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2008/09 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

PIED2610 Nationalism in the Modern World

20 creditsClass Size: 46

Module manager: Dr John Schwartzmantel
Email: J.J.Schwartzmantel@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2008/09

This module is approved as an Elective

Module summary

This module should be of interest to all those who are concerned with the appeal of nationalism and national identity in modern politics, and the question of whether nationalism has been a benign force or a disastrous one ending up in racism and 'ethnic cleansing'. The module is theoretical in its approach; it concentrates on the political theory of nationalism, looking at nationalism as an ideology, and the different forms it has taken. It also investigates modern theories of nationalism which seek to explain the origins of nations and nationalism, and the significance of national identity. It examines the question of whether nationalism remains a powerful force in modern politics, or whether it has been superseded by more global or supra-national forms of identity. The module discusses the historical development of nationalism from the democratic nationalism of the early 19th century down to the links of nationalism with fascism, racism and the recent resurgence of nationalism in Eastern and Central Europe. Can nationalism be 'tamed' and can it take democratic and civic forms, or is it inevitably associated with the far right? For further information see the School of Politics and International Studies website. If you cannot find the answer to your question then email J.J.Schwarzmantel@leeds.ac.uk

Objectives

To understand the origins and development of nationalism as a powerful force in modern politics. Through a dispassionate study of the different forms nationalism has taken and its contemporary manifestations, the module seeks to answer the question: what is the appeal of nationalism? Is the age of nationalism coming to an end, or has it re-emerged with new force in the contemporary world?

Syllabus

The module is roughly divided into two sections, both aiming to analyse nationalism through the tools of social science within a historical framework. The first part is theoretical, looking at various approaches to the study of nationalism, and at the historical development of nationalism as a political doctrine. The second part covers some case-studies of nationalist movements, looking at nationalism in particular areas of the world. The conclusion seeks to evaluate the future of the nationalist idea, and to assess the impact of nationalism on the modern world.

Teaching methods

Delivery typeNumberLength hoursStudent hours
Lecture111.0011.00
Seminar111.0011.00
Private study hours178.00
Total Contact hours22.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)200.00

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

One non-assessed essay of 2500-3000 words

Methods of assessment


Coursework
Assessment typeNotes% of formal assessment
Essay3,000 words50.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)50.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated


Exams
Exam typeExam duration% of formal assessment
Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc)2 hr 00 mins50.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)50.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 03/04/2009

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