Politics
Political and Social Change in Contemporary Europe
Module code: L2091
Level 5
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Essay, Coursework
On this module, you’ll examine the major social changes in Western Europe since 1945, and in post-communist European countries since the collapse of communism.
Using the social scientist’s idea of ‘cleavages’ you’ll explore divisions in society such as:
- religion
- class
- gender
- ethnicity.
You’ll then analyse their influence on political behaviour.
The module also covers factors driving social change and political affiliation, including:
- nationalism
- populism
- regionalism
- postmaterialism.
You’ll also explore how recent demographic trends, such as declining birth rates and ageing populations, impact social and political behaviour.
Although grounded in social science, this module is taught in an accessible way for students from any discipline.
Module learning outcomes
- To have developed a critical approach to interpreting empirical material relating to political and social change in contemporary Europe
- To have developed an understanding of the evolution of European societies and the impact on political behaviour.
- To have developed the ability to present an argument in response to a specific question using relevant literature relating to the transformation of European societies.