Department of European Studies & Modern Languages, Unit Catalogue 2010/11 |
EU20784: Theories of democracy |
 Credits:
| 6 |
| Level:
| Intermediate |
| Period: | This unit is available in... |
| Semester 2 |
| Assessment:
| CW33ES67 |
| Supplementary Assessment: | Supplementary assessment information not currently available (this will be added shortly) |
| Requisites:
| Before taking this unit you must take EU20385 |
| Description:
| Aims: This unit provides an introduction to modern democratic theory and an overview of the major models of democracy. The main aims are: * to introduce students to the cornerstones of thinking about democracy; * to explore the major models of democracy which have evolved since Athenian democracy; * to provide a foundation for the critical understanding and discussion of challenges to democratic structures at national, European and international level. Learning Outcomes: Students who complete the unit successfully will be able to demonstrate: * a clear grasp of the key theories of democracy embedded in their historical context; * familiarity with theoretical arguments surrounding the ideas and concepts underpinning various models of democracy; * ability to understand and contribute to contemporary debates about the advantages and drawbacks of democratic systems. Skills: Skills in critical analysis, conceptual thinking, precision in the use of written and spoken academic discourse, exercise of independent judgement, reasoned argument, teamwork and the planning/conduct/reporting of non-quantitative research are taught and assessed in this unit. Content: * Classical Models of Democracy * Republicanism and Liberalism * Democratic Elitism and Participative Democracy * Pluralism and Corporatism * Deliberative Democracy * Contemporary challenges to democracy Key text: David Held, Models of Democracy 3rd edn (Polity Press, 2006). |