Most states claim to be democratic. This module looks at the theory of democracy, including foundational questions about political inclusion, participation, and equality. As a result, students will develop a greater understanding of what democracy requires and why we might value it, an understanding that will enable them to reflect critically on claims about democracy.
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
Exact contents vary from year to year, but the module will cover a range of issues in democratic theory. Indicative examples include (i) who should be given the vote, (ii) arguments for and against equal votes, (iii) whether voting should be compulsory, (iv) different voting systems, (v) constitutional limits, and (vi) forms of representation.
30 hours of classroom instruction, split between lectures and seminars. The expectation is that these will be in-person (on campus), though it may be necessary to deliver some sessions online.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Independent Study | 120 |
| Teaching | 30 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Beckman, Ludvig (2009). The Frontiers of Democracy: The Right to Vote and its Limits. Palgrave Macmillan.
Beitz, Charles (1990). Political Equality: An Essay in Democratic Theory. Princeton University Press.
Pitkin, Hanna (1967). The Concept of Representation. University of California Press.
Lively, Jack (1975). Democracy. Blackwells.
Pateman, Carole (1970). Participation and Democratic Theory. Cambridge University Press.
McGann, Anthony (2006). The Logic of Democracy: Reconciling Equality, Deliberation, and Minority Protection. University of Michigan Press.
Riker, William (1982). Liberalism Against Populism: A Confrontation between the Theory of Democracy and the Theory of Social Choice. Waveland Press.
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework | 50% |
| Research project | 50% |
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework assignment(s) | 100% |
Repeat type: Internal & External