Neither citizenship nor democracy is easy or uncontested these days. What does citizenship actually mean - and entail? It used to be that in many countries of the west liberal democracy was something to be taken largely for granted; now it is clearly struggling, its processes and norms eroded and disputed. The course will explore both classic and contemporary debates and questions, as well as proposals for reform.

10 weekly sessions of 2 hours each

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Assessment components: 

(a) essay of 2,000 words (40%)

(b) exam (50%);

(c) Seminar contributions, including a presentation (10%).

Seminar presentation:

Students unable to give their presentation will be offered a second opportunity, though this may involve recording their presentation if class time is not available.

To allow students to explore in depth key issues in democratic theory and the theory and practice of citizenship. The course firstly examines classical and modern approaches to democratic theory, and secondly examines the theory and practice of citizenship.. They may otherwise elect to focus on contemporary debates related to citizenship and democracy.

By the end of this programme students will be able to:

■ Critically appreciate the varieties of classic and current democratic theory - republican, elitist, participatory and deliberative.

■ Understand and critically assess classic and current models of citizenship.

■ Articulate the link between democracy and issues of citizenship.

■ Critically evaluate policy strategies designed to increase citizen engagement.

■ Critically assess proposed democratic reforms

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Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.