This module reviews and evaluates the significance of religion in global politics and international relations and its intersection with domestic politics and public policy. Whilst recent analysis of religion and politics has generally focussed principally on Islam, this module recognizes the role of the major religions (defined as those faiths with a ‘world-wide’ presence) in the shaping of the politics of nation-states and the development of the international system. The module will survey the approach to religion adopted by major theories of international relations and discuss their most relevant insights, in order to understand contemporary political challenges, which include those of democratization, political development, political violence, gender, the environment, economic affairs, humanitarian intervention, globalization and other concerns that can intersect both with religious groups and ideas. The module will also look at the role of religion in various aspects of politics: institutions and structures, political parties, civil society and social movements, and economic development.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Evaluate the impact of religion and religious affairs in global geopolitics and illustrate this significance through the analysis of specific case studies
Demonstrate good critical understanding of key concepts, theories and principles of international relations and sociology as they relate to the study of religion in today’s world
Explain and elucidate the perspectives of a variety of world faiths on key issues including peace, violence and terror; democratization; economic and social development; gender; and globalisation
Analyse and assess recent scholarship in this field arising from a variety of disciplinary contexts
Assessment
28794-03 : 1000 word Critical Review of Policy Brief : Coursework (25%)
28794-04 : 2500 word Essay : Coursework (75%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment:
One 1000-word Critical Review (25%);
AND
One x 2,500-word essay (75%).
Reassessment:
As above. Resit failed component if required to pass the module overall.