular culture
• law enforcement responses.

You’ll use specific case studies from the 20th and 21st centuries, highlighting patterns and key aspects of their development and policing. Topics include:

• the material conditions of uprisings
• the role of policing and law enforcement
• global patterns in revolts, uprisings and riots
• the relevance of structural inequalities
• the significance of race, gender, class and sexuality in specific riots.

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of criminological and sociological theories relating to riots, protest, and their policing.
• Analytically apply criminological theory and research findings to current debates around riot control and riots.
• Employ macro and micro scales of analysis, from global patterns in uprising and their policing to specific cases and events, and appreciate the connections between them,
• Critically evaluate key policy and law enforcement responses to uprisings in the UK and globally.