n/a

The module uses the example of the UK to analyse the concept of democracy and key components of liberal democracy. It examines the different electoral systems used in the UK and discusses different theories of why people vote in a particular way. Moreover, the module analyses the UK’s government and interaction between different political actors, such as the UK Parliament and Prime Minister as well as devolution and the contested nature of the territorial division of power in the UK. In the last part, the module introduces the basic features of the European Union and examines the role of the UK in the EU as well as the referendum on EU membership.

Upon completion of this module you will be able to:
LO1: Develop an insight into the meaning of fundamental political concepts
LO2: Comprehend the electoral systems used in Britain and theories for explaining voting behaviour
LO3: Critically examine the main features of the British political system
LO4: Understand the contested nature of the territorial division of power in the UK
LO5: Comprehend the basic features of the European Union and the UK’s role in the EU
LO6: Demonstrate a development of skills in critical thinking and forming/communicating arguments.