Module overview
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.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Knowledge and understanding of fundamental issues in democratic theory, including the meaning and justification of political equality and participation
- The ability to evaluate both proposed democratic ideals and the extent to which certain institutions realise them
Syllabus
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.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
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 |
|---|---|
| Teaching | 30 |
| Independent Study | 120 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Riker, William (1982). Liberalism Against Populism: A Confrontation between the Theory of Democracy and the Theory of Social Choice. Waveland Press.
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.
McGann, Anthony (2006). The Logic of Democracy: Reconciling Equality, Deliberation, and Minority Protection. University of Michigan Press.
Pateman, Carole (1970). Participation and Democratic Theory. Cambridge University Press.
Beckman, Ludvig (2009). The Frontiers of Democracy: The Right to Vote and its Limits. Palgrave Macmillan.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework | 50% |
| Research project | 50% |
Referral
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 Information
Repeat type: Internal & External