This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
Dictatorships are rising around the world. According to the Varieties of Democracy Institute, in 2022 just over one quarter of the world's population were living in a full democracy, a number that has fallen dramatically in the 21st century. But what is dictatorship, autocracy, authoritarianism? In this module we will analyse the different forms that non-democratic rule takes. We will examine the rise of these kinds of regimes and their leaders, as well as the support and the resistance of their citizens. We will explore how dictatorships persist, why they fall, and the role of the international community. The module will explore case studies of dictatorship from China to Iraq, and draw on films, documentaries, books, and cutting-edge political science studies.
Private Study: 128
Contact Hours: 22
Total: 150
Optional to the following courses:
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations (Bidiplôme)
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Placement Year
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Foundation Year
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Year in Continental Europe or North America
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Language
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Year in Asia-Pacific
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with Quantitative Research
• BA (Hons) Economics and Politics
• BA (Hons) History and Politics
• BA (Hons) Philosophy and Politics
• BA (Hons) Sociology and Politics
• LLB (Hons) Law and Politics
Also available as an elective module and to short term credit students
Main assessment methods
Seminar Reading Response (1000 words) (30%)
Research Paper (3000 words) (70%)
Reassessment methods
100% coursework
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Identify and assess different kinds of authoritarian regimes and how they have been studied in political science
2 Demonstrate a detailed understanding of the origins of authoritarian regimes and the rise of dictators
3 Identify, describe and evaluate patterns of popular support and resistance within authoritarian regimes
4 Understand and evaluate the means and conditions by which authoritarian regimes retain or lose power
6 Critically evaluate the policies of the international community towards authoritarian regimes and their demise
7 Critically evaluate sources of evidence about the politics and society of authoritarian regimes.
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.
