Syllabus

Processes of Democracy and Autocracy

Code
ASK22J
Points
7.5 Credits
Level
Second Cycle
School
School of Culture and Society
Subject field
Political Science (SKA)
Group of Subjects
Political Science
Disciplinary Domain
Social Science, 100%
This course can be included in the following main field(s) of study
Political Science1
Progression indicator within (each) main field of study
1A1N
Approved
Approved, 15 November 2018.
This syllabus is valid from 02 September 2019.
Revised
Revised, 20 August 2019.
Revision is valid from 20 August 2019.
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Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, students shall be able to:

  • demonstrate in depth knowledge about the various meanings of the concept of democracy and how it has evolved over time
  • problematise and critically analyse classic and current theories on democratisation and a return to authoritarian rule
  • demonstrate understanding of the results and methodological approaches in the empirical research field of democratisation
  • independently apply theoretical approaches of democratisation in order to analyse the level of democracy and its democratic development 
  • independently formulate a research problem within the field of democracy and democratisation, and also choose a method suitable for the problem.

Course Content

The course focuses on central theoretical approaches related to the concept of democracy. Democratisation and a return to authoritarian rule are treated with help from approaches of democratic theory. Central methodological approaches and empirical results are introduced and problematised. The student is taught how to critically review both results and applied methods as well as how to independently formulate scientific problems, and finally how to choose, while giving reason for choosing, a scientific method suitable for the problem.

Assessment

Written assignments and active participation in seminars.

Forms of Study

Lectures and obligatory seminars

Grades

The Swedish grades A–F.

Reporting of grades:

  • Written assignments and seminars, 7,5 credits

Prerequisites

  • A minimum of 180 credits on first cycle, including 90 credits in Political Science, Sociology, International Relations, Human Rights or Peace and Conflict Studies, including a minimum of 7,5 credits research method with a focus on Social Science and English 6

Other Information

The course is part of the master’s programme Democracy, Citizenship and Change.