module specification

GI4059 - After Empire: Regions and Powers in World Politics (2024/25)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2024/25
Module title After Empire: Regions and Powers in World Politics
Module level Certificate (04)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Social Sciences and Professions
Total study hours 150
 
30 hours Assessment Preparation / Delivery
84 hours Guided independent study
36 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 100%   Portfolio (2000 words)
Running in 2024/25

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Spring semester North Thursday Afternoon

Module summary

In historical perspective, the period since the end of World War II is very distinctive. Following the process of decolonisation, nearly every person in the world today resides in a sovereign state, in contrast to previous eras when different forms of political community coexisted. However, despite the uniformity of contemporary world politics, there are great variations across different regions, especially regarding the nature and dynamics of peace and conflict.

On this module you will explore the process of the dissolution of the European empires and examine the security dynamics left in their wake, focusing on the period since 1945. Through the study of key regions of the world, such as the Middle East, sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and South Asia, you will learn about the patterns of conflict which have emerged and how they have evolved, as well as identifying the key differences between security dynamics across the regions, concerning regional powers and the involvement of the global powers. You will also learn about the legacies of empire among the former imperial powers of Europe, which have come to form one of the more peaceful regions in the world.

Prior learning requirements

None. Available for Study Abroad.

Syllabus

The module examines the breakdown of the former European empires and the patterns of conflict which they left in their wake across the world (LO1, 2). This will be followed by the exploration of the origin, nature and evolution of the security dynamics of various regions, such as the Middle East, South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and Europe (LO2, 3).

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

Each week teaching will consist of a two-hour combined lecture and workshop followed by a one-hour seminar. Each lecture/workshop will comprise an interactive lecture followed by an activity undertaken by small groups, with the result of these activities fed back in a plenary session towards the end of the session. The seminars will involve small group discussions, debates and group work. Reflective and independent learning will be encouraged through the regular interactive lectures, workshops and seminar discussions.

The module makes extensive use of blended learning, with full use of the dedicated Weblearn site for the module and the online Reading List.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

1. Understand the process of decolonisation following the end of the Second World War and its impact on world politics.
2. Explain the emergence and evolution of security dynamics in different regions of the world.
3. Compare and contrast the nature and sources of peace and conflict across various regions of the international system.

Bibliography