Britain, like many other western democracies, has undergone significant political change in recent years. Traditional institutions have been questioned and challenged, territorial pressures have increased, patterns of citizen participation have changed, and voters’ electoral choices and patterns of party support have shifted. These changes raise important questions about the nature and effectiveness of Britain’s political system, and about the nature and role of citizens’ engagement with that system. This module considers how we should understand the British political system in a period of change. It focuses on the reasons for political change, the nature of those changes and their implications for effective policy-making and democracy. These issues are explored in relation to citizens’ place within the political system, the territorial balance of power within Britain, and the operation and effectiveness of core political institutions. By focusing on changes in the political system and on the challenges posed to existing institutions and political practices, the module enhances your analytical skills in evaluating some of the key ‘pressure points’ facing contemporary democracies.
Lecture 16, Seminar 8, Workshop 8
Short Writing Piece. Assessment Details: 1,000 Words Blog Post worth 30%.
Extended Writing. Assessment Details: 2,000 Words Policy Briefing worth 70%. This Assessment is Pass Compulsory.
Reassessment Method: Like for like
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1) Identify and describe key forms of change and stability within the British political system in recent years.
2) Evaluate and explain the causes of these changes, and thus key sources of 'stress' on the British political system.
3) Identify and interpret the implications of changes in the British political system for decision-making and the quality of democracy.
4) Evaluate the effectiveness of different political institutions and arrangements, and evaluate the merits of different proposals for political reform.
5) Evaluate the nature and effectiveness of the British political system by comparing it with political systems in other countries.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
